Shetland cruise industry set for another bumper year

From small expedition vessels to larger cruise liners, Shetland’s growing presence on Northern Europe cruise itineraries reflects its increasing appeal to both travellers and cruise operators. And while the numbers are impressive, it’s what visitors experience on arrival that makes Shetland stand out.

Most cruise visitors arrive straight into Lerwick – a working harbour that sits just minutes from the town centre. This isn’t a purpose-built terminal set apart from local life. Instead, ships berth alongside a port that also supports fishing boats, offshore energy vessels and freight services. It gives visitors an immediate sense of place – a reminder that Shetland’s connection to the sea is still very much alive.

For cruise operators, that same environment brings reliability and flexibility, backed by a harbour that handles thousands of vessel movements each year.

Shetland’s cruise industry is growing in a way that balances capacity with quality. Ongoing harbour improvements, including dredging and enhanced access to berths, are allowing more ships – particularly mid-sized and expedition cruise vessels – to visit comfortably.

Highlights ahead for the 2026 season will include inaugural calls from ultra-luxury operators Seadream Yacht Club and Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection. The largest vessel to call will be MSC Virtuosa, arriving on 20 July at 181,000 gross tonnes.

Onshore, visitors benefit from an expanding range of experiences. Local guides, organised tours and welcome teams help passengers explore Shetland’s landscapes, wildlife and heritage, even within a short port call.

"Shetland’s reputation as a must-visit destination continues to grow, with an increasing number of local providers offering unique experiences for our cruise visitors," said Lerwick Port Authority Cruise and Marketing Manager Melanie Henderson. "This growth is not only beneficial for our tourism sector but also for the wider local economy, supporting businesses across Shetland."

A wider network of ports

While Lerwick remains the main cruise gateway, there is growing interest in a wider network of ports across Shetland. Six additional locations – Fair Isle, Foula, Scalloway, Papa Stour, Baltasound and Fetlar – are now approved to receive cruise vessels, offering new opportunities for smaller ships and expedition-style itineraries.

Together, these ports are already attracting around 60 cruise calls per year, with consistent demand from operators specialising in adventure and expedition travel. This segment, typically carrying smaller groups, is a natural fit for Shetland, allowing visitors to experience more rural communities, landscapes and wildlife in a low-impact way.

Scalloway, in particular, offers the potential for vessels to come alongside, adding further flexibility for operators looking to diversify their itineraries within Shetland.