With the dramatic Cromarty Firth spreading out to the north and the Highland capital of Inverness just down the road, Invergordon cruise port is more than just a place to disembark, it’s a gateway to Scotland’s most legendary landscapes. This bustling port welcomes some of the largest cruise liners in the world and has rapidly grown into Scotland’s largest cruise port. In 2019 over 167 000 passengers visited on 109 ship calls, and the numbers continue to rise as new itineraries are announced.

Whether you want to chase Nessie along Loch Ness, wander through romantic castles or simply explore Invergordon itself, this guide will help you maximise your precious hours ashore. It explains transport options, suggests curated day‑trip itineraries, answers common questions and even highlights a chauffeur service to the Highland Games (for those seeking a truly bespoke experience). Let’s plan an unforgettable Highland adventure.

Invergordon Cruise Port at a Glance

Location & Access: Invergordon sits on the northern shore of the Cromarty Firth, about 24 miles (40 km) north of Inverness. The port is connected to the A9 road of  Scotland’s arterial route north, so travel into the Highlands is straightforward. Cruise ships berth at deep‑water quays operated by the Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF). The cruise season runs from April to late November and vessels range from boutique expedition ships to giants like MSC Meraviglia, which alone brought 5 700 guests.

Facilities: The port provides a modern cruise terminal with tourist information, craft stalls, toilets and shuttle services. Many tours begin right at the pier, and local taxis wait outside the security area. There is no official hop‑on hop‑off bus yet, but pre‑arranged tours and private vehicles can drop and collect passengers at designated points in town. For independent travellers, Invergordon’s railway station is about a 10‑minute walk from the dock; trains to Inverness run several times daily.

Why It Matters: Passengers often dock at dawn and leave before sunset. Planning ahead ensures you make the most of your day, whether you’re heading to iconic attractions like Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, exploring the East coast castles or simply soaking up small‑town Scottish life. The port’s proximity to Inverness and the North Coast 500 route makes day trips efficient.

Getting from Invergordon Cruise Port to the Highlands

By Shuttle or Taxi

Most cruise lines arrange shuttle buses into Invergordon town; from there you can walk to the railway station or catch a taxi. Metered taxis and pre‑booked cars line up by the terminal on busy days. The journey from Invergordon to Inverness takes about 30 minutes via the A9. If you intend to tour multiple sites in one day or travel beyond Inverness, consider hiring a private driver. A handful of local companies offer chauffeur‑driven vehicles, and some also provide exclusive transfers to events like the Highland Games, ideal if you plan to combine your cruise with the Braemar Gathering or Inverness Highland Games. Book well in advance, as vehicles sell out during peak months.

By Rail

Invergordon’s small station sits on the Far North Line linking Inverness to Thurso and Wick. Trains to Inverness depart every few hours, taking around 45 minutes. From Inverness, connections to Aberdeen and Glasgow are available. This option suits independent travellers who wish to explore Inverness on foot but still return to their ship by mid‑afternoon.

By Local Bus

Local bus routes operated by Stagecoach connect Invergordon with nearby towns, but schedules are limited. Coach companies run full‑day excursions directly from the port (see itineraries below). If you’re comfortable driving on the left, car rental is available in Inverness, arrange for pick‑up and drop‑off at the port through international rental agencies.

Navigating the Cruise Ship Rush

In peak season multiple vessels may dock on the same day, causing short‑term “cruise ship chaos” and traffic around Invergordon. The port, local council and PoCF coordinate to manage this, but it’s wise to leave the pier early and pre‑book your transport. On days when three or more ships call, you’ll see thousands of passengers queuing for coaches. To avoid delays, choose early‑departure tours or independent options like taxi or rail.

Top Day‑Trip Itineraries from Invergordon Cruise Port

Below are four carefully curated itineraries designed for cruise passengers. Each route includes approximate travel times, highlights and tips. Feel free to mix and match depending on your interests and ship’s schedule.

Itinerary 1: Loch Ness & Inverness Highlights

Distance: ~55 miles (88 km) round trip. | Suggested duration: 5 to 6 hours. | Route: Invergordon → Inverness → Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle → Inverness (shopping/dining) → Invergordon

Highlights

• Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle: Journey south along the A9 to Inverness and then follow the A82 hugging the Loch Ness shoreline. The loch stretches 23 miles and is famed for the Loch Ness Monster; visitors often cruise the lake or explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Cruise lines and independent tour operators offer boat trips from Clansman Harbour. Tip: Reserve boat tickets in advance to ensure you catch a morning sailing; early voyages are less crowded.
• Inverness Old Town: On your return, spend an hour wandering the Victorian Market, Inverness Cathedral and the pedestrianised High Street. Browse local crafts or enjoy a dram of whisky in the city’s cosy pubs. The distance from Invergordon to Inverness is only 24 miles (40 km), so you’ll have ample time.
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre (Optional): History enthusiasts can add a stop at Culloden Moor on the outskirts of Inverness. This poignant site commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil in 1746.
  

Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket. Weather on the loch can change quickly, even in summer. Good walking shoes will make exploring the castle ruins easier.

Itinerary 2: Dunrobin Castle & the Eastern Highlands

Distance: ~90 miles (145 km) round trip. | Suggested duration: 6 to 7 hours | Route: Invergordon → Tain & Glenmorangie Distillery → Dunrobin Castle → Dornoch → Invergordon

Highlights

• Glenmorangie Distillery (Tain): Head north on the A9 to the distillery famed for its smooth single‑malt whisky. Take a guided tour of the still house and enjoy a dram (drivers receive a takeaway miniature). Tours last around an hour; book early as they sell out on cruise days.
• Dunrobin Castle: Continue up the coast to this fairy‑tale château, seat of the Earls of Sutherland. The castle’s turrets, formal gardens and falconry displays make it a highlight. Plan at least 90 minutes to explore the house and grounds. Photography is allowed in the gardens but not inside.
• Dornoch Cathedral & Town: On your return, stop in Dornoch, a charming town with a 13th‑century cathedral and boutique shops. Enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at one of the quaint cafés.
  

Pro Tip: Wear layers, coastal breezes can be chilly even in July. If time allows, detour to Dunrobin Castle Railway Station, one of Britain’s prettiest tiny stations.

Itinerary 3: Cawdor Castle, Culloden & Whisky

Distance: ~70 miles (113 km) round trip. | Suggested duration: 5 to 6 hours. | Route: Invergordon → Cawdor Castle → Culloden Battlefield → Glen Ord Distillery → Invergordon

Highlights

• Cawdor Castle: Home of the Thanes of Cawdor and linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, this castle boasts beautiful gardens and a dramatic tower built around a holly tree. Guided tours reveal its literary connections and family history.
• Culloden Battlefield: See Itinerary 1 for details. The visitor centre features interactive exhibits and a moving audio‑visual presentation.
• Glen Ord Distillery: West of Inverness on the Black Isle, Glen Ord is the only Scottish distillery that malts its barley on site. A tasting tour provides insight into whisky making and includes two samples.

Pro Tip: Combine the first two stops with a picnic in Cawdor’s gardens during May and June when the rhododendrons bloom. Avoid midday if two cruise ships are in port to reduce crowding.

Itinerary 4: Invergordon Town & Cromarty Firth Walk

Distance: minimal; explore on foot. | Suggested duration: 3 to 4 hours, plus optional lunch

If you prefer to stay close to the ship or your itinerary doesn’t allow for a long excursion, Invergordon itself offers charm and character.

Highlights

• Invergordon Mural Trail: The town features over 18 large‑scale murals depicting local history, the Stoltman Brothers (world’s strongest men from Invergordon) and maritime scenes. Pick up a trail map at the visitor centre and wander through alleys discovering each painting.
• Invergordon Naval Museum & Heritage Centre: Learn about the port’s role as a Royal Navy base during WWI and WWII, with displays of uniforms, photographs and memorabilia. Admission is donation‑based.
• Saltburn Woodland Walk & Wildlife Watching: Stroll along the coastline to Saltburn Bay, where seals, dolphins and sea birds are often spotted. In spring and autumn, migrating waders feed on the mudflats of the Cromarty Firth.

Pro Tip: Invergordon’s cafés serve excellent fish and chips and home baking. Shops on the High Street stock local crafts and souvenirs.

Seasonal Tips & Best Time to Visit

The cruise season peaks between May and September when long days and mild weather showcase the Highlands at their finest. June brings bright evenings ideal for extended tours but also the busiest ship schedules. For those preferring quieter ports and golden heather on the hills, consider late August to October, when some lines still call yet crowds thin. Winter calls are rare; most ships finish by late November.

Daylight & Weather: In June the sun barely dips below the horizon; you’ll enjoy up to 18 hours of light. Temperatures average 15 to 20 °C (59 to 68 °F) but can drop quickly in rain or wind. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes, the Highlands are beautiful but can be wet even in summer.

Events & Festivals: If your cruise coincides with one of Scotland’s Highland Games or the Royal Highland Show in June, you might extend your stay ashore. Many passengers arrange a chauffeur‑driven transfer from Inverness to events like the Inverness Highland Games or the Royal Highland Show; we recommend booking early as these events attract large crowds.

Practical Advice for Cruise Passengers

• Plan Ahead: Cruise excursions sell out quickly on popular dates. Decide your preferred itinerary and book with your cruise line or a trusted local provider in advance. Independent travellers should pre‑book taxis or car hire.
• Cash & Cards: Scotland uses the British pound (£); credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips. ATMs are available in Invergordon and Inverness.
• Accessibility: Many heritage sites have uneven terrain. Urquhart Castle features a steep path from the visitor centre; wheelchair users should contact staff for assistance. Distilleries and castles often have stairs – check access information when booking.
• Travel Insurance: Always carry travel insurance that covers shore excursions. Weather or port congestion can cause schedule changes.
• Safety: The Highlands are generally safe. Take care on narrow roads and respect wildlife. If walking along the Cromarty Firth, stay clear of the port’s operational areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Invergordon cruise port opens up the very heart of the Scottish Highlands. From mythical Loch Ness and medieval castles to whisky distilleries and mural‑laden streets, there is a wealth of adventure within a day’s reach. By planning ahead, choosing the right itinerary and booking transport early, you’ll avoid the “cruise ship chaos” and make the most of your time ashore. Whether you’re seeking family fun, historical exploration or a dram or two, Invergordon offers something for everyone.

Ready to plan your Highland day trip? Contact us today to arrange a bespoke tour from Invergordon or to secure seats on our carefully curated group excursions. Our local guides will ensure you return to your ship with memories to last a lifetime.