Which islands can I visit for the day from Rousay?
Egilsay and Wyre can each make a half-day outing by ferry. Orkney Mainland works better as a full day, with onward transport from Tingwall to the places you want to see. Check outward and return sailings together before deciding how much you can fit in.
Wyre and Cubbie Roo’s Castle
Wyre is an easy half-day trip from our farm. There’s Cubbie Roo’s Castle, nearby St Mary’s Chapel and the community heritage centre to visit.
Our Wyre and Cubbie Roo’s Castle guide covers the Norse history, visiting information and ferry planning.
A day on Orkney Mainland
The Rousay–Tingwall ferry takes you to Orkney Mainland for a day of coastal walks, harbour towns and time by the shore. Our Mainland walking guide has six walks, with distances, descriptions of the ground and ferry details for getting back.
From Tingwall, you’ll need to travel on to your walk or visit. Our car-hire advice has details if you need a vehicle.
Half a day on Egilsay
Orkney Ferries runs a daily service between Rousay, Egilsay, Wyre and Tingwall. Egilsay is an easy half-day visit. The timetable shows which islands each sailing calls at and when you can come back.
The Tingwall office can help with sailings and bookings on 01856 751360. Our Rousay ferry guide explains the journey.
Eynhallow by private charter
Eynhallow is a great option if you’d like to visit an uninhabited island. There’s no regular public ferry, so visits are by private charter or organised excursion.
Our boat-charter guide has more about Eynhallow and operators who can arrange a trip from Rousay.
A few more questions
Can we visit Wyre for the day from the farm?
Yes, Wyre is an easy half-day trip from the farm. Orkney Ferries has the outward and return sailings, and our Wyre guide has visiting details.
Does every ferry call at every island?
No. The timetable shows which islands each sailing calls at. Booking details are on the Orkney Ferries website.
Can I take the regular ferry to Eynhallow?
No, there’s no regular public ferry to Eynhallow. Visits are by private charter or organised excursion.
Find out more
From Stay Rousay. Practical information checked 17 September 2026. The links go to the operators and local organisations for the latest details.