Car Hire at Orkney Islands Airport (KOI)

Book Cheap Car Hire at Orkney Islands Airport

Stepping off the plane at Orkney Islands Airport—widely known as Kirkwall Airport (KOI)—places you instantly on the Orkney Mainland, ready to explore one of the most archaeologically rich landscapes in Europe. Whether you are arriving on a Loganair flight from Edinburgh or Aberdeen for a business trip, or you’re planning a family holiday to visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar, securing a car hire at Orkney Islands Airport gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. Instead of relying on rural bus timetables or paying for taxis out to coastal villages and ancient sites, a rental car lets you explore the islands on your own terms.

Here at 1st UK Car Rentals, we take the hassle out of finding the right rental vehicle. By comparing live rates from trusted local depots alongside major global providers based in and around the terminal—including the long-established W R Tullock desks located right inside the arrivals hall, representing Avis and Europcar, as well as local independent operators offering meet-and-greet services—we secure you a great deal. Whether you need a compact, fuel-efficient hatchback to weave through the narrow streets of Kirkwall and Stromness, or a spacious family SUV to comfortably handle weekend trips across the Churchill Barriers to South Ronaldsay, our partner network guarantees a match for your itinerary.

We pride ourselves on offering fully transparent, cheap car hire with no hidden fees. The price you see when comparing options online is exactly what you pay when you collect your keys at the desk. You can bypass the taxi queues outside the terminal, load up the boot, and hit the A960 towards Kirkwall town centre with confidence, knowing your travel budget is protected.

Tailored Car Hire Options Built Around Your Needs

Debit Card Car Hire at Orkney Islands Airport

We know that not everyone carries or wants to use a credit card, and we don't think that should stand between you and getting on the road. We can help you arrange straightforward debit card car rental with trusted local depots near the airport terminal. As long as your Visa or Mastercard debit card is registered in your name and you meet standard ID checks, picking up your car is smooth. You can enjoy your journey around Orkney without worrying about credit applications or complex payment rules.

Low & No Deposit Car Hire at Orkney Islands Airport

We understand that having a large security deposit held on your card can put a dent in your travel budget. That’s why we offer low and no deposit car hire options across Orkney and the surrounding areas. By reducing or removing the pre-authorisation hold at the pickup counter, you keep your cash where it belongs—in your bank account, ready to enjoy on dining out in traditional pubs in Kirkwall, visiting local attractions like St Magnus Cathedral, and treating the family.

Zero Excess Car Hire at Orkney Islands Airport

Driving along rural island routes and navigating single-track roads across the Orkney Mainland can sometimes feel nerve-wracking if you are unfamiliar with the area. To help you relax behind the wheel, we offer zero excess car hire options that reduce your financial liability to zero. If you happen to pick up a minor scratch from a tight parking space or a small stone chip on the coastal roads, you won't face heavy out-of-pocket repair bills. You can simply enjoy your trip with reassurance from start to finish.

Car Hire for New & Young Drivers Under 25 at Orkney Islands Airport

Finding affordable car hire when you're under 25 or a newly qualified driver can sometimes feel like a challenge, but we are here to make it straightforward. We partner with rental suppliers who welcome younger drivers (typically aged 25 and over for standard rates, but accommodating drivers aged 21-24 with specific smaller vehicles and young driver surcharges), offering well-maintained economy and compact cars that are perfect for building road confidence. We clearly explain any young driver daily surcharges right from the start, so you can get behind the wheel safely and affordably.

No upper age limits on car rental

If you're a senior driver planning a relaxing break in the Northern Isles, you can book with complete confidence through our platform. We strongly believe that age should never be a barrier to getting around, which is why we work with flexible suppliers who offer senior drivers car hire with clear terms and no hidden upper age limits. Whether you're planning scenic country drives out towards Yesnaby or visiting local family, you can enjoy a friendly, respectful service tailored to keep you driving comfortably.

Onward Travel? Flexible One-Way Car Rental

If you've caught a flight into Orkney to start a broader Scottish road trip, your travel plans might involve taking the ferry across to the Scottish mainland instead of flying home. We make cross-country road trips stress-free with our flexible one-way car hire. You can pick up your vehicle right here at Orkney Islands Airport and hand the keys back at Inverness, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, or another UK transport hub—saving you from making a large round trip just to drop off your car.

Reliable Local Van Hire near Orkney Islands Airport

Need something larger than a standard car? Whether you're moving house across the KW15 postcode, collecting heavy equipment, or transporting goods for a local event, we can help you find reliable van hire near Kirkwall. From short-wheelbase panel vans for quick runs to spacious Luton vans for major moves, we connect you with clean, practical commercial vehicles that get the job done quickly and easily.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car at Orkney Islands Airport?

Prices at Kirkwall Airport go up and down depending on the time of year and what's going on locally. Summer tourists flooding the islands for the long daylight hours, visitors attending the St Magnus International Festival, and families arriving for the school holidays all push demand up significantly between May and September.

Whether you just need a car for a weekend break or you're looking for long-term car rental in Orkney for an extended summer stay, booking early usually gets you the best monthly or weekly rates.

Orkney Islands Airport Car Hire Price Guide (Seasonal Averages)

To give you an idea of what to budget, here’s a look at the average daily rates for different types of cars at the airport. (Note: Airport locations and remote island depots often carry a slight premium compared to mainland urban branches).

Vehicle Type	Typical Provider	Average Daily Rate (Inc. Basic Cover)	Peak Summer Rate	Low Season Estimate
Small City Car (Economy)	W R Tullock / Europcar	£40.00	£75.00	£35.00
Compact Hatchback	Avis / Orkney Car Hire	£45.00	£85.00	£38.00
Family Estate Car	Enterprise / Europcar	£65.00	£115.00	£55.00
Crossover / SUV	Local Independent / Avis	£80.00	£145.00	£70.00
Executive Saloon	Avis / W R Tullock	£90.00	£165.00	£80.00
7-Seater People Carrier (MPV)	Europcar / Enterprise	£105.00	£190.00	£95.00
Fully Electric (EV)	W R Tullock / Europcar	£75.00	£135.00	£65.00
Large Premium SUV	Avis / Local	£130.00	£230.00	£115.00

Just a quick note: These figures are average estimates to help you plan. Final prices will vary depending on how far in advance you book, how long you need the car for, and what vehicles are actually left on the tarmac.

When to Book Your Orkney Islands Airport Car Rental for the Best Price

Orkney gets busy during the peak summer months. Because Orkney Islands Airport serves as the main fly-drive gateway into the archipelago, local rental fleets are often stretched to maximum capacity during July and August.

Popular cars like small hatchbacks, family estates, and automatic SUVs get booked fast. It’s always a good idea to book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance for summer travel. If you leave it to the last minute, you might end up paying a premium, or you might find the airport rental desks are completely sold out when your plane lands.

Which Hire Car is Right for Orkney?

The type of car you need really depends on where you plan to go after leaving the airport. Squeezing into the narrow streets of Kirkwall and Stromness or navigating ferry access ramps is easier in a small car, while packing the family up with camping gear and hiking equipment for a journey around the coastline might call for a sturdy SUV or Estate.

If you’re visiting from abroad or just prefer an easier drive in rural areas, automatic car hire in Orkney is very popular. An automatic takes the hassle out of constantly changing gears as you navigate stop-start tourist traffic near major historical sites or deal with single-track roads, letting you just focus on the views.

Popular Car Categories and What They're Good For

Vehicle Category	Best Used For near Orkney Islands Airport	Popular Examples	Why Choose This?
Small Hatchbacks	Kirkwall driving, squeezing down narrow coastal lanes, everyday errands.	Fiat 500, Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta	Nimble in traffic, easy to park in tight spots, and great on fuel.
Estate Cars	Family days out to ancient sites, carrying outdoor gear or heavy luggage.	Skoda Octavia Estate, Ford Focus Estate	Good boot space for bags and pushchairs, and they drive comfortably on the main A-roads.
SUVs & Crossovers	Exploring remote rural routes, all-weather driving.	Nissan Juke, Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga	You sit a bit higher up, which helps with visibility on country lanes, and they are very spacious inside.
Executive Saloons	Business trips into Kirkwall, corporate meetings, smooth coastal drives.	BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class	Quiet inside, comfortable, and they look the part if you're turning up to a business meeting.
7-Seater People Carriers	Group trips, family holidays, taking everyone out for a day trip to Scapa Flow.	Volkswagen Touran, Ford Galaxy	Generous amount of space, and you can fold the seats flat if you need to move bulky luggage.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)	Eco-friendly trips, quiet driving along scenic rural routes.	MG4 EV, Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf	Cheap to run, smooth in stop-start traffic, and beneficial for the pristine island environment.

Where to Pick Up Your Hire Car at Orkney Islands Airport

Because Orkney Islands Airport (KOI) is a compact, single-terminal regional airport, picking up your rental car is fast and stress-free.

Provider / Depot	Location / Access	Best Suited For	Key Details
W R Tullock (Avis/Europcar)	Arrivals Hall (KW15 1TH)	Airport arrivals, business	Desks located directly inside the terminal building, with vehicles parked a short walk outside.
Orkney Car Hire	Meet & Greet Service	Tourists, families	A reliable local provider offering free meet-and-greet services directly at the airport terminal.
Drive Orkney	Meet & Greet / Kirkwall	Visitors, island hoppers	Another strong local provider offering vehicle collection at the airport by prior arrangement.

Getting to Your Rental Branch

If you are picking up your car after stepping off your flight:

• Inside the Terminal: Once you collect your bags from the baggage reclaim area and pass into the main Arrivals Hall, the W R Tullock car rental desk is immediately visible.
• Meet & Greet Providers: For independent providers like Orkney Car Hire, a representative will typically wait for you in the arrivals area with your name on a board, handing over the keys right outside the terminal doors.
• Collecting the Car: The dedicated car rental pick-up and drop-off areas are situated just a minute's walk from the terminal exit.

What Documents Do You Need to Hire a Car in the UK?

When you arrive to pick up your car, the desk staff will need to check a few details for insurance purposes. Having these ready will save you time and stop you from hanging around the rental desk:

• Valid Driving Licence: You’ll need a full, valid photocard licence that you've held for at least 12 months. They won't accept a photo of it on your phone or a photocopy, so make sure you have the physical card. If you’re visiting from abroad, bring your national driving licence (and an International Driving Permit if your licence isn't in English).
• DVLA Check Code (UK Residents): If you hold a UK licence, you need to grab a share code from the GOV.UK website within 21 days of picking up the car. The staff use this to check your penalty points. You just need your licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode to get one.
• Proof of Address: Bring a physical paper document, like a recent utility bill or a bank statement from the last 3 months. The address on it needs to match your driving licence exactly.
• Payment Card: The main driver has to bring a physical payment card in their own name so the depot can hold the security deposit. Most places ask for a credit card, but we can arrange debit card rental options if requested in advance.
• Age Limits: You generally need to be at least 25 to rent a standard car. If you want a luxury car or a 9-seater, you usually need to be 30 or older.

Understanding Car Hire Insurance and Excess

Insurance jargon can be confusing, but understanding it helps keep your budget safe—especially if you're navigating tight car parks or driving down narrow rural island lanes.

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): By law, standard UK rental rates include basic CDW. This limits how much you have to pay if the car gets damaged, but you will still have to pay an excess fee.
• The Excess Amount: The excess is the maximum amount you’d have to pay out of your own pocket towards repairs. Depending on the size of the car, this is usually somewhere between £1,000 and £1,500.
• Excess Protection / Super CDW: You can choose to buy extra excess protection at the desk. This lowers your liability to zero (or a very small amount). It adds to the daily cost of the rental, but it gives you peace of mind when you're squeezing past a tractor on a country road.
• Independent Excess Insurance: To save money, you can buy independent excess insurance online before you pick up the car. If you do this, the rental company will still put a hold on your card for the full excess, but if you do get charged for damage, you can claim the money back from your independent insurer later.

Straightforward Car Hire with 1st UK Car Rentals

Nobody likes stepping off a flight only to be hit with extra charges or pushy sales tactics when all they want to do is grab the keys and go.

We are one of the UK's largest independent car rental providers. We believe in keeping things simple. The price you see when you search online is the base price you’ll pay when you pick up the car. We don't hide costs in the fine print, so you know exactly what you're paying and can budget properly for your trip.

If you're planning a long drive around the islands, keep an eye out for deals that include a free extra driver. It’s a great way to split the driving without having to pay extra daily fees at the desk. We clearly mark these offers on our site so you can find them easily.

We partner with big global names and trusted local companies operating right inside and near Orkney Islands Airport. This means you'll pick up a modern, well-maintained car with clear terms from start to finish.

A Few Handy Tips Before You Hit the Road from Orkney Islands Airport

A few quick tips for renting a car on the Orkney Mainland:

• Island Roads and Single-Track Lanes: Once you leave the main A960 and A965 routes, many scenic roads turn into single-track lanes. Always look ahead for passing places, and remember to reverse into them if you are closest. Never park in a designated passing place.
• Ferry Travel: If you plan to take your rental car on the local ferries to visit the North Isles (such as Sanday or Westray) or south to the Scottish mainland, inform the rental desk beforehand to ensure your insurance covers ferry travel.
• Fill up before you drop it off: Most rentals require you to bring the car back with a full tank. It's cheaper to fill up at a local petrol station in Kirkwall—such as the Tesco or local garages on the edge of town—rather than paying the airport rental company’s higher refuelling rates.
• Check the car for scratches: Before you drive away from the airport car park, take a couple of minutes to walk around the car and snap a few photos or a quick video on your phone. Make sure any existing marks or scuffs on the alloys are recorded on your paperwork.

Common Questions About Hiring a Car at Orkney Islands Airport

Does Orkney have a charging Clean Air Zone (CAZ)?

No. Orkney does not operate a charging Clean Air Zone. You can drive freely from the airport through Kirkwall and the surrounding islands without facing any daily emissions penalties.

Do I have to pay extra to add another driver?

Not if you book a deal through 1st UK Car Rentals that specifically includes it. If your deal does not include a free additional driver, providers at airport locations typically charge a daily surcharge of around £15 to £20 per day.

Can I use a debit card to hire a car at Kirkwall Airport?

Most of the big rental branches in the arrivals hall will ask for a physical credit card in the main driver's name to hold the security deposit. A few places might accept a debit card, but usually only if you buy their top-tier zero-excess insurance at the desk. Always double-check the payment terms when you're booking online.

Can I hire a car if I'm under 25?

Yes, but there are some rules. If you're 25 or over, you can rent almost anything. If you're between 21 and 24, you can still hire smaller cars, but you will have to pay a young driver fee every day, and they won't let you rent the premium cars or large SUVs.

Local Travel & Area Information

Exploring Orkney from the Airport by Car

Located just three miles south-east of Kirkwall, Orkney Islands Airport is the perfect starting line for exploring the archipelago. The KW15 postcode puts you instantly within reach of the main island routes, the historical depths of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, and the scenic coastlines of the North Sea.

While the region has some bus links, relying purely on public transport to explore the historical sites from the airport can be restrictive. If you want to head out to the standing stones, drive to a quiet coastal viewpoint, or visit the Italian Chapel at your own pace, having a rental car makes life a lot simpler. By picking up a hire car right after landing, you can skip rigid schedules and enjoy the islands on your own terms.

Why Hiring a Car at Orkney Islands Airport is the Best Way to Travel

Lugging bags, outdoor gear, or camping equipment onto a local bus isn't always practical, and relying on taxis for trips out to remote archaeological sites can get very expensive.

If you're arriving for work and need to get between meetings in Kirkwall, the harbour areas, or the local business zones, a rental car is usually the quickest and most private way to travel. It means you can tackle the local business landscape without waiting for a cab to show up at the terminal.

If you've just stepped off the plane for a family holiday, you'll probably want to explore the ancient standing stones, visit the famous Neolithic villages, or take a scenic drive across the Churchill Barriers. Hiring a roomy estate car or a 7-seater people carrier means everyone gets a comfortable seat, with plenty of room in the boot for suitcases and walking boots. You can just throw your gear in the back and set off whenever you’re ready.

Clean Air Zones and Driving Charges

Driving out of Orkney Islands Airport means you can enjoy good road access without daily charges for passenger cars.

As mentioned, there are no Clean Air Zone charges in Orkney for private passenger cars. There are also no toll roads on the islands, allowing you to explore the local routes entirely free of charge. If you take the car on a ferry, standard passenger and vehicle ferry fares will apply via NorthLink or Pentland Ferries.

Driving from Orkney Islands Airport: A Quick Local Guide

Driving away from the airport requires focus as you join the rural road network, but you have an advantage picking your car up right on the main access route to Kirkwall.

The Main Roads Around the Airport

• The A960: The primary route right outside the airport, taking you north-west directly into Kirkwall town centre, or south-east towards Deerness.
• The A965: Running west out of Kirkwall, this is the main road connecting the capital to Finstown and Stromness.
• The A961: Heading south from Kirkwall, this famous route takes you across the Churchill Barriers, linking the Orkney Mainland to the islands of Burray and South Ronaldsay.
• The A966: Heading north-west from Finstown towards Evie and the northern coastline of the Mainland.

Traffic and Busy Times

Because the A960 is the main link between the airport and Kirkwall, it can experience steady traffic corresponding with flight arrivals. During the summer months, roads near the major tourist sites (like the Ring of Brodgar on the B9055) can become busy with coaches and visitor traffic. Give yourself extra travel time when navigating near popular attractions.

Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging in Orkney

Parking in Orkney is generally straightforward, with local council car parks in the main towns and dedicated bays at the historical sites.

Local Parking Facilities

Car Park	Location / Access	Best For	Details
Airport Car Park	Terminal Building	Passengers	Secure, official airport parking situated directly outside the main terminal building.
Broad Street Car Park	Kirkwall Town Centre	Shopping, Cathedral	Convenient parking located right in the heart of Kirkwall for exploring the main sights.
Skara Brae Visitor Centre	Sandwick	Historical sites	Large customer parking provided for visitors to the famous Neolithic village.

Charging Your Electric Rental Car

If you've hired an EV to reduce your carbon footprint, Orkney is well-equipped with charging infrastructure:

• Town Centres: Kirkwall and Stromness feature public fast EV charging bays.
• Ferry Terminals & Sites: Chargers are available near major transport hubs and some of the key visitor attractions across the Mainland.

10 Great Places to Drive from Orkney Islands Airport

Picking up your rental car at the airport puts you in a good spot to escape into the history of the islands:

1. St Magnus Cathedral & Kirkwall

3 miles | About a 10-minute drive

Take a short drive into Kirkwall to visit the stunning Romanesque St Magnus Cathedral, founded in 1137. Explore the nearby Earl's and Bishop's Palaces, and enjoy the local shops and cafes in the island capital.

2. The Italian Chapel

5 miles | About a 10-minute drive

Drive south down the A961 to the first of the Churchill Barriers to visit this highly ornate Catholic chapel. It was built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII using limited scavenged materials, creating a beautiful and moving piece of history.

3. The Churchill Barriers

5 to 13 miles | About a 10 to 25-minute drive

Continue driving south across this series of four causeways linking the Orkney Mainland to South Ronaldsay. Built during WWII to protect the naval anchorage of Scapa Flow, they now serve as the main road links between the southern islands.

4. Skara Brae

18 miles | About a 35-minute drive

Head west to the Bay of Skaill to explore one of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in Western Europe. Older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, this stone-built settlement offers an incredible look into life 5,000 years ago.

5. The Ring of Brodgar

14 miles | About a 25-minute drive

Drive west to this massive stone circle and henge monument. Set beautifully between the lochs of Stenness and Harray, it is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

6. Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

12 miles | About a 20-minute drive

Located near the standing stones, Maeshowe is a masterpiece of Neolithic design. Enter the ancient burial monument (by guided tour) to see the massive stone architecture and 12th-century Viking runic carvings.

7. Stromness

17 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Take the A965 west to Orkney’s second-largest town. Stromness is a picturesque port town with a maritime history, featuring winding stone-flagged streets, the Pier Arts Centre, and views out to the hills of Hoy.

8. Yesnaby Cliffs

19 miles | About a 35-minute drive

Drive to the west coast of the Mainland to see the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Yesnaby. The area is famous for its sea stacks, including the Yesnaby Castle, and offers excellent coastal walking.

9. Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum

15 miles | About a 30-minute drive

Head south across the barriers to Lyness on the island of Hoy (via ferry from Houton) or visit the local viewpoints on the Mainland. The waters of Scapa Flow hold deep naval history from both World Wars.

10. Brough of Birsay

23 miles | About a 40-minute drive

Drive to the north-west tip of the Mainland to visit this tidal island. Accessible on foot only at low tide, the island features Pictish and Norse ruins, and offers the chance to spot puffins during the summer months.

Things to See Right Near Orkney Islands Airport

If you have an hour to spare before picking up your rental car, or you want to explore before a flight, take a moment to explore the local sights immediately surrounding the KW15 area:

• Highland Park Distillery: Located on the southern edge of Kirkwall, just a few minutes from the airport, this historic distillery has been producing single malt Scotch whisky since 1798.
• Scapa Beach: A short drive south from the airport brings you to this sheltered, sandy beach on the edge of Scapa Flow, popular for walking and wild swimming.
• Orkney Museum: Situated in Kirkwall, this museum provides a great overview of Orkney’s history, from the Stone Age through to the Picts, Vikings, and the modern era.

Compare live car hire deals at Orkney Islands Airport, across the islands, and the wider region with 1st UK Car Rentals, and book your rental car securely online today.