Car rental at Lerwick Port

Rent a Car in Lerwick Port

Compare 3 providers in downtown Lerwick. Grab the keys and explore.

LocationPort
Providers3
Price tipBook 2-4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+

Quick answer: At Lerwick Port you can compare rental cars from 3 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready - that's where most people get caught out.

About Renting a Car at Lerwick Port

Lerwick port is the natural arrival point for ferry passengers from Bergen, Aberdeen, and other destinations, with 3 rental companies right at the dock. Pick up your rental car as soon as you step off NorthLink Ferries and start exploring Shetland without detours. The port is centrally located in Lerwick, just 500 meters from the city center.

Lerwick port is surrounded by Victorian trading houses along Commercial Street and offers direct views of the island of Bressay. From the port, you can reach Jarlshof, one of Europe's most important archaeological sites, in 45 minutes' drive (40 km) south via A970. Synchronize your car pickup with your ferry arrival - NorthLink Ferries often arrives early in the morning, confirm that the rental company opens on time.

Have British pounds available as card terminals sometimes can experience problems in harbor environments. Check weather forecasts - Shetland weather can change rapidly and affect driving conditions. Can I book a car to pick up right at Lerwick port when the ferry arrives?

Yes, several rental companies at the port offer early pickup adapted to NorthLink Ferries arrival times. How long does it take to drive around the whole of Shetland? A round trip on Shetland's main island takes approximately 3-4 hours without stops, but allow a full day to see the sights.

Is it possible to leave the car at Sumburgh Airport instead of the port? Some rental companies offer this - confirm at booking and expect a possible one-way rental fee.

We compare prices from all major providers at Lerwick Port so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Quick Guide: Car Hire in Lerwick Port

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of United Kingdom. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Lerwick Port

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Avis
Keddy
Europcar

Essential Info for Renting at Lerwick Port

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Lerwick Port you can compare rentals from 3 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in United Kingdom ▼

In United Kingdom you drive on the left side.

  • Urban speed limit: 48 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0.8 per mille
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking is usually available in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Watch for signs and be prepared to pay fees.

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Lerwick Port

Which rental companies are available at Lerwick Port?▼
You can compare 3 rental companies at Lerwick Port on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in United Kingdom?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Lerwick Port?▼
The minimum age to rent in United Kingdom is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in United Kingdom?▼
In United Kingdom you drive on the left side. Speed limits: 48 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 113 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Lerwick Port you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Lerwick Port use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Lerwick Port?▼
Generally, booking 2-4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Lerwick Port

Other Rental Locations Near Lerwick Port

Found your car yet?

Real prices, real terms, 3 providers. See what Lerwick Port has to offer.

Lock in today's prices