Isle of Noss Cruise Port

The Isle of Noss lies as a small, uninhabited island within Shetland, Scotland, separated from Bressay by the narrow currents of Noss Sound. Operated as a working sheep farm since 1900 and designated as a national nature reserve in 1955, Noss draws wildlife enthusiasts via a seasonal inflatable ferry run by dedicated wildlife wardens. For maritime travelers exploring remote northern waters, stepping ashore delivers an immediate immersion into a wild, windswept sanctuary defined by dramatic coastal scenery and remarkable isolation.

The island's primary allure centers on its extraordinary and internationally significant seabird colonies nesting along weathered sandstone cliffs. Horizontal rock ledges provide ideal breeding grounds for tens of thousands of gannets, puffins, guillemots, shags, black-legged kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars, and great skuas. Coastal waters frequently host playful otters, grey and common seals, and passing marine mammals like harbour porpoises. This dense concentration of wildlife creates a vibrant ecosystem that thrives against the crashing waves of the North Atlantic.

History and heritage remain visible ashore around the low-lying western settlement of Gungstie, constructed in the 1670s and currently utilized by seasonal wildlife wardens. Key landmarks include the historic Pony Pund once used for breeding Shetland ponies, the dramatic Holm of Noss rock stack, and the soaring heights of the Noup cliff. Compact enough to explore entirely on foot, the island features no permanent residents, offering an authentic glimpse into the rugged frontier of Scottish island life.

Local expedition vessels and onboard galley teams serve comforting hot soups, traditional shortbread, and warming teas after windy coastal excursions.

Birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and Scottish island cruisers will find this windswept reserve unforgettable for its towering gannet cliffs and marine life. Cruised past the seabird cliffs of the Isle of Noss? You can track your cruise on The Cruise Globe to see your ship's precise route.