Visitor numbers increase as Orkney tourism looks to develop

Orkney welcomed over 170,000 visitors in 2017, with the local economy being boosted by nearly £50 million, as the islands continue to be a popular tourist destination.

The findings were revealed in the Island Visitor Survey, commissioned by Orkney Islands Council in partnership with VisitScotland, however the findings do not include the approximate 113,000 cruise liner passengers who arrived in the county last year.

Of those surveyed, a high level of satisfaction was found, with Orkney’s stunning scenery and fascinating historical sites found to be the main reasons behind visitors flocking to the islands.

A total of 174,273 visits were made to Orkney last year, with the total value of visits totalling £49.5 million, up from 142,816 and £31.1 million in 2013.

VisitScotland regional leadership director, Chris Taylor, said that the findings demonstrate the importance of tourism within the islands, and was delighted that visitors numbers had increased.

He said: “Tourism is at the heart of the Orkney economy — generating sustainable economic success and a wide range of jobs in many rural communities. The growth in visitor numbers is important because it supports employment right across the Orkney Islands.

“With this research in mind, we look forward to continuing to work with Orkney Islands Council, Destination Orkney and others to continue to grow tourism.

“Orkney is a place renowned for its astounding archaeological treasures and historical sites, beautiful coastline, wonderful wildlife and stunning scenery, great culture, arts and music. It comes as no surprise that so many people want to discover these islands and their friendly locals for themselves.”

Gareth Crichton, chairman of Destination Orkney, said: “The Islands Visitor Survey shows that tourism in Orkney is in good health but there is always more that we can do.

“The up-to-date survey of customer views provides invaluable evidence which we and our Destination Orkney strategic partners will use to good effect in planning how best to develop Orkney’s tourism industry together to create and sustain even more jobs in the local economy.”