News / No more photo ID
VISITORS to Shetland and Orkney will no longer need photo identification to board NorthLink ferries, the company announced on Thursday.
Serco NorthLink’s managing director Stuart Garrett said the move was in line with other domestic ferry services.
The company made the decision after passengers raised the question why NorthLink were the only ferry service in Scotland demanding photo ID.
Speaking at the Orkney Tourism Group industry conference, Garrett said he believed it would boost tourism to the northern isles, allowing people to make unplanned visits.
It comes on the back of vessel improvements including premium recliner seats, public showers, a premium lounge and an upgraded catering service, wi-fi and video on demand, which will be unveiled in the new year.
“Halting the need for photographic identity cards will make it easier for people to make spontaneous visits. It also makes the Northern Isles feel welcoming and inclusive from first impression,” Garrett said.
He warned that people would need identification when picking up pre-booked or discounted tickets.
The move was welcomed by Orkney Islands Council convener Steven Heddle at Thursday’s conference.
He said: “The council has opposed this as an unnecessary barrier to travel from the outset, and the applause from the conference when this was announced vindicates that position.
“Personally, having campaigned vigorously against it when it was announced, I find this a happy day.”
Orkney MSP Liam McArthur added: “I have never been able to see the rationale for forcing passengers to carry photo ID on either of the routes, so I welcome the announcement today.
“On the Pentland Firth route in particular, it has seemed like a real disincentive for travellers and a needless obstacle to growing our important tourism sector.”
Ferry crews are currently balloting on strike action that could affect travel over the Christmas and holiday period.
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