South Queensferry Cruise Guide
Most ships anchor just offshore and tender into Hawes Pier — a dramatic arrival beneath the bridges and the old waterfront. But from there, the day can unfold in very different ways. That’s why smart planning starts with knowing what to expect the moment you step off the boat.
This guide brings together real-world cruise arrival tips, up-to-date transport options, and direct comparisons between spending your day in South Queensferry or heading into Edinburgh. Built from local insight and the 2026 cruise schedule, these pages help first-time visitors cut through the noise and get their plans right the first time.
What to Expect Arriving on a Scotland Cruise in Queensferry
Queensferry Cruise Port Guide
A practical guide to arriving by tender at Hawes Pier – timings, layout, local logistics, and what first-time visitors should know before stepping ashore.
Tendering at Hawes Pier
A step-by-step look at the tender process – how boarding works, what you’ll see on the ride in, and what to expect in the first few minutes on the pier.
Queensferry or Edinburgh?
A clear comparison to help you decide whether to spend your cruise stop exploring Queensferry or head into Edinburgh for the day.
Queensferry Cruise Arrival Logistics
Getting to Edinburgh
Clear, simple routes into Edinburgh by bus, taxi or train, with realistic timings for cruise passengers.
2026 Cruise Ship Schedule
A full list of 2026 cruise ship arrivals for South Queensferry, including dates, ship names and expected tender times.
Edinburgh Cruise Ports Compared
A side-by-side guide to Queensferry, Leith and Newhaven – access, transport links and which port works best for your day ashore.