Overview of the X99 Bus Service
The X99 bus service connects Thurso and Inverness via Wick, operating three times daily from Monday to Saturday and twice on Sundays. It provides essential links for Northern Highlands residents and visitors.
X99 Bus Timetable Details
The X99 operates three times daily from Monday to Saturday and twice on Sundays. Key departures include Inverness at 10:20, 14:20, and 16:20, with arrivals in Thurso at 12:25, 16:25, and 18:25.
2.1 Weekday Timetable
The X99 bus service operates three times daily on weekdays, providing essential connections between Thurso and Inverness. Departures from Inverness Bus Station are scheduled at 10:20 AM, 2:20 PM, and 4:20 PM. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with key stops including Wick and Scrabster. From Thurso, buses depart at 11:50 AM, 3:50 PM, and 5:50 PM, arriving in Inverness by 2:20 PM, 6:20 PM, and 8:20 PM respectively. This frequent service ensures convenient travel options for commuters and visitors alike. The timetable is designed to align with key connections, including ferries at Scrabster and healthcare facilities like Raigmore Hospital. Passengers can plan their journeys using the Stagecoach website or app, which offers real-time updates and downloadable PDF timetables for offline use. This reliable schedule makes the X99 a vital link for the Northern Highlands community.
2.2 Weekend Timetable
On weekends, the X99 bus service operates twice daily, ensuring continued connectivity between Thurso and Inverness. Saturday departures from Inverness Bus Station are at 1:15 PM and 4:15 PM, while Sunday services depart at 10:45 AM and 2:15 PM. From Thurso, buses leave at 9:25 AM and 12:25 PM on Saturdays, and at 11:25 AM and 3:25 PM on Sundays. The journey duration remains consistent at approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with key stops including Wick, Scrabster, and Dunbeath. This reduced weekend schedule still provides essential links for residents and visitors, especially those accessing ferries or healthcare facilities. Passengers can download the timetable PDF from the Stagecoach website or use the app for real-time updates, ensuring seamless travel planning even on weekends.
Key Stops on the X99 Route
The X99 bus route connects Thurso to Inverness via Wick, with several key stops along the way. Major stops include Inverness Bus Station, Inverness Shopping Park, Raigmore Hospital, Wick, Scrabster Ferry Terminal, and Thurso. These stops provide essential connectivity for passengers traveling between the Northern Highlands and Inverness. The service also includes stops at Duncanston Cross Roads, Cadboll Wood, and Kildary, ensuring coverage of rural areas. The X99 route is strategically designed to link residential communities, healthcare facilities, and transport hubs, making it a vital service for both locals and visitors. With its comprehensive network of stops, the X99 ensures convenient access to key destinations along the A9 and east coast routes.
X99 Route Map and Journey Planner
The X99 route map and journey planner are essential tools for navigating the service between Thurso and Inverness. The route map outlines the entire journey, showcasing stops along the A9 and east coast. Passengers can download a PDF version from Stagecoach’s website or use the interactive journey planner online. This planner allows users to input their start and end points, view real-time updates, and plan their trip efficiently. The X99 route spans from Thurso to Inverness, passing through key locations like Wick and Scrabster. The map highlights major landmarks and transfer points, ensuring easy navigation. Additionally, the journey planner integrates live service updates, helping passengers avoid disruptions. For offline use, the PDF map is a convenient option, detailing the full route and timetables. By using these resources, travelers can seamlessly plan their journeys and enjoy a hassle-free experience on the X99 bus service.
Downloading the X99 Timetable PDF
Downloading the X99 timetable PDF is a straightforward process, offering passengers a convenient way to plan their journeys offline. The PDF is available on the Stagecoach North Scotland website and includes detailed timetables, route maps, and service updates. It covers the entire X99 route from Thurso to Inverness, including stops in Wick and Scrabster. The timetable is updated regularly to reflect any changes in service schedules, ensuring accuracy. Passengers can access the PDF by visiting the Stagecoach website, navigating to the X99 service page, and selecting the download option. Once downloaded, the PDF can be saved to a device for easy reference while traveling. This feature is particularly useful for those with limited internet access during their journey. By having the timetable readily available, passengers can plan their trips efficiently, avoiding delays and ensuring a smooth travel experience on the X99 bus service.
Service Reliability and Punctuality
The X99 bus service is known for its commitment to reliability and punctuality, ensuring passengers can depend on consistent and timely travel between Thurso and Inverness. With regular departures and a well-structured timetable, the service operates smoothly, minimizing delays. Real-time tracking tools, available through the Stagecoach Bus App, allow passengers to monitor their bus’s arrival time accurately. The service adheres to a strict schedule, with buses running every four hours between Thurso and Inverness. Factors like road conditions and traffic are closely monitored to maintain punctuality. While occasional disruptions may occur, Stagecoach North Scotland works diligently to address issues promptly, ensuring minimal impact on travel plans. Passengers can rely on the X99 for a dependable journey, making it a trusted option for both locals and visitors in the Northern Highlands. This focus on reliability enhances the overall travel experience, providing peace of mind for those using the service.
Service Alerts and Disruptions
Service alerts and disruptions on the X99 route are communicated promptly to ensure passengers are informed. Stagecoach North Scotland uses digital platforms to notify users of any changes, delays, or cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances. Weather conditions, roadworks, or special events along the A9 and east coast routes may occasionally affect schedules. Passengers can check the Stagecoach website or app for real-time updates. Additionally, social media channels provide immediate alerts during disruptions. In such cases, alternative routes or replacement services are arranged to minimize inconvenience; Timely notifications allow passengers to plan their journeys accordingly. By staying informed, travelers can adapt to any service changes, ensuring a smoother experience despite disruptions. Regular updates and clear communication are priorities for maintaining customer trust and satisfaction on the X99 service.
Connecting Routes and Through Fares
The X99 service offers connecting routes with other Stagecoach services, ensuring seamless travel across the Highlands. Through fares are available, making it easy to transfer between buses without additional costs. This enhances convenience for passengers traveling beyond the X99 route.
8.1 Connecting Bus Services
Passengers on the X99 route can seamlessly connect to other Stagecoach services, such as the X25, which links Dornoch, Tain, and Inverness. This connection allows for extended travel options across the Highland region. Additionally, the X99 service ensures that through fares are available for these connecting routes, eliminating the need for multiple payments. This integrated network enhances convenience, especially for those traveling beyond Thurso or Inverness. The Stagecoach Highlands network provides a comprehensive system, making it easier to explore the Northern Highlands without the hassle of separate tickets. By using the Stagecoach Bus App, passengers can plan their journeys in advance, ensuring a smooth transition between connecting services. This connectivity is particularly beneficial for commuters and tourists alike, offering a reliable and efficient way to traverse the region.
Accessibility on X99 Buses
The X99 bus service prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that all passengers, including those with mobility challenges, can travel comfortably. Low-floor, easy-access buses are operated on this route, equipped with ramps to facilitate boarding for wheelchair users and individuals with limited mobility. Additionally, designated priority seating areas are available near the front of the bus for passengers with disabilities. The buses are designed to meet modern accessibility standards, providing a safe and inclusive travel experience. Passengers with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact Stagecoach North Scotland in advance to ensure their requirements are met. The service also offers visual and audible announcements to assist passengers with sensory impairments. By maintaining a commitment to accessibility, the X99 ensures that everyone can enjoy the scenic journey between Inverness, Wick, and Thurso. This focus on inclusivity makes the X99 a reliable choice for all travelers.
Using the Stagecoach Bus App for X99
The Stagecoach Bus App is a convenient tool for planning and managing your journey on the X99 bus service. It allows users to access real-time bus tracking, view live departure times, and plan routes between Inverness, Wick, and Thurso. The app provides detailed timetables, including PDF downloads, making it easy to prepare for your trip. You can also purchase tickets directly through the app, ensuring a seamless and contactless payment process. Additionally, the app offers service alerts and push notifications, keeping you informed about any disruptions or changes to the X99 timetable. This feature is particularly useful for staying updated while on the go. By downloading the Stagecoach Bus App, passengers can enhance their travel experience with up-to-date information and convenient journey planning. It is a vital resource for anyone relying on the X99 service for travel in the Northern Highlands.