sailscotland 2020

Orkney and Shetland

 Approaching Stromness, Orkney © Orkney Marinas Ltd

THE LANDS AND THE SEAS OF THE VIKINGS AWAIT YOU IN ORKNEY AND SHETLAND. And while these past marauders are now long gone, you can still feel their presence – and those of the oldest civilisations that once inhabited Scotland – throughout the wild but beautiful archipelagos of the Northern Isles.

The people of Orkney and Shetland have an enduring affinity with their Norse forebears, and sailors making landfall in the Northern Isles will soon become aware of the strong Scandinavian influence. Whether you choose to stay a while in Orkney to investigate some of the 70 islands or are stopping off on the way to Shetland, the Faroes or beyond, you will find a friendly welcome, good facilities, a wealth of ancient historic sites, abundant wildlife and a thriving cultural scene including numerous festivals.

There are well-established marinas in Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray, each with a different character. They provide secure berthing with good shelter and are accessible in all tides. A rover ticket allows berthing in all three marinas, at the many piers and visitor moorings throughout the islands so that the cruising possibilities are almost endless. Ask a local for advice on the best routes, where to catch the breathtaking sunsets, and the best places to see the wildlife. Take in the spectacle of Orkney’s vast population of breeding seabirds among stunning coastal scenery off Noup Head

on Westray, St John’s Head on Hoy, or Mull Head or Marwick Head on the Mainland. Visit some of the RSPB’s 13 reserves in the islands, home to hen harriers, corncrakes and curlews. As you cruise from one island to another you’ll see common and grey seals, or ‘selkies’, at home in their breeding sites. The clean seas and fertile land yield a rich variety of local produce, including crab, lobster, salmon and scallops, and premium beef and lamb. Orkney’s proud reputation as a top-quality food and drink destination is well deserved. The world-famous Highland Park and

sail scotland 2020

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