Lerwick Harbour is a Tall Ships friendly port, with a long tradition of welcoming international tall ships and yachts.
Lerwick will, for the third time, have the honour of hosting the fleet of The Tall Ships Races between 26-29 July 2023.
The magnificent fleet with an international crew, will experience Shetland's well reknown hospitality during the four days of celebrations in port, building on the success of the previous events hosted in 1999 and 2011.
Lerwick Port Authority has town-centre facilities for summer visitors arriving by sea and has long experience of Tall Ships requirements. Lerwick Boating Club is a friendly and helpful stop and their showers and laundry facilities have been well received by many visiting crews. All amenities are close to hand in the town-centre but for those wishing a quieter experience, there are anchorages available within a short distance.
The magnificent Norwegian sailing ship, Statsraad Lehmkuhl, is proud to call Lerwick its 'second home port' making regular visits between May to September from Bergen. Throughout the season, traditional vessels of all sizes and types arrive to provide an interesting focal point in the Town Centre.
Shetland’s own sail training vessel Swan LK243 has a popular sailing programme with trips from a short evening sail in coastal waters to longer ocean crossings to Scotland, England and the Nordic regions.
Berthing
Where possible, a Town Centre berth will be allocated if available. Bona fide sailing training vessels enjoy free harbour charges for stays up to 3 days, plus free linesmen to moor and let-go the vessel if required. Berth reservations can be made with prior notice to Port Control.
Pilotage
Pilotage is not compulsory if trainees are crew (unless there are passengers onboard). Where a pilot is requested, a charge of one hour for the Pilot and one hour for the Pilot vessel will apply.
Water and Electricity
Smaller quantities of water and electricity, where available from integral bollards on pontoons, are provided free of charge. Large volume water delivery or non-standard electricity provision will be charged as per our standard published rates.
All across the isles, you will find a range of events and activities for all ages showcasing Shetland’s tremendous community spirit. From traditional Sunday Teas to World-renowned Festivals there is something for all ages and abilities.
Lerwick Boating Club nearby provides shower and laundry facilities and a Clubhouse for visiting sailors.
Find Out MoreAn overnight passenger ferry and ro-ro service runs between Lerwick to Aberdeen. Lerwick Ferry Terminal is located only 1km from the Town Centre.
Find Out MoreThe airport is located 25 Miles/40km from Lerwick, with a public service bus link available from Lerwick to Sumburgh. Direct daily flights to and from Aberdeen, Glasgow, Inverness/Orkney and Edinburgh.
Find Out MoreShetland Cruising Panel provides invaluable local knowledge of sailing in Shetland waters.
Find Out MoreA high profile is given to sail training ships locally. Experienced ship agency and consular assistance is available.
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