Want to get involved in maintaining and operating a traditional wooden sailing vessel? There are a number of different ways you can volunteer to safeguard, care for and sail this unique heritage asset.
Learn moreThe damage to the Swan was greater than first thought. What started off as extensive repairs became a rebuilding exercise.
She needed a new keel, new bilge stringers and all her decks were to be renewed. It was also discovered that her nails had rusted away. So, a decision was taken to replace all of the planking. In retrospect this was one of the best decisions taken, as it allowed necessary changes to be made to make the ship comply as a passenger vessel.
Skilled carpenters undertook the work through the summer of 1992. After many months of hard labour, The Swan was once again ready to take to water on Saturday 16th April 1994. A proud day for all of the committee and workmen. There was still a lot of work to do on the internal fit out however, and it would be another two years before The Swan was ready to sail again.
In 2021, a BBC Radio Shetland programme celebrated 25 years since the relaunch of the Swan, including interviews with those involved in her return to Shetland, her restoration and new life as a Sail training vessel. Listen to the programme here.
The Swan has ongoing maintenance and operation costs, and the Trust is grateful to all its supporters. Follow these links to donate or volunteer with the Trust. Anyone can sail on Swan, for details of trips available to book check out our upcoming trips
If you’d like to know more about the history or restoration, look out for 'The Swan - Shetland's legacy of sail' by James R. Nicolson, published by the Shetland Times.
Want to get involved in maintaining and operating a traditional wooden sailing vessel? There are a number of different ways you can volunteer to safeguard, care for and sail this unique heritage asset.
Learn more
The Swan Trust has undertaken a range of charters over the years. Last year this included a professional photoshoot aboard the Swan for local knitwear designer Mati Ventrillon, as part of her Artisans project.
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Sail Training Shetland are inviting applications from young people aged 15 – 25 to take part in The Tall Ships Races 2023, with a series of free Taster Day Sails aboard the Swan in April to whet the appetite. Young people from all over Shetland can apply for an inspiring, action-packed voyage at sea, providing a unique experience, the opportunity for travel, international friendships, and host port festivals.
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