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 more30 September 2024
Over 150 people were welcomed on board Swan recently as the boat opened the decks as part of the national Doors Open Day campaign.
Doors Open Days is Scotland's largest free festival that celebrates places and stories, new and old. Many public and private buildings and facilities open their doors to welcome the public in for a look at spaces which are not always available to visit.
Swan took part in the Shetland weekend which was on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st September. 37 people visited on the Friday and there were more than 120 on the Saturday. Those who came along had a chance to see into the engine room, saloon, galley and even try out the bunks. AJ Noble, Jason Noble and Darcy Noble managed to fit into one bunk as they checked out the sleeping quarters on board. (pictured)
The open day was a good chance for some of the charitie's Trustees to meet with the public and tell them more about the history and current operations of the boat - which celebrates it's 125th anniversary in May 2025.
Paul Robinson from Yell also came along and brought his amazing scale model of Swan which he has painstakingly made by hand over the last year. The prize winning model has a motor and can be sailed by remote control.
Among those who visited, was Daniel Clark and his daughter Enid Gear. It was Enid's first time on board the boat and while she was aprehensive at first, like many trainees who embark on a sail training trip, she was converted in the end and may be a future sail trainee!
After Doors Open Day, Swan has one further public sail in the summer schedule and will then berth in Scalloway for the winter.
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
In planning an exhibition to mark 125 years since the launch of Swan LK243, Trustees are looking to the Shetland public to loan items for display that would be of interest in charting in the Swan’s history.
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Have you got what it takes to spend 4 months sailing international waters, making new friends, and supporting crew and passengers aboard a traditional sailing boat; exploring the stunning Shetland coastline and taking part in the world famous Tall Ships Races?
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