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
Join us for a day sail to Foula, Shetland’s most isolated community, which lies around 15 nautical miles from the Shetland mainland. You will join the Swan in the picturesque village of Walls, situated on the west side of Shetland, and head out past the isles of Linga and Vaila whilst hoisting sails for some classic sailing on our traditional wooden vessel.
Trip duration: 9am - 5pm
Joining the Swan in Walls at 9am, your day will begin with a comprehensive safety briefing including how to work the lines on deck and set the sails. We will then slip lines and head out past the isles of Linga and Vaila whilst hoisting sails.
From there it’s a pretty sail to Foula, which lies a little south-west of Walls, around 15 nautical miles from the Shetland mainland.
When nearing the island, tide, weather conditions and time available will dictate if we anchor and take the dinghy into Foula to explore the island or sail around the island to take in its rugged beauty.
Sailing around Foula you will see spectacular cliffs and wildlife, including breath taking views of Da Kame, Britain's second highest sea cliff, which stands at a staggering 1200 feet, on the West side of the island. These cliffs really are a sight to behold.
If conditions allow us to drop anchor and take the dinghy into Foula, you can explore the island, including one of Foula’s highlights - the Sneck o’ da Smallie, a deep rock-cleft on the south-west coast.
Please note: We will not have time to both visit the island and sail around it. The chosen activity on the day will be decided by the skipper, to take best advantage of the conditions.
A lunch of soup and sandwiches will be served before making your return to Walls, disembarking around 5pm.
You will take an active part in sailing the Swan, including hauling on ropes, taking a turn on the helm, and keeping a lookout. No previous sailing experience is needed, just a willingness to learn, participate and enjoy.
Included in voyage
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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