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.
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The perfect way to see Shetland's South End! Board in Shetland's capital, Lerwick and disembark in Scalloway, Shetland's ancient capital. You will enjoy overnight anchorages in sheltered voes along the way and, weather depending, we may take the dinghy ashore in some locations.
Boarding the Swan 10am Friday, your stay will begin with a comprehensive safety briefing including how to work the lines on deck and set the sails. We will then put this into practice, enjoying the Swan under sail while we find a picturesque place to spend the night and get to know your crew mates over dinner before turning in for a good night’s sleep.
Saturday will begin with a hearty breakfast; you will need your strength for the halyard hauling you’re about to do! With the sails raised, enjoy your trip and further explore the delights of the Shetland coastline.
As this is a sailing trip, the exact route will be decided by our expert skipper, and weather conditions, but we hope to include a visit to Mousa and anchor for an hour or two so you can visit the Iron age broch, the finest example of its kind. Sunday evening will be spent at anchor in one of Shetland’s many sheltered southerly voes, where you can get to know your crew mates better and possibly enjoy a tune.
On Sunday, you will complete your trip north to the attractive village of Scalloway, Shetland’s ancient capital, disembarking in around lunchtime.
A voyage on Swan is very much a hands-on experience - you are part of her crew, and work as a team to make your voyage happen. All tasks are shared and everyone joins in, from the most to the least experienced. For more details of what to expect on board please refer to our Welcome Aboard leaflet.
Included in the price of this trip are sailing instruction, accommodation and all meals for the duration of your stay. For further details on what is included, and what to bring with you, please refer to our kit list.
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 SCIO are seeking a full time Skipper for Swan to oversee the busy summer sailing schedule in 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity offering the chance to work with a great team on international voyages and spend time aboard Shetland's iconic historic vessel.
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A new chair has been appointed to lead the activities of the Swan Trust SCIO, which owns and operates the Swan (LK 243) – the refurbished ex-herring drifter which has served since 1998 as the community’s sail training vessel.
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