Fair Isle

59°32’.30N 001°36’.30W
Because of its location, Fair Isle is the ideal stop for those travelling by sea to Shetland
Contact Name Jimmy Stout
Telephone +44 (0) 1595 760 222
Email james.stout@sic.shetland.gov.uk
Fair Isle
Fair Isle

Fair Isle is a beautiful island 6km long by 3km wide. Its 70 inhabitants live mostly at the south end, a walk of about 3km from the beautiful sandy harbour at the north. When at the south, visitors can enjoy the small museum, see traditional Fair Isle knitting and visit the well-stocked local shop. There is also opportunity to view the construction of spinning wheels and straw backed chairs.

Near the harbour is the newly completed Fair Isle Lodge - world famous since 1948 as a bird observatory - here one can get a talk by a skilled ornithologist on the work which they do, along with a demonstration of ringing, weighing and measuring of birds. Meals, bar facilities, toilets and shower facilities are all available at the Lodge. Internet access is also available.
Comprehensive weather briefings available.

Quay Capability

Class A No
Class B Yes
Class C & D Yes

Port Facilities

Anchorage Yes
Berthing Depth 5m
Pilot Available No
Tug Available No
 

Distances in Nautical Miles - Greenock 450 Lerwick 40

Harbour Conditions

  • Quay - Length 50m • Depth 5m
  • Tidal Considerations 1.5 - 1.7m rise/fall
  • Safe anchorage for larger vessels in Bay of Furse just outside harbour

Available For Crews

Activities/Excursions

  • Guided trips arranged by Fair Isle
  • Lodge warden - birds, flowers, archaeology, weather etc
  • Swimming
  • Barbeque, local music, beach party with licensed bar
  • Excellent seabirds, especially puffin colonies
  • Interesting museum
  • Football - Fair Isle v Rest of the World

Sports Facilities

General Facilities

  • Fresh water
  • Showers and toilets available at Fair Isle
  • Lodge - 200m from harbour
  • Meals/Bar facilities at Fair Isle Lodge
  • General store in village area - 2 miles from harbour