Moorings in Orkney and Shetland

Orkney and Shetland are the northern isles off the Scottish mainland. Kirkwall and Stromness are the main harbours in Orkney, and Lerwick is the main harbour in Shetland, whose coastline runs to around 1,700 miles. Berths for leisure boats are concentrated in a few sheltered town harbours.

In Orkney, Orkney Marinas Ltd, a Scottish charity based in Kirkwall, runs three marinas: Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray. Kirkwall Marina takes boats up to 20 metres, has shore power and water, toilets and showers and a superintendent, and berths are charged by the day, week or month. Stromness harbour was rebuilt in 1893 and is also the base for ferries and the town's lifeboat.

In Shetland, Lerwick Port Authority runs a sheltered, deep-water harbour with two entrances, open around the clock and in all weathers. Lerwick sees around 500 visiting yachts a year alongside its ferry, fishing and cruise traffic.

Westray Marina completes the Orkney network. Across both island groups, moorings in Orkney and Shetland are limited in number and concentrated in these island harbours, so a long-term berth is usually arranged directly with Orkney Marinas or with the port authority in Lerwick. The marinas make practical bases for exploring the North Isles of Orkney and Shetland's long coastline.