Shetland Islands marinas

Shetland lies between the North Sea and the North Atlantic. Sounds divide the larger islands, while the coastline forms deep inlets, exposed headlands, and small harbours.

Lerwick on Mainland’s east coast can provide a first introduction after a sea crossing. The onward route depends on which parts of the archipelago you choose: neighbouring islands do not mean that every passage is sheltered.

Ashore, Lerwick’s stone houses give way to small settlements and open landscapes. Cliff walks and seabird watching can be combined with visits to island harbours. Individual islands deserve time, rather than treating the whole archipelago as one brief stop.