Sailing

The waters around the Orkney Isles have been attracting yachtsmen and women from as far afield as Norway and Brittany for many years, drawn by the spectacular coastline, the many sheltered anchorages, and the traditional hospitality in Orkney's delightful harbours.

Orkney is ideally placed as a central base for cruising both the East and West Coast of Scotland, and linking to Shetland and Norway. The new marinas in Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray create berthing and comfort facilities for visiting yachts-people and locals alike, and place Orkney high on the Scottish coastal cruising agenda.

Around the smaller isles, tiny harbours with friendly hotels, suppliers and essential services abound. Every island is different, with a fascinating history and many ancient stones and sites.

Sailing in Orkney is sailing in its purest form, with dramatic scenery, a wealth of wildlife and challenging conditions, which are all excellent reasons to make Orkney your next sailing adventure!

Events

If you’re interested in competing in local races, there are various events throughout the sailing  calendar when all visiting boats and crews are welcome.

In July each year, the popular Orkney Challenge Yacht Race from Lossiemouth to Kirkwall takes place, which brings a friendly throng to the harbours. Old friends meet up and newcomers become old friends.

Find yourself anchoring in Orkney soon, whenever you come the welcome will be warm.

Facilities

Kirkwall Marina – VHF 14, Piermaster – t. (01856) 872292,
Marina – t. 07810 465 835, Lat N58 d 59.3’ Long W02d 57.45’.
This marina has 95-berths within the harbour and just yards from the attractions of this ancient port. Accessible at all states of tide, all-year facility, excellent shelter. Showers available at Kirkwall Sailing Club. All other facilities can be found close to the harbour.

Stromness Marina – VHF 14, Piermaster – t. (01856) 850 744, Marina – t. 07810 465 825, Lat N58 d 57.4’ Long W03d 17.5’.
This marina has 64-berths within the harbour amnd just yards from this historic town. Accessible at all states of tide, all-year facility, excellent shelter. Showers, toilets and laundry on site. All other facilities can be found close to the harbour.

Westray Marina – VHF 14, Piermaster – t. (01857) 677 216,
Marina – t. 07787 364934, Lat N59 d 19.4’ Long W2d 58.5’.
This marina is a serviced visitor pontoon facility with Pierowall Harbour. Accessible at all states of tide, summer facility, excellent shelter. Showers and toilets on site.

For further details on sailing, piers, moorings and much more contact
Orkney Marinas, Grassethowe, St Ola, Kirkwall, KW15 1SE;
Tel. (01856) 871313 e. info@orkneymarinas.co.uk or go to www.orkneymarinas.co.uk


Orkney Sailing Competitions 2009

June 5th - Stronsay Sailing Regatta
June 13th - Finstown Regatta
June 20th - Round Shapinsay Yacht Race

July 4th - Longhope Sailing Regatta
July 11th - Holm Yacht and Single Handed Dinghy Regatta
July 18th - Stromness Sailing Regatta
July 25th - Westray Sailing Regatta
July 31st to August 2nd - Kirkwall Sailing Regatta

August 15th - Holm Sailing Regatta
August 29th - Mowat Memorial Trophy - Round Gairsay yacht race