Shetland's capital until 1708, and today the second biggest settlement in Shetland, the village of Scalloway boasts a rich heritage, with evidence of occupation as far back as the Iron Age.
Overview
Without any suitable anchorages, Scalloway offers berthing at the South Commercial pier for ships up to 140 meters, with a 7 meter draft. We can also offer anchorages at some of our outer isles, such as Fair Isle, Foula, Papa Stour, Fetlar, and Unst, contact us for further details.
In Norse times, Scalloway was the landing place for delegates attending Shetland's annual parliament or 'Ting', held on the Lawting Holm in Tingwall Loch, two miles north of the village. Being centrally located, Scalloway is just a ten minute drive from Shetland’s capital, Lerwick, and is also a good base to discover many of Shetland's well known attractions, such as Jarlshof, Sumburgh Head and St Ninian's Isle.
Scalloway itself enjoys a beautiful setting and is easy to explore on foot. Points of interest include an impressive 16th century castle, a Category A-listed former laird's 'haa', a wonderful museum and several sites linked to the 'Shetland Bus' operation – a series of daring Second World War missions between Shetland and Norway.
You can find out more about Shetland, and activities available here: Shetland Cruise | Make the most of your cruise visit to Shetland
Services
The Harbour should be contacted by all visiting vessels to confirm any tidal restrictions on proposed berthing dates. A compulsory pilotage service is operated for all passenger vessels.
Popular excursions
Beyond Scalloway, Shetland offers five unique and remote island destinations providing a truly authentic experience:
Fair Isle – Famed for its birdlife, iconic knitwear, and dramatic cliffs. A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking island charm.
Foula – One of Britain’s most remote inhabited islands, offering towering sea cliffs, seabird colonies, and a peaceful way of life steeped in Norse history.
Papa Stour – Known for its sea caves, geology, and marine life. A rugged destination with rich folklore and untouched beauty.
Fetlar – The ‘Garden of Shetland’, home to rare bird species like red-necked phalaropes and stunning coastal landscapes.
Unst (Baltasound) – Britain’s most northerly island, offering Viking heritage, dramatic scenery, and warm island hospitality.
Fair Isle - Remote, Rugged, Remarkable
Fair Isle is a jewel in the North Sea, famed for its dramatic cliffs, world-renowned knitwear, and vibrant seabird colonies. Positioned midway between Shetland and Orkney, this tiny island offers cruise visitors a rare and intimate encounter with both nature and tradition. Home to just a few dozen residents, Fair Isle welcomes guests with warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery. Watch puffins nest along the cliffs, learn about traditional wool craft, and experience the unique rhythm of island life in one of Britain’s most remote and enchanting communities.
Foula - Scotland’s Wild Edge
Foula is one of the UK’s most remote and dramatic islands, offering cruise guests a rare glimpse into a way of life shaped by the sea and solitude. Towering sea cliffs, vast seabird colonies, and sweeping moorland make this rugged outpost a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers. With a population of fewer than 30, Foula’s warm island hospitality and untouched landscape offer an experience that is both humbling and unforgettable. For those seeking raw beauty, rich folklore, and true isolation, Foula is an extraordinary addition to any cruise itinerary.
Papa Stour - A Hidden Gem of Geological Wonder
Papa Stour is a small island with a big story to tell. Known for its breathtaking sea caves, arches, and sculpted cliffs, the island is a geological treasure trove shaped by ancient volcanic forces. Cruise visitors can enjoy guided walks, spot seals and seabirds along the dramatic coastline, and uncover traces of Norse settlement and folklore woven into the island’s history. With fewer than a dozen residents, Papa Stour offers an intimate and peaceful experience — a truly off-the-beaten-path destination where natural beauty and heritage meet in spectacular fashion.
Fetlar - The Garden of Shetland
Known as the "Garden of Shetland," Fetlar is a lush and tranquil island that delights cruise visitors with its vibrant wildlife, rich history, and peaceful charm. The island is a haven for birdwatchers, with rare species such as the red-necked phalarope nesting in its wetlands, while sweeping beaches and gentle hills offer scenic walks and stunning views. Fetlar’s heritage is steeped in Viking lore and ancient settlements, and its welcoming community ensures a warm and memorable island experience. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking serenity, Fetlar offers a softer side to Shetland’s rugged beauty.
Baltasound, Unst – The Top of Britain
Baltasound, the most northerly harbour in the UK, nestled on the island of Unst — a place where wild beauty, Viking heritage, and unique geology converge. Unst offers cruise visitors a truly unforgettable experience: explore the dramatic cliffs of Hermaness National Nature Reserve, home to thousands of seabirds and sweeping views over Muckle Flugga, the UK’s northernmost lighthouse. Wander through traces of ancient Norse settlements, visit the replica Viking longhouse and galley at Haroldswick, and discover the island’s quirky charm — from local knitwear to Britain’s most northerly post office. Baltasound is where adventure meets authenticity at the edge of the map.
