The Unst Boat Haven, part of the Unst Heritage Trust, is dedicated to the maritime history of Shetland boats. We have 17 boats, mainly traditional Shetland, but including one from each Faroe and Norway, a Welsh coracle and a Berhon folding dinghy. A privately owned replica of a 19th century sixareen is based in the Baltasound marina during the Summer.

The boats are all traditionally built for use under oar and sail. They are double-ended, clinker built following the Viking method of construction which can be traced back around 1700 years. This provides a very light, strong, seaworthy but flexible hull, ideally suited for local conditions. The boats cover a period from the late 19th Century to the 1960's and include working and racing boats.

Apart from the boats there is plenty to see. There are models, old tools, fishing gear, documents, photographs, charts, historical information, and interpretation plus a lot more.

Open Daily

1st May - 30th September

11.00am - 5.00pm