| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 19-06-2027, 19:00Lerwick, Shetland | Sat 26-06-2027, 10:00Inverness, Scotland | Eye of the Wind | 7 Nights | EYE27/30 |
Explore Scotland’s northern islands aboard Eye of the Wind, sailing from Shetland through the Orkney Islands and onwards to Inverness. This seven-night voyage combines spectacular coastal scenery, remote island communities and remarkable wildlife with traditional tall ship sailing.
Discover the maritime heritage of Shetland, explore Orkney’s ancient landscapes and enjoy longer sailing passages across the northern North Sea. Fair Isle may also feature in the itinerary, depending on weather and sailing conditions.
Help sail the ship, watch for seabirds and marine mammals, and experience the changing coastline as you approach the Scottish Highlands. No previous sailing experience is required.
| Vessel type / Rig | 2 Masted Brig |
| Guest Berths | 12 |
| Beam | 7.01m (23ft) |
| Draft | 2.7m (8.9ft) |
| Overall Length | 40.23m (132ft) |
| Year Built | 1911 |
Your voyage begins in Lerwick, the capital of Shetland and a historic harbour town with strong connections to fishing, shipping and North Sea trade. Its stone waterfront buildings, narrow streets and busy working harbour reflect centuries of maritime activity.
If you arrive a day early, explore the old town, where Commercial Street follows the waterfront past independent shops and traditional buildings. The Shetland Museum and Archives provides an excellent introduction to the islands’ history, including their Norse heritage, fishing traditions and distinctive island culture.
Shetland is also famous for its traditional knitwear, particularly Fair Isle patterns and garments made from local wool. For those interested in wildlife, Sumburgh Head offers excellent opportunities to see puffins and other breeding seabirds, while seals are frequently encountered around the coast.
When you join Eye of the Wind, the professional crew will welcome you aboard, introduce you to the ship and explain the plans for the voyage. There will be time to settle in and meet your fellow sailing guests before heading out to explore Scotland’s northern waters.
Leaving Lerwick, Eye of the Wind sails through the waters surrounding Shetland, where steep cliffs, sheltered voes and rocky headlands create a varied coastal landscape. The captain will choose a route according to the weather, with opportunities to explore island waterways and possibly visit Fair Isle, renowned for its seabird colonies and traditional knitwear. June is an excellent time for wildlife watching, with puffins, guillemots, gannets and fulmars gathering around the cliffs during the breeding season.
Continuing south, the ship approaches the Orkney Islands, an archipelago of low green hills, sandy beaches, sheltered sounds and dramatic sea cliffs. Orkney has an extraordinary concentration of prehistoric sites, including Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. If the itinerary allows time ashore, there may be opportunities to explore some of these ancient monuments or visit one of the islands’ historic harbour communities.
Throughout the voyage, guests are welcome to help sail Eye of the Wind under the guidance of the professional crew. You may take a turn at the helm, help handle sails or learn more about traditional seamanship. Participation is entirely voluntary, leaving plenty of time to relax on deck and appreciate the scenery. Longer passages between the islands provide a chance to experience the rhythm of life at sea, with sailing sometimes continuing into the evening or through the night.
The waters around Shetland and Orkney are rich in marine wildlife. Harbour porpoises, dolphins and seals are regularly encountered, while whales and orcas are occasionally spotted. Seabirds are particularly active in June, and the long daylight hours provide plenty of opportunities to watch for wildlife from deck. The islands’ sheltered bays and rocky shores also offer interesting views of coastal habitats and traditional fishing communities.
From Orkney, Eye of the Wind turns south towards the Scottish mainland, crossing the Pentland Firth and sailing along the north-east coast towards the Moray Firth. The coastline gradually changes from exposed headlands to the more sheltered waters approaching Inverness. The Moray Firth is particularly well known for its resident bottlenose dolphins, which may be spotted during the final part of the voyage.
Your voyage finishes in Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, situated on the River Ness close to the Moray Firth. The city has a compact centre, historic buildings and riverside walks, making it an enjoyable place to explore before travelling home.
If you have an extra day, take a walk along the River Ness, crossing the bridges and exploring the paths that connect the city centre with the Ness Islands. St Andrew’s Cathedral, with its distinctive red sandstone architecture, and the historic Old High Church are both worth visiting.
Inverness is also an excellent base for exploring Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands. Urquhart Castle, overlooking the loch, provides an interesting introduction to Scotland’s medieval history, while boat trips offer opportunities to experience the landscape from the water.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Moray Firth is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins. Chanonry Point, on the Black Isle, is a well-known location for watching them from shore, particularly around favourable tidal conditions.
After a week exploring Scotland’s northern islands, you’ll have experienced a fascinating contrast between remote archipelagos, open-water sailing and the more sheltered coastline of the Highlands.
Late June is an excellent time to explore Scotland’s northern islands, with long daylight hours and generally mild summer conditions. Daytime temperatures typically range from 11–15°C in Shetland and Orkney, with slightly warmer conditions possible around Inverness.
The waters around Shetland and Orkney offer a mixture of sheltered coastal sailing and more exposed passages. Fresh breezes and some swell are possible, particularly when crossing between islands or heading south towards the Scottish mainland. The Pentland Firth is known for its strong tidal streams, so the captain will plan the passage carefully around the tides and weather.
With almost 19 hours of daylight in the northern islands, there is plenty of time for sailing, sightseeing and wildlife watching. Warm layers, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear will help keep you comfortable on deck and ashore.
No previous sailing experience is necessary. The professional crew will guide you throughout, making this a rewarding introduction to traditional tall ship sailing in Scotland’s northern waters.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice.
Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail. For more on this, see our article ‘What is a Hands-On Sailing Holiday?’
We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.
When it comes to reaching Lerwick, Scotland, your voyage may have already acquainted you with the joys of traditional sailing. However, for those exploring by land or air, here are your options:
*From the UK:*
Lerwick is well-connected to the UK mainland. You can hop on a train to Aberdeen or Inverness and catch a ferry from there. Alternatively, domestic flights from major UK airports, such as Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, can whisk you to Shetland’s capital.
*From Europe:*
If you’re venturing from continental Europe, flying is your best bet. Direct flights are available from several European cities to Sumburgh Airport, which is just a scenic drive away from Lerwick. Ferries from the Scottish mainland are also an option.
*From North America:*
For our friends across the Atlantic, consider taking an international flight to one of the major UK airports mentioned earlier. From there, you can follow the UK travel route as detailed above.
*From Australia:*
Australia is a bit further afield, but the journey is worth it. You’ll likely need to take a series of long-haul flights to reach the UK first. Once on British soil, follow the same instructions for travelers from the UK.
**What to Do in Lerwick**
Lerwick, with its rich maritime history, has much to offer.
*History:*
Lerwick is steeped in history. Don’t miss Fort Charlotte, an imposing fortress with captivating tales to tell. For maritime enthusiasts, the Shetland Museum and Archives will be your treasure trove of nautical history.
*Culture:*
Immerse yourself in Shetland’s vibrant culture. The Shetland Folk Festival is a must-attend event, celebrating traditional music and dance. Explore the local arts scene at Bonhoga Gallery and indulge in the captivating Shetland dialect.
*Sites of Interest to a Sailor:*
For those with saltwater in their veins, Lerwick’s coastline offers breathtaking views. Visit the Lerwick Harbour, marvel at Bressay Lighthouse, and explore the rugged beauty of Shetland’s coast.
*Entertainment:*
When the sun dips below the horizon, Lerwick’s nightlife comes alive. Enjoy live music, sample local brews, and maybe even join in some traditional Shetland dancing.
*Eating Out:*
Lerwick’s dining scene is a treat for the taste buds. Savor fresh seafood at the Fjara Café Bar, or opt for traditional fare at The String.
*Nature:*
Lerwick is surrounded by natural beauty. Take a hike along the scenic cliffs, or venture to nearby islands for birdwatching and coastal walks.
*Unique Features:*
Lerwick’s charm lies in its unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, creating an experience unlike any other. It is well worth a visit to Clickimin Broch as shown above.
For a comfortable stay, consider these well-known options:
– The Lerwick Hotel: A central location with great amenities.
– Kveldsro House Hotel: A charming and welcoming choice.
Tourist Website
And for all the official tourist information you’ll need, head over to the Shetland.org website (https://www.shetland.org/). It’s your key to unlocking the secrets of this captivating port town.
Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes
By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to or from your voyage.
Here are some suggestions for carbon offset websites.
UK: One popular carbon offset website in the UK is “Clear” who offer a range of carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and organisations. They provide detailed information about their projects and allow users to calculate and offset their carbon footprint online.
North America: In North America, “Terrapass” is a well-known carbon offset website. Terrapass offers carbon offset projects across the United States and Canada. They provide options for individuals, businesses, and events to calculate and offset their carbon emissions. Terrapass also offers additional resources and information on sustainable living.
Europe: A popular carbon offset website in Europe is “MyClimate.” MyClimate provides carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and travel. They offer a carbon footprint calculator and allow users to support various sustainable projects worldwide. MyClimate focuses on promoting climate protection and sustainability.
Australia: “Greenfleet” is a prominent carbon offset website in Australia. Greenfleet focuses on planting native forests to offset carbon emissions. They offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to calculate and offset their carbon footprint by contributing to tree planting projects across Australia. Greenfleet provides detailed information about their projects and the positive environmental impacts they create.
Please note that these carbon offset websites may vary over time, so it is recommended to research and explore multiple options to find the most suitable one for your needs.
If any of these links do not work it would be kind of you to inform us, many thanks.
The exact location for joining your vessel isn’t likely to be known until closer to the time, make sure you have a copy of the ship’s phone number to find them on the day.
Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind
Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind
Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.
All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.
There is no internet on board whilst at sea.
The Captain's style was excellent.. so skilled, authoritative but never shouty, always caring, kind, funny & interested in people. I was So impressed that the crew were majority of girls, so strong, brave, knowledgeable & keen. 20yrs ago there might have been 1 or 2 token girls in crew & now they run the ship!
Boys also wonderful of course & chef Dennis was excellent. Im old enough to be Granny to most, but no ageism, sexism or patronising attitudes so thankyou for that.
The stops on the Danish islands were good use of time. So clean, green, pretty, & v.friendly. Unfavourable wind meant we couldn't sail as much as hoped but last day we got 12 of 15 sails up. Helming a tall ship in full sail is such a privilege. Wow.!
What a beautiful experience. Memories are priceless.
Naomi - Baltic Sea Spring 2026
Hello all at Classic
The trip went very well and was a great experience.
Everything was very well done, great captain, crew and guests.
Sea shanty singing lead by Matthew from the King's Pond Shantymen!
Best wishes, Bob. Eye of the Wind, Cadiz to the Canary Islands November 2024
A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.
John, Tortola to Bermuda
Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"
F Coutreau
What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.
Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!
Andrea
Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:
COMPETENT and KIND
And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure
Susan
With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website.
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