Detail of tiller
Boats moored at Crinan Loch - Argyll & Bute
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Marinas

Marinas

Yachts moored on Loch Lochy Scotland is widely populated with marinas from the Orkney and Shetland islands in the north to the border in the south, which means that there is no doubting the country's popularity amongs cruising yachtsmen - be it under power or sail! These superbly equipped stop-off points cater for all tastes and are ideal for enjoying some time on land, refuelling or stocking up on provisions for the rest of your trip.

The West Coast

Yachts moored at the marina in Kirkcudbright Argyll's west coast is one of the heartlands of Scottish cruising. Miles of coast, hundreds of islands, and complete solitude, are an antidote to the pressure of modern life, yet this paradise is underpinned by half a dozen modern marinas, and many other boating businesses offering moorings and other services.

On the Firth of Clyde, too, there are now some twelve locations offering pontoon berthing, whether in a major marina, or a traditional harbour. The smaller marinas, and boatyards with moorings, contribute to the network of facilities which make weekend ­ or longer ­ cruising trips such a pleasure, whilst the larger yacht harbours are a destination in their own right with a fine range of facilities a few steps away.

The East Coast

A yacht moored at Gare Loch, Helensburgh New developments on Scotland's north east coast, and in the Orkney and Shetland islands (see below), have greatly improved the facilities available to visitors from across the North Sea, and many yachts from Holland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway are following their raiding and trading forebears on visits to our shores. Today, they are always welcome.

On the east coast, development proceeds apace as traditional harbours install leisure boating facilities in harbours vacated by the fishing industry. From John O'Groats to the border there are now many harbours with full scale marinas, and a host of others with mooring facilities for visitors.

The Islands

Yachts moored at the marina in Kirkcudbright For a unique and unforgettable experience take the top of Britain tour and visit Shetland by sea. Here you'll find over 100 small islands and 906 miles of coastline which include a wonderful combination of dramatic cliffs and sheltered, natural harbours and make this part of Scotland an ideal place for sailing.

Shetland has 17 marinas, although some are only suitable and deep enough for local small craft. To find out more about Shetland's mooring locations visit www.shetland.gov.uk/ports/yachting

Orkney's 3 marinas (at Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray) have been operating for the last two years, after over £6 million of investment by Orkney Islands Council in breakwaters and pontoons. During the season of 2005 Orkney attracted over 500 visiting yachts and the Orkney islands are well on their way to achieving their goal of becoming 'the northern destination of choice for cruising yachts and marine tourists'.

These facilities are operated by Orkney Marinas Limited which is a recognised Scottish charity and is run mainly on a voluntary basis by the local boat owner associations in each of the three locations. Visiting yachts are able to purchase an excellent value 'rover' ticket which covers all three marinas and all Orkney Islands Council piers and moorings throughout the Orkney archipelago. For further information visit www.orkneymarinas.co.uk