Lerwick

Lerwick is the capital and main port of the Shetland Islands, Scotland,  located more than 100 miles (160 km) off the north coast of mainland Great Britain on the east coast of the Shetland Mainland. Lerwick is about 210 miles (340 km) north of Aberdeen, 230 miles (370 km) west of Bergen in Norway and 230 miles (370 km) south east of Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands.

Lerwick is to be visited as part of the Tall Ships Race, Cruise in Company in 2011. It is also the start of the second leg Lerwick - Stavanger.

Special arrangements have been made for crew transfers and the predicted increase in volume of traffic to and from the Shetland Islands during the Tall Ships Race 2011. Please refer to either your specific joining instructions for your vessel or look at this link.

Accommodation on the island will be at a premium during the Tall Ships Race, before and after. Please book well in advance.

Port Background Information

Lerwick is a name with roots in Old Norse and its local descendant, Norn, which was spoken in Shetland until the mid-19th century. The name "Lerwick" means bay of clay. The corresponding Norwegian name is Leirvik, leir meaning clay and vik meaning "bay" or "inlet". Towns with similar names exist in south western Norway (Leirvik) and on the Faroe Islands as well.

The major atttraction of the Shetland Islands, is the natural beauty, clean beaches, friendly people and warm welcome that you will receive.

Shetland Tourism is a good source of local information, including local events, getting around and places to stay.