After making our way up the east coast of Fair Isle in a gently rolling sea, we entered the calm waters of the northeast harbour on Fair Isle on a cloudy but pleasant morning. A landing onto shore via Zodiac was quickly executed after breakfast, where we were greeted by a BBC film crew and the wardens from Fair Isle Bird Observatory. A leisurely walk up a gentle slope towards the cliffs resulted in some close encounters, for most, with Atlantic puffins along the clifftops. While the keen birdwatchers among the passengers were enjoying the puffins, others carried on their stroll past the Fair Bird Observatory and onto the Community Hall, which was a couple of miles along a meandering road. Some of the locals had their wares on offer, including the locally knitted Fair Isle sweaters and hats, while tea and pastries were kindly given as refreshments. A couple of hours later, everyone made their way back to the ship while the Arctic terns warded off the unfavourable attentions of the local ‘Bonxies’ and Arctic skuas.
Following a light lunch back on the ship, we arrived at our next destination, Mousa, which is further north off the east coast of the island of Shetland. This small island is home to one of the best-preserved brochs in these isles. The Mousa Broch is a large, intact, circular stone-structure that was constructed as a dwelling in 300-400 BC. It is quite remarkable to walk on the stairs inside this dwelling where our ancestors once tread over 2,000 years ago. While some enjoyed the leisurely pace of walking around the broch and immediate vicinity, others took on a nice, looping walk of the island, taking in the sights and sounds of the breeding birds and bleating lambs.
After an excellent presentation on the craft beers of Ireland in the ship’s lounge, and a helping of the local haggis as part of dinner, the ship moored at the town of Lerwick on the mainland of Shetland. Following dinner, we departed on some coaches to the local Cunningsburgh Hall and enjoyed a night of Shetland dancing and music. Fun was had by all, and it was a fitting way to finish off a wonderful day on the Scottish Isles.
