Ulsta is at the south-western tip of Yell. The small community run pontoon is located in the shelter of the Ulsta ferry terminal.
The community-run Ulsta pontoon is in a fantastic location at the Southern end of Yell sound, allowing exploration of the local area and its numerous anchorages and harbours.
It could also make a great jump off point for the islands of Unst and Fetlar, or if continuing westward to other parts of Shetland or further afield to the Faroe Islands or Iceland.
The small marina is an L-shaped pontoon system, one arm being 20m and the other 10m. It is predominantly used by small local boats but space should be available for cruising boats to tie up. Visiting yachts should use the east side of the pontoon as piles and the proximity of the small breakwater on the west side make it unsuitable for larger craft.
Situated inshore from the ferry terminal, it is not visible from boats travelling through Yell Sound. There are channel markers, visible from Yell Sound, that direct boats into the marina. However, caution must be exercised by deep-draft vessels, which may have insufficient depth at low water once they have passed through the markers.
Care should be taken to allow arriving and departing ferries unhindered navigation.
The ferry terminal’s toilets are available and there is a well stocked shop located at the head of the pontoon. The shop can supply road diesel or petrol, but jerrycans will be required. It may be possible to get fresh water, but this would need to be arranged in advance. Electricity is not available.
| Depth (low water): | Channel dredged to 4m and berths 2m+ at low water |
| Contact: | Will John Anderson: +44 (0)1957 722231, willjohnanderson@gmail.com |
| Charges: | Donations appreciated |
| Yacht facilities: | Toilets at nearby ferry terminal, fresh water (by prior arrangement only), slip, fuel available (jerrycans required) |
| Other facilities: | Post office, shop, easy access to ferry and buses, taxi service. The West Yell public hall ( approx. 1 mile) has regular events. |