In Whalsay, Symbister is a handy stopover for cruising yachts, with a small boat marina, a pier and a nearby anchorage.
The marina currently has no visitor berths available, but there is normally space available in the harbour. There is also an anchorage nearby in North Voe but the anchor should be buoyed, because the bottom is foul with old moorings. The pier offers good berthing for around 20 visiting boats, but is well used by small commercial boats.
The area is a busy fishing harbour so yachts should be careful not to interfere with normal harbour traffic, particularly during August when the outer basin is occupied by pelagic trawlers. The approach is clear and well lit. However, fairly strong currents, both north and south of the entrance, should be noted.
The surrounding waters are yet another good place to see porpoises, dolphins, minke whales and orcas. If you are lucky enough, you might see why the Vikings called this place 'Hvals-Oy', the island of whales.
| Depth: | Inner basin 5m Outer basin 7m |
| Contact: | Willie John Jamieson: +44 (0)1806 566598 (marina) SIC Small Port Supervisor: +44 (0)1595 744221 (pier) |
| Charge: | £10 per day (Note: the marina currently has no visitor berths, but berthing is available in the harbour, fender boards recommended)
For pier, see SIC Table of Dues |
| Yacht Facilities: | Toilets, showers, fuel, fresh water, waste and waste oil disposal, repairs and chandlery, engineering services, boating club. Overwintering is not available. |
| Other Facilities: | Telephone, post office, shop, accommodation, leisure centre, swimming pool, restaurant, pub/bar, taxi service. |