Shetland’s own tall ship, Swan LK243, is set to sail into history again with the commemoration of the 125th anniversary of the vessel’s launch at Hay’s Dock, Lerwick in May 1900.
To celebrate, The Swan Trust – of which Lerwick Port Authority is a supporter – is hosting an open day on board the sailing vessel at the dock this Sunday 4 May, from 10am-4pm.
An exhibition is also being held at Shetland Museum and Archives from Saturday 3 May to Sunday 22 June, charting the history of the boat and displaying artefacts, artwork and other items.
The Port Authority’s ongoing support for the Trust’s activities will include contributing to the cost of Swan’s largest upgrade since restoration in 1996, with the installation of a fully upgraded forepeak section, including improved galley area, showers, heads, storage, workshop and black and grey water tanks, in winter 2025.
Described as the finest Fifies-type fishing boat, catching whitefish and herring, Swan was retired in the 1950s, became a houseboat in Grimsby in the 1960s, derelict in Hartlepool in the 1980s, then bought for restoration and returned to Lerwick in 1991.
Perhaps the greatest contribution the Swan now makes to contemporary Shetland culture is the many hundreds of young people who have sailed on her. The Authority is a long-term supporter of youth sail training placements contributing to Sail Training Shetland's partnership with Swan to provide annual adventures for young people.
The Swan Trust was formed by volunteers in 1990, taking six years to restore the vessel and offering voyages around Shetland and further afield, including sail training. This summer, Swan will again join the Tall Ships Races when the event visits Aberdeen.
Visit The Swan Trust's website for more information.