Reflects Resilient Performance and Positive Outlook
Lerwick Harbour supported a broad mix of maritime activity during 2025, with increased cargo volumes and steady operational demand across several sectors underpinning a positive outlook for the year ahead.
During the twelve months to 31 December 2025, the port recorded 5,646 vessel arrivals, a decrease of 3% compared with the previous year. Total vessel tonnage was 16.4 million gross tonnes, down 6% reflecting some year-on-year variation in vessel movements.
Oil-related vessel activity saw a modest reduction in arrivals of 2%, alongside a 24% reduction in tonnage compared against 2024 figures, which included significant one-off project activity involving Pioneering Spirit. Fishing vessel arrivals were slightly lower, down 5% over the year.
Despite these changes in vessel activity, cargo throughput increased by 3% to 911,440 tonnes. Oil-related cargo rose significantly by 40% to 66,927 tonnes, supported by subsea decommissioning projects and wider offshore operations served from Lerwick Harbour. Roll-on/roll-off cargo also saw a small increase of 1% maintaining consistent freight links.
Passenger numbers totalled 291,729, a decrease of 5% compared to 2024. Ferry passengers accounted for 161,775, down 3%, while cruise passengers reached 129,954 during the year, a reduction of 6% following a strong previous season.
In the fishing sector, 218,832 boxes of whitefish were landed at Lerwick, down 8% on the previous year. Market values for whitefish and pelagic fish remained very strong.
Pilotage movements increased by 6% to 1,327, while the tonnage of vessels piloted decreased by 13% to 16.9 million gross tonnes reflecting a shift in vessel size and activity.
Capt. Calum GrainsChief Executive“Lerwick Harbour continued to support a wide range of maritime activity during 2025, with consistent demand across our core sectors and strong operational performance.
“While vessel numbers and tonnage have varied compared with the previous year, the overall picture demonstrates the strength of our diverse business with growth in cargo and continued activity across energy, fishing and cruise sectors.”
Looking ahead, oil and gas support activity is expected to continue through 2026, alongside opportunities linked to offshore energy developments and subsea decommissioning.
Investment in harbour infrastructure continues, including the final phase of dredging works to widen and deepen areas of the middle harbour at North Ness Channel, Mair’s Pier, Gremista and Dales Voe. The project, due for completion in autumn 2026, will enhance access and operational capacity.
Captain Grains adds, “With continued investment and encouraging activity across several sectors, we are well placed to build on this performance and continue supporting the industries and communities that rely on Lerwick Harbour.”
