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Join tall ship Flying Dutchman as she sails from Lerwick in the Shetlands Islands, exploring Fair Isle and the Orkneys before sailing to Ullapool on the Scottish coast.
Join tall ship the Flying Dutchman on the Shetland Islands in the main port of Lerwick. This adventure sailing holiday will see you sailing south through the Shetlands Islands, stopping at Fiar Isle before exploring the Orkney Islands.
Perfect for those looking to explore remote locations while discovering the natural beauty and ancient history on land and experiencing traditional tall ship sailing.
- Fully crewed tall ship
- Orkney Explorer
- Shetland Islands
- Wildlife Watching
- Traditional sailing
- Private ensuite cabins
- Half-board
- Hands-on Experience
- Fully Crewed
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
YOUR SAILING AREA
Lerwick to Ullapool, Scotland
Join the Flying Dutchman in Lerwick on the Shetland Islands. About 22,000 people live in this archipelago, which is known for the ponies named after it, the large bird colonies, and its natural beauty. With its stunning natural landscapes, including dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches, Shetland offers a rich and diverse wildlife. The islands also have a unique cultural heritage, with strong Norse influences and a vibrant traditional music scene.
As a sailing ship, we are largely dependent on the weather. The programme below is a guideline only and is subject to the influence of weather, currents and especially the wind. This may mean we may have to skip or call at ports other than those described below. Flexibility is the rule, especially on this trip!
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Spend a few days exploring the Shetland Island before setting the sails towards the tiny island of Fair Isle. Fair Isle, the geographically most remote inhabited island of the United Kingdom. The island has around 60 inhabitants and can be cut off from the outside world for weeks, particularly during winter, because of the weather. The island is famous for its traditional knitwear patterns and is a haven for birdwatchers due to its diverse bird population and migratory patterns.
Our next stop will be the Orkney Islands. This group of islands comprises 200 islands, with the largest one being called the ‘mainland’. Our destination is Kirkwall, which is the capital of the Orkney Islands. There are plenty of interesting sights to explore on the Orkney Islands, ranging from Neolithic sites like ‘Skara Brae’ and the ‘Stones of Stenness’ to the remains of the German naval fleet that sank in ‘Scapa Flow’ after the First World War. We will also aim to visit the two famous distilleries of Highland Park, and Scapa!
Finish your Scottish sailing holiday in Ullapool. The rugged landscape around Ullapool is known for its natural beauty, wildlife and many bird species.
Things to note
Sailing vs Shoretime
Nightwatches?
Travel insurance notes
As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.
Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.
This voyage will be more than 12 miles offshore.
Life Onboard the Flying Dutchman
One of traditional sailing, sea-faring tales and breath-taking destinations, sailing with the Flying Dutchman is a far cry from its ancestral name. Although a traditionally rigged vessel with an authentic wooden boat feel throughout, the Flying Dutchman has been fitted as a charter vessel to a high, modern standard – providing guests with an authentic sailing experience while ensuring comfort and mod-cons are not forgotten.
Enjoy a balance of traditional sailing, harnessing the power of the wind, and exploring ashore in hard-to-reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Offering sailing tall ship holidays in Scotland and the Hebrides, the Flying Dutchman aims to give guests a traditional tall ship adventure. Family owned and operated, the Flying Dutchman is perfect for solo travellers, couples or older families looking for that classic tall ship experience, making memories that will certainly last a lifetime.
Getting Involved
The crew encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing this fascinating schooner. She is traditionally rigged but also has a winch system, so it can be sailed comfortably by the crew if guests simply want to put their feet up and enjoy the views! From hoisting the sails, basic rope work and even some simple navigation skills, you can get involved as much or as little as you’d like. Once the sails are up, you can enjoy the beauty of silently crossing the ocean using just the power of the wind.
Sleeping, eating and Relaxation
A designated chef ensures you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and soft and hot drinks are all included in the half-board ticket price. Evening meals aboard are not included (unless you are tucked up in a secluded anchorage!), and this is done so that guests can experience true Scottish hospitality ashore and support the local economy while enjoying sustainable, local produce.
The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes, providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks, and all cabins have air conditioning or heating. All bedding and towels are provided.
The rear deck is layered with wood, emphasising the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck, there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on. This area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.
What’s included
The Flying Dutchman works on a half board basis to give guests a chance to experience the local cuisine. All breakfasts, tea, coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included in the ticket price) and eating ashore (not included in the ticket price). If the Flying Dutchman is not able to go ashore for any reason (weather related), guests will be able to eat onboard!
- All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
- Full crew plus tuition
- Marina and fuel fees
- All tender trips to and fro the boat
- Lifejacket
What’s not included
- Eating ashore
- Waterproofs
- Any flights
- Transit hotels
- Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
- Travel insurance
- Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
- Crew tips
- Personal expenses
Kit list
The Flying Dutchman has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. Each bunk is allocated a storage chest to store your items, but there is no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack.
We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those who have sailed before may have their preferences!
- Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
- Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
- Please consider waterproof sailing boots
- Flip-flops or crocs for wet room showering
- Swimsuit and swim towel (optional)
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)
It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!
- Warm, windproof and waterproof coat and trousers.
- Sun cream (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
- Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
- Refillable water bottle
- Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
- Camera/binoculars
- Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
- Smidge’ midge repellent – only necessary when sailing in Scotland
- Sleep masks and/or earplugs! (optional)
- Charging cables for personal devices
- A good book to read!
- Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring
Travel Documents
- Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.
From: Lerwick, Shetland
To: Ullapool
Getting There
Lerwick, Shetland Islands
You can also fly to Lerwick with connecting flights to Aberdeen and Inverness, which can provide convenient connections to other destinations in Scotland and the UK.
GETTING HOME
ULLAPOOL
BY RAIL
There are no rail links to Ullapool, but the nearest station is Garve. From there, you can get train links to the city of Inverness, where you can pick up connections to most of the UK. Garve station is about a 40-minute taxi drive from Ullapool. Check ScotRail for timetables.
BY AIR
Direct flights into Inverness (INV) Airport are about one hour to Ullapool by car/taxi. This is the easiest way to Ullapool. There is a bus service from the airport into Inverness which takes about 30 minutes.
Flying Dutchman
Guest berths: 24 Rig: Schooner
The Flying Dutchman has a vast 480m² sail area to propel her through the water. The experienced crew will take care of everything aboard; however, if guests wish, they are welcome to join the crew, hoisting the sails or taking the helm. She’s perfect for solo travellers and couples of all ages and abilities.
The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal space to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. Below decks, there are ten ensuite cabins for guests with bunk beds, all with heating and air-conditioning.
On the main deck, there are three different tables and couches to sit on; this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.
Deck plan

Berths on board
Single berth in shared Twin Cabin Ensuite: The Standard twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite.
Single berth in shared Twin Plus Ensuite Cabin: The Plus twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite. The Plus cabin is slightly larger than the Standard cabin, offering more floor space. Ideal for solo travellers sharing.
Twin Cabin Ensuite (solo occupancy): The Standard twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite. This is a private option for solo travellers who would like their own cabin.
More about Flying DutchmanAre all meals included?
Breakfast & soft/hot drinks are included. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included).
Can you cater for dietary needs?
Strict vegan diets are not able to be catered for. Gluten (not celiac) or lactose free diets may be possible with pre-planning for the chef.
Are there any added extra's?
Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included). Any onshore excursion fees are not included. There is a £90pp per week cash payment onboard for guests, if they would like to serve themselves beer & wine, snacks, soft drinks, that are set out in the saloon for guests each day. This is optional and cash only. Guests then wash up anything from these snacks themselves. This is instead of an honesty bar.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
11x twin ensuite cabins
Is there a porthole in my cabin?
Yes, every cabin has a porthole.
How many toilet/showers does she have?
11
Are bedding and towels included?
All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.
Is there a hairdryer on board?
No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!
Will I be able to wash my clothes?
No, the Flying Dutchman does not have laundry on board.
Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?
Yes.
Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but very much appreciated.
What language is spoken onboard?
German/English.
Is there WIFI?
No! It's time to disconnect from the modern conforms and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.
Can I charge my phone/Camera?
Yes, there are 220v sockets in every cabin so please bring a 2pin EU adaptor.
What is the currency on board?
Euros.
Are there life jackets provided?
Yes.
How do I get on and off the boat?
The Flying Dutchman is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy, and climbing up and over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.
Are waterproofs provided?
No, please bring your own.
Do I need sailing experience?
No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.
Does the boat have any water toys?
Flying Dutchman has some fishing rods that are available for guests to use.
Will I be sea sick?
Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.
Is there an age limit?
Over 18's only - no upper age limit, only one rule: You must be able to climb stairs. 16 years old with a mature guardian is sometimes possible.
More holidays in Scotland
Mile Builder Sailing UK: Scotland to Cornwall
Exploring the Caledonian Canal from Oban to Inverness
A Sailor’s Voyage from Scotland to Cornwall
Hebridean Sailing & Wildlife Encounters Mull, Skye and the Small Isles
More holidays on Flying Dutchman
Tall Ship Sailing, Whisky Distilleries & Folk Music in Scotland
Offshore Sailing from Inverness to Amsterdam
Exploring the Caledonian Canal from Oban to Inverness
Inspiration for your voyage
Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below. Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below.
JOURNAL










































