Mousa Boat Trips

Solan IV Arriving at Sandsayre Pier, Leebitton

No visit to Shetland can be complete without a visit to the magnificent Mousa Broch. But there's a catch: Mousa Broch is on an island a mile off the east coast of Mainland Shetland about 15 miles south of Lerwick.

On Board Solan IV Waiting Room and Exhibition Area Mousa Flitboat in Exhibition

The solution lies with Mousa Boat Trips, who for 35 years have been carrying visitors across the Sound of Mousa to Mousa and its broch. The vessel in use today is the Solan IV and can carry 60 passengers. The original Solan in 1971 could carry just 12.

Mousa Boat Trips operates from the well signposted Sandsayre Pier, at Leebitton in Sandwick. There is ample parking and public conveniences nearby. A waiting room and exhibition area has been built by the pier, giving background about Mousa and the boats that have served it: and displaying the old Mousa flit boat.

Mousa Broch

RSPB Office, Mousa

The crossing takes about 15 minutes. The timetable changes mid season each year, so it is important to check times on the operator's website. This is also where you can find information about current fares. Booking is advisable, and it is recommended to check ahead by phone to ensure adverse weather has not prevented that day's sailing.

Solan IV at Mousa