Council SIC Earns £40k from Cruise Visits, Fair Isle Most Active Harbour
The Shetland Islands Council (SIC) has reported earnings of nearly £40,000 from cruise ship visits during the current financial year. A significant portion of this income, over £24,500, was generated from Fair Isle.
Income Breakdown from Cruise Visits
According to freedom of information figures, the total income for the year 2025/26 stands at £39,426.25. The earnings were sourced from various ports, summarized as follows:
- Fair Isle: £24,526
- Foula: £5,860
- Papa Stour: £3,300
- Scalloway: £2,220
- Baltasound: £1,800
- Fetlar: £1,475
Fair Isle has consistently been the top revenue-generating port for the SIC since 2021/22, highlighting its increasing importance in cruise tourism.
Recent and Upcoming Cruise Traffic
This year, Fair Isle experienced 31 cruise calls, with other ports receiving the following visits:
- Foula: 11 visits
- Papa Stour: 7 visits
- Baltasound: 6 visits
- Fetlar: 4 visits
- Scalloway: 3 visits
For 2026, early bookings indicate continued interest, with 18 visits scheduled for Fair Isle and several for other minor ports.
Community Impact and Future Opportunities
Locals on Fair Isle have expressed a generally positive view of cruise tourists. Eileen Thomson, a resident involved in managing cruise ship visits, emphasized the economic benefits to the community. She noted that about half of the households on the island personally benefit from cruise-related activities.
Local initiatives during cruise visits include:
- Community hall teas and homebakes
- Sales from local crafters and the school
- Guided bird walks by the Fair Isle Bird Observatory
- Open access to the local museum
Community leaders, including Councillor Robert Thomson, have highlighted the need for balanced growth in cruise tourism. Plans to explore the potential for increasing cruise visits are ongoing, taking into account the unique needs of small communities.
Promoting Shetland as a Cruise Destination
The SIC is actively promoting its ports for cruise calls. A recent video campaign showcased Scalloway and highlighted the unique experiences available at Shetland’s ports. These initiatives aim to attract smaller adventure-style ships while ensuring authentic experiences.
In summary, the council’s efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing cruise traffic while considering community capacities. Shetland’s ports continue to draw attention for their natural beauty and cultural heritage, setting the stage for further growth in cruise tourism.
