A new berth for visiting yachts off the Inner Hebrides was officially opened at the weekend.
Situated on Mull’s Sound of Ulva, the Ulva Ferry Pontoon will now provide secure berthing for incoming site seers and local users.
Mull and Iona Community Trust and USCA (Ulva School Community Association) provided the eight-berth pontoon on North West Mull, which was officially opened on Saturday.
Cally Fleming, Ulva Ferry Development Officer, said: “We are delighted that the project is completed. The pontoon will provide the only secure berthing on the West of Mull, opening up more sailing and berthing opportunities in this stunning coastal area of Scotland.
“It will be part of the growing marine tourism sector, with sailing worth over £100million to Scotland’s economy each year.
“The pontoon will complement other facilities at Tobermory, Salen Jetty, Lochaline and Mallaig, and will be a stepping stone to the islands of Coll, Tiree, the Small Isles and the Western Isles in the west and north and to Jura, Islay, Colonsay and Ireland in the south.
“Facilities will include fresh water, electricity, fuel and wi-fi and access to nearby award winning restaurants. We are looking forward to welcoming boats from the Clyde and from all around the UK and beyond to sample what Mull has to offer.”
The opening events included boating and activities in the afternoon followed by the official opening in the evening, followed ceilidh.
Iain Thomson, convenor of USCA added: “This is great news for the area and is part of our local community plan to provide employment and support local businesses in this fragile area of Mull. The pontoon will complement the other local projects of affordable house and community transport provision and ultimately support the aims of USCA for a sustainable community, supporting the local school.”
Thanks to a grant of £451,000 from Coastal Communities Fund and support from HIE, the pontoon has been supplied by Gael Force Engineering and installed by Mull-based North West Marine, Gerry Kangley Construction, John Howard Marine Electrical Services as well as other local contractors.