Tape cut on new gateway for sailors to Western Isles as pontoon opened

A new berth for visiting yachts off the Inner Hebrides has been officially opened.

Situated on Mull’s Sound of Ulva, the Ulva Ferry Pontoon will provide secure berthing for incoming sightseers 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, Colon say 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.”

Boating events in the afternoon were followed by the official opening in the evening and a 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 was paid for by a grant of £451,000 from Coastal Communities Fund and support from Highlands and Island Enterprises.

“Sailing is worth over £100million to Scotland’s economy yearly”

GENERATION GAME: Jeannie MacColl and young Bruce Cutlack cut the tape