Historic Slipway Reopened in Scalloway to Honor Shetland Bus Legacy

The bond between Shetland and Norway is set to be celebrated with the formal opening of the reconstructed Prince Olaf slipway in Scalloway on October 5, 2023, at 14:30. This slipway, a replica of the original built in 1942, played a crucial role during the Second World War, serving as a site for essential repairs to boats involved in the covert Shetland Bus operation. The restoration of this historic structure emphasizes Scalloway’s significant contribution to wartime efforts.

The slipway’s opening will coincide with the presence of the former Norwegian fishing vessel, the Haugefisk, which will be open to the public at Victoria Pier in Lerwick on October 4 from 10:00 to 16:00, and on October 5 from 10:00 to 12:00. The vessel is a museum boat, adding to the historical context of the events taking place in the region this week. Notably, the father of Svein Sandvik, the current skipper, was involved in the Shetland Bus operation.

Commemorative Ceremonies and Community Involvement

Following the opening ceremony of the slipway, a memorial will take place at the Shetland Bus memorial in Scalloway at 15:15. This ceremony will honor the memory of the 44 men who lost their lives during the Shetland Bus operation, with wreaths laid in tribute. To facilitate these events, Scalloway’s Main Street will be closed between 14:00 and 16:00.

Entry to the slipway event on Thursday is by invitation only, but members of the public are encouraged to observe from the road. Additional commemorative activities are planned, including a wreath-laying ceremony at Lunna on October 6.

This week’s events follow a series of activities in May that marked VE Day, which included a ‘Liberation Convoy’ of boats sailing from Norway. During World War II, small boats, collectively known as the Shetland Bus, transported people and weapons between Shetland and Norway, with Scalloway ultimately becoming the operational base for these missions after initially starting at Catfirth.

The restoration of the Prince Olaf slipway not only serves as a physical reminder of the historical ties between Shetland and Norway but also provides a venue for reflection and remembrance of the sacrifices made during a pivotal time in history.