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Logo : Disability Shetland

Inter Island Ferries

Fair Isle

 

MV Good Shepherd

The ferry is a converted fishing boat and is boarded via a narrow stepped gangway which joins the pier to the open upper deck.  From there, passengers must go down a vertical ladder to the main deck where the passenger saloon and toilet are situated.  The saloon is then reached via a door with two steps of 200mm and 300mm.  Thresholds at interior doors are between 100mm and 200mm.  The toilet is larger than expected but the waterproof covers and seat belts fitted to all the seats in the passenger lounge is an indication of what to expect on rough days.  Although safe and extremely sea worthy, this ferry is not accessible for passengers with any significant mobility problem.  A light aircraft offers an alternative form of transport to Fair Isle and is the chosen means of transport for many, especially during the winter months.

 

Grutness Terminal (Sumburgh)

The terminal which is situated close to Sumburgh Airport has a bus stop beside the waiting room and toilet block.  There are two steps of 200mm and 150mm.  The male toilet has level but rough access and there is a single 150mm step to the female toilet.  Cubilces in both male and female toilets are narrow and not suitable for disabled use.  There is a level 58 metre walk from the waiting room to the ferry.  Grab rails are fitted to all entrances which have steps.

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Photo 1 - Waiting Room

The waiting room offers basic accommodation and is accessed via two steps.

Waiting Room

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Photo 2 - Toilets

The toilets are of an old design and feature narrow cubicles.

Toilets

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Photo 3 - MV Good Shepherd

The ferry used on this route is a converted fishing boat.  It offers an interesting introduction to island life but is not suitable any passenger with mobility problems.

Good Shepherd

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Photo 4 - MV Good Shepherd

Access to the ferry is via a gangway followed by a vertical ladder.

Ladder

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Photo 5 - MV Good Shepherd

Waterproof seats are provided with seatbelts for those travelling on rough days.

Seats
| Logo : Shetland Islands Council | | Logo : The Scottish Government | | Logo : Leader Plus | Logo : Project part financed by the european union| | Logo : Shetland Enterprise | Logo : Voluntary Action Shetland|