June this year saw another very successful carers' cruise and we would like to thank all the crew, agencies, helpers and musicians who kindly gave up their Sunday to help make it such an enjoyable trip for everyone. After picking up from Yell the ferry drew into Toft and the crew very kindly welcomed everyone on board.

This year we met many new carers and their families as well as welcoming back some old friends. Once again everyone was able to listen to short informal introductions and meet staff from local agencies.

Coffee, lunch and afternoon tea were enjoyed by all and prepared for us through an outside catering arrangement with WRVS who this year excelled with their afternoon tea cakes! Everyone enjoyed the wonderful spread that was once again provided through WRVS.

Shetland Carers Cruise 2011 carer family

We even had a table with five generations all able to enjoy some precious family time together.

This year we welcomed back old favourites and some new musicians who joined the cruise for the first time. We hope we have convinced them to join us on a regular basis!

Shetland Carers Cruise 2011 Hazel Anderson and fiddler

Everyone enjoyed the variety of musical styles and there really was something for everyone.

The theme for Carers Week this year was 'The True Face of Carers' and the aim of the cruise was to celebrate the contribution that unpaid carers make to those they care for.

Carers were able to meet others in similar positions to themselves and share their story. Many carers expressed how relaxed they felt after the cruise and how good it felt to get a break away for the day!

There were the usuall points of interest and spectacular views pointed out for all to enjoy by both the crew and our wonderful compère for the day, Lawrence Tulloch.

The final treat for any interested passengers was trips up to the bridge. We even had a young guest captain join the crew for a visit!