Take to the Water Safely: Maritime Safety Day 2026 Announced

A dedicated Maritime Safety Day, held in association with Water Safety Day 2026, will take place on Saturday 16th May from 10:00am to 3:00pm at the UHI Shetland Scalloway Campus, offering a range of practical, hands-on sessions aimed at anyone involved in or planning activities on the sea.

UHI Shetland will host a Maritime Safety Day on Saturday 16 May 2026 from 10:00am to 3:00pm at its Scalloway Campus, bringing together a wide range of practical safety demonstrations and hands on learning opportunities for those involved in or planning activities at sea.

Held in association with Water Safety Day 2026, the event is designed to raise awareness of maritime safety and give participants the confidence and knowledge to respond effectively in emergency situations.

Visitors will be able to take part in a series of drop in sessions throughout the day, including first aid at sea with CPR refresher training, VHF emergency procedures covering correct Mayday call protocols, and liferaft and lifejacket demonstrations showing the use of essential safety equipment and survival techniques.

A highlight of the day will be the opportunity to experience a maritime bridge simulator, offering a realistic insight into vessel navigation and operations.

In addition, small group Intro to Powerboat Handling sessions will be available, giving participants the chance to undertake safety checks, learn basic boat handling techniques, use navigation equipment such as chart plotters and radar, and complete a man overboard rescue exercise. These sessions are limited to three participants per slot and must be booked in advance.

Tickets for the powerboat sessions are priced at £2 per person, with all proceeds donated to the RNLI. The event will also feature an RNLI fundraising raffle to support the charity’s ongoing lifesaving work.

The Maritime Safety Day has been made possible thanks to funding support from Trinity House, whose contribution has enabled the delivery of this important community safety initiative.

The event is open to all and is particularly suited to boat users, water sports participants and anyone with an interest in staying safe at sea. Staff will also be available on the day to provide information about maritime training and courses offered by UHI Shetland.

Places for the powerboat handling sessions can be booked online