The Isle of Barra has fishing running through its veins and at one point in the islands long history, the fishing was the Islands heartbeat.

Every year the islands fishermen head for Castlebay to take part in the yearly tradition of blessing the boats. So, that for the year ahead they will have both good fortune and safety so that the crews and skippers can return home to their loved ones.

The boats, crews, families and islanders gather in Castlebay where a mass takes place which is then followed by a blessing. A fantastic family day is rounded off by each boat taking members of the public a spin around the bay in which rival boats take part in some light hearted ‘banter’.

On the pier side, you will find fresh herring being cooked to also celebrate the islands rich and deep connection with the ‘silver darlings’

You will find this is a day not to be missed and takes place annually on the island on the first Sunday in July. This year’s show was another great day for everyone involved and we must thank all the kind volunteers for all their hard work to make sure this fantastic event takes place.

Thank you to Rosie Schneider for the brilliant photos. 

Here’s to next year!