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Muirneag na Mara is a registered Scottish charity (SCIO) established to rebuild and care for the historic 80ft (24m) sailing vessel, the SV Muirneag - a traditional herring lugger whose name means Darling Girl in Gaelic.
Once restored, she will be the only seaworthy Class One Zulu remaining in the world. Based in Ullapool and Stornoway, Muirneag will operate across northwest Scotland and the Hebrides, with longer voyages planned around the British Isles and potentially further afield to Europe and the Baltics.
This will be the largest wooden boat build undertaken in Scotland in decades. It restores a vital link to our fishing and sailing traditions while actively strengthening the nation’s traditional skill base including wooden boatbuilding, sailmaking, ropework, and spar crafting — many of which are now listed on the UNESCO-recognised Red List of Endangered Crafts (2023).
By supporting this project, you are helping to ensure these time-honoured skills are not lost but passed on, celebrated, and kept alive for future generations.
Offering hands-on opportunities for young people to develop practical maritime, engineering, and heritage skills, while building confidence and life experience.
Delivering unforgettable voyages where participants learn teamwork, navigation, and seamanship aboard a historic vessel, with opportunities to represent Scotland in international Tall Ship events.
Preserving and passing on the craft of traditional Scottish boatbuilding through community workshops, training programs, and collaborative construction efforts.
Equipping Muirneag with a working laboratory to support community-led marine research, environmental monitoring and partnerships with schools and scientists.
Bringing people closer to Scotland’s maritime story through educational programs, cultural events and shared experiences aboard a living piece of nautical history.
We’re seeking support to fund the £1.8 million needed for the three-year build phase of the SV Muirneag in Ullapool.
This historic project will restore the last surviving Class One Zulu fishing vessel to full seaworthiness and stand as a powerful symbol of Scotland’s maritime heritage.
Once launched, SV Muirneag will be financially self-sustaining through a range of revenue-generating activities, including sail training, private charters, hospitality, film/media projects and on-board accommodation.
Your support today helps make this vision a reality.
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