Shetland Boats

Shetland Boats was founded in 1968, beginning at Threestokes Marina in London with a simple phone call. As the company grew, it required more space and dedicated facilities, leading to the establishment of full production at two sites in Burnham-on-Crouch and Southminster. This marked the start of Shetland Boats’ manufacturing journey.

Outgrowing these locations, Shetland purchased a new site in Stanton, Suffolk. Once settled there, the company expanded rapidly, manufacturing and delivering up to 12 boats a day, totaling as many as 60 in a single week.

Following the end of production in Stanton and a change of ownership, Shetland relocated to Redgrave in Norfolk. The company continued to produce familiar models while introducing new ones such as the Shetland Sovereign and the Saker. During this period, they also began producing boats under a license agreement with a leading Australian manufacturer, known as Signature.

In 1992, Shetland moved to Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, focusing on the production of smaller models within the range. On October 4th, 1997, the company made a key transition back to Stanton, signalling a fresh start. This move coincided with the appointment of James Reinman as Managing Director at just 25 years old.

James had gained valuable experience in boat building from a young age, working as an apprentice on the factory floor. His hands-on knowledge became a cornerstone of his leadership.

After five years in Stanton, Shetland relocated to a new 5-acre site in the village of Pakenham. This expanded space allowed Shetland to build its largest model to date—the luxurious Shetland 245—marking a notable shift from the company’s earlier focus on volume small boats.

From its inception, Shetland’s primary goal has been to produce safe, reliable family cruisers at straightforward prices. This mission continues today, with Shetland standing firmly by its principles. The company’s family cruisers have consistently appealed to thousands who enjoy life afloat, offering a rewarding alternative to the pressures of daily life.

Over the past 40 years, few boat manufacturers have maintained the trust and confidence of the buying public as Shetland Boats has. With a Shetland in the family, the coasts and waterways of the UK and Europe are just a trailer trip away, welcoming you to explore in a boat built with passion and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Shetland boats still made?
Yes. Shetland Boats has built GRP cruisers since 1968 and is now based at Pakenham near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, under an hour from Jones Boatyard. Current models include the Shetland 245 and 4 Plus 2, with older models such as the Family Four remaining popular on the used market.

Which Shetland is best for a family?
The Shetland 27 for weekends away, with four berths, a separate toilet and a galley in an 8.10m hull. The 4 Plus 2 (6.40m) is the entry point with a small cabin and open cockpit, and the 245 sits between the two at 7.50m and is the current flagship model. All three are shallow draught outboard or inboard boats suited to the Great Ouse.

How much is a used Shetland?
At Jones Boatyard, a Shetland 4 Plus 2 is typically £15,000 to £22,000 and a Shetland 27 from £26,000 to £50,000 depending on age, engine hours and how it presents. Prices for individual boats are shown on the listings.

What engine does a Shetland 27 have?
Most Shetland 27s are outboard powered, commonly with a Honda or Mariner four stroke between 50 and 100hp, which gives easy access for servicing and lets the leg tilt clear in shallow water. Others are fitted with inboard Yanmar or Vetus diesel engines. Jones Boatyard services Honda outboards on site as an authorised dealer.