Transporting Boat from Vidlin to Sellaness

Client Overview

Client: Grant Robertson
Industry: Private
Location: Vidlin
Project Date: 08/09/2025


The Challenge:

The client required his boat to be transported from a private site in Vidlin to Sellaness for launching. Due to the size and height of the vessel once loaded onto the trailer, several hauliers declined the job. The total height of the boat and trailer combination was 5.8 metres, presenting a significant constraint along the planned route.

A key challenge involved overhead power lines. Route checks identified that, at Voe, the available line clearance was only 5.9 metres, leaving a margin of just 100mm, making standard transit unsafe without specialist coordination.


Why LTS Shetland?

The client approached LTS Shetland due to our specialism in abnormal and wide-load movements. We are known for taking on complex transport jobs that require detailed planning, risk management, and coordination with third parties. LTS Shetland provided a full end-to-end solution, including risk assessments, movement orders, escort vehicles, haulage, and liaison with SSE.


Services Provided:

  • Haulage – Transportation of the boat from Vidlin to Sellaness

  • Escort Vehicles – Full escort coverage from Voe to Sellaness


Techniques & Expertise:

  • Coordination with SSE to manage overhead power lines

  • Detailed route planning and hazard assessment 

  • Site visit to measure the boat and assess transport options

  • Route planning, including checking line heights and clearance

  • Organisation of escort vehicles and wide-load movement orders

  • Provision of crane, haulage equipment, plant, and personnel to complete the move safely


Results:

The boat was successfully transported and delivered to Sellaness without incident and prepared for launching. The movement was completed safely, compliantly, and efficiently, despite the tight overhead clearance constraints.


Conclusion

This project demonstrates LTS Shetland’s ability to deliver specialist transport solutions where others cannot. Through careful planning, expert coordination, and industry partnerships, we ensure complex abnormal load movements are carried out safely and professionally across Shetland.