23 January 2025
Eyemouth Marine Ltd is delighted to announce the launch of its inaugural training initiative, the “Viking Project: Reviving the Stroma Yole – Building Green Entrepreneurs through Heritage Restoration.”
This innovative initiative merges traditional craftsmanship with modern education in sustainability and green business practices, aiming to preserve Scotland’s rich maritime heritage while fostering the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.
Marking a milestone for Eyemouth Marine Ltd, The Viking Project is the first programme to take place at the company’s newly established, state-of-the-art training facility. The programme offers an immersive 20-week course that combines hands-on practical skills with personal development. Pupils from Eyemouth High School are taking part in this transformative experience, learning to appreciate both the craftsmanship behind maritime restoration and the principles of sustainable entrepreneurship.
Programme Highlights
The programme is designed to ensure that students can gain technical expertise and an understanding of the business and sustainability aspects of heritage restoration.
Throughout the project, students will attend mentor-led workshops on various topics, including entrepreneurship, teamwork, green technologies, marketing, leadership, adventure, and financial management. Practical boat restoration activities and valuable work experience opportunities supplement these sessions. A strong emphasis is placed on community engagement, with students organising events to showcase their work, highlight the historical significance of the Stroma Yole, and promote sustainable practices to a wider audience.
A Vision for the Future
The Viking Project reflects Eyemouth Marine Ltd’s commitment to local skills training and development. By combining education with cultural preservation, the initiative seeks to inspire the next generation, celebrate Scotland’s traditions, and create a vibrant, connected community focused on sustainability and growth.
“Through The Viking Project, Eyemouth Marine Ltd is setting a new standard for skill-building programmes, empowering young minds to honour the past while innovating for a greener future.” said Project Manager, Kevin McClure
About the Stroma Yole
The Yole is the traditional name for a small, double-ended vessel with origins tracing back to the Norse Viking raiding boats. Communities along Scotland’s North and East coasts have developed their own variations, including Shetland yoles, skiffs, and cobles. This particular boat, Bee, was launched in 1904 and worked from the island of Stroma in the Pentland Firth, for fishing and occasionally transporting cattle to the mainland. She is one of the very few surviving examples of her kind and now requires extensive restoration to secure her future.
About Eyemouth Marine Ltd
Eyemouth Marine Ltd is a historic commercial boatyard located in Eyemouth Harbour on Scotland's south-east coast, providing comprehensive services for commercial and leisure vessels. While its primary focus is on supporting the marine industry, Eyemouth Marine Ltd is deeply committed to skills development and the maritime community. Reflecting these values, the company’s new training facility hopes to offer maritime skills courses, equipping young people with practical expertise, entrepreneurial knowledge, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainability.