Yachting around Barra is a highly enjoyable pastime as the scenery is stunning and the waters are much less crowded than further South. This isolation does, however, have its disadvantages as if there is an emergency help can take longer to arrive. It should be especially noted that very strong currents can run between islands and a good yachtsman's pilot book such as those produced by Martin Lawrence or the Clyde Cruising Club should always be studied carefully before venturing into these Hebridean waters. Current Admiralty or Imray charts must be carried (there is no retail outlet for these items in the Southern Isles)

The Weather conditions can change dramatically within 2-3 hours even in summer and all vessels are strongly advised to listen to the weather forecasts which are broadcast by Stornoway MRSC on Channel 10 and 73 (As always, keep listening on Channel 16. This channel will broadcast the correct channel for the forecast immediately preceding the forecast). The forecast is broadcast every 4 hours i.e. 6 times a day starting at approx. 0110hrs. New Storm warnings may be broadcast between these hours if conditions require it.

In some areas around Barra radio communication with Stornoway is not good and it is easier to contact Oban MRSC who broadcast a similar weather service at different hours (Oban MRSC is due to close in the future and Stornoway will take over some of its functions)

Inshore waters forecasts can also be obtained via teletext and via the internet.(www.bbc.co.uk), the Meteorological Office can also supply faxback forecasts for a premium rate telephone call. At present mobile phones do not work in the waters around Barra but coverage by Vodaphone is expected by the summer of 2000

Barra is a very isolated location and there are no marina facilities as such. However there are delightful anchorages in Vatersay Bay and at NorthBay (Ardveenish) where yachtsman are advised to keep clear of fishing boats landing their catch at the pier.

The local harbourmaster Archie Macdonald can be contacted at the Cal Mac office on the pier. Ronnie Macneil (01871810416) should be contacted about all other matters relating to Council piers and slipways. There is no Fisherman's mission or agent on Barra but fishermen, as a last resort, could try Barratlantic (01871890341/291 or fax 01871890291) who may be able to give more information.

Fuel and water is available at the pier in Castlebay. Water and red diesel is also available at Northbay.Calorgas can be supplied by Murdo Mackinnon at Earsary (01871810419). In case of mechanical difficulties skippers can contact Don Macneil in Ardveenish (01871890265) or Michael Mackinnon (Mackinnon Engineering) in Castlebay on 01871810556. Barra diver (Martin Macphee) can be contacted on 01871810238.

Provisions can be obtained in The Street or in the small Co-op. Fresh fruit, milk and vegetables are generally only available the morning after the ferry has come in from the mainland (often Tuesday mornings, Thursday mornings and Saturday mornings in the summer).

The Royal Bank of Scotland provides banking facilities but there is no cash machine. However, UK nationals can obtain " cash back " from the Co-op. There is also a post office and tourist office.

There is a doctor's Surgery (01871810282) in the main street and a community dentist's surgery in St Brendan's Hospital. In case of medical problems the surgery should be contacted in the first instance (apart from dire emergencies when you should ring 999).

There is a public library at Castlebay Community School (01871810471) where Internet access is available (for a small fee). In the School there is a swimming pool (01871810321) which is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings also Saturdays during the day. Showers and saunas may be enjoyed at the pool.

Snacks are available at Barra Heritage Centre and bar meals are available at all the hotels.

Other local facilities include the Voluntary Action Bureau, invaluable for all matters relating to Barra (01871810401), and also the council office of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (01871 810431).