
Bendoran Boatyard, nestled within one of the most sheltered anchorages on Scotland’s West Coast in Bunessan on the Isle of Mull, holds a rich history as a once-thriving maritime hub. This picturesque shoreside site was acquired by South West Mull & Iona Development (SWMID) in October 2019, with crucial support from the Scottish Land Fund. This acquisition marked a significant step in securing the boatyard for the local community, preserving its heritage while envisioning a revitalized future.
Under community ownership, Bendoran Boatyard is now being developed with a long-term vision to transform it into a multi-use resource. This ambitious project aims to create new opportunities for local employment and training, provide essential facilities for island residents, and serve as an exciting enhancement to the area’s tourism offerings. Among its current provisions, the boatyard offers valuable onshore boat storage spaces for both local people and visitors, alongside a newly available slipway for convenient boat launching.
While the boatyard is a community asset, charges apply for services such as boat storage and slipway use, helping to cover ongoing operational costs like insurance and maintenance. In addition to these community-driven services, the site is also home to Bendoran Watersports, a separate venture offering guided sea kayak and sailing trips to explore Mull’s stunning coastline. This combination of community resources and commercial enterprise ensures the boatyard remains a vibrant and functional part of Bunessan, supporting both local needs and visitor experiences.