To provide you with the best experience, cookies are used on this site. Learn more
You are here: Home > See and Do > Sailing > Lewis > Explore Lewis > Loch Shell
Midway between Stornoway and East Loch Tarbert (about 14 miles in each direction) and north of the Shiants, Loch Shell (Loch Sealg) is a convenient point of arrival in the Outer Hebrides for sailors crossing the North Minch.
Loch Shell on the east coast of Lewis has a clear, danger free entrance and provides good shelter for boats sailing in the Western Isles. There are wild anchorages within Loch Shell. Water is available at Lemreway Pier.
The east coast of Lewis is a popular spot for birding in the Western Isles, and white tailed sea eagles and golden eagles can be regularly viewed from the boat as they patrol the air high above the cliffs. Puffins, gannets and skuas can also be frequently seen here.
Marine wildlife in the area includes basking sharks, porpoises, dolphins, seals, and otters. For fishing fans pollock and mackerel are plentiful in summer months.
This area has a strong link with a story of the clearances, when a group of local women – the Loch Shell Heroines - took matters into their own hands.
© Outer Hebrides Tourism (Trading) 2025. Registered in Scotland SC501113. All Rights Reserved