Johnshaven Harbour

In the 18th century, Johnshaven was one of the largest fishing communities in Scotland. In 1722, the village supported 26 boats and at least 130 fishermen. The largest vessels, crewed by 10 men, were used for distant cod fishing during the summer months, while the smaller boats with eight crew operated for the rest of the year. There were 13 boats of each type.Today, Johnshaven remains the most southerly of Aberdeenshire’s seven harbours and retains many traditional fishing characteristics. It features two basins separated by a central jetty, covering 5,800 square metres with 330 metres of quayside. Facilities include quayside fresh water and a slipway. Around 20 boats have regular moorings here, with some still involved in commercial shell fishing.The village's main catch is now lobsters and crabs. Lobster fishing is carried out locally, and live lobsters can be seen—though not touched—in water tanks near the harbour before being shipped to continental Europe.The inner basin provides 3 to 6 metres of water at high tide, but the harbour dries out at low tide. Access should be confirmed with the Harbourmaster. The narrow entrance through the rocky foreshore can be challenging in winds from the north-east to south-east.In addition to its working harbour, Johnshaven offers pleasant coastal walks and a charming public park, making it a scenic stop along the Aberdeenshire coast.