The Excitement of Collaboration

Do you know one of the most exciting emails a small business owner can receive? It’s the kind that sparks new ideas, creates opportunities, and leads to something truly special.

That’s exactly what happened on a chilly Tuesday morning in March 2025 when I received an email from Marie Leask of Seabirds-and-Seals - The Original Noss Boat Tours. She reached out with an idea that immediately filled me with excitement—stocking my new Puffin design keyrings alongside my classic Orca and Otter keyrings aboard their wildlife tours.

What followed was a collaboration that blends craftsmanship with adventure, creating a unique and meaningful connection between handmade gifts and Shetland’s stunning wildlife.

The Exclusive Gannet & Seal Keyrings

Inspired by the breathtaking photos taken during their boat tours, we decided to craft an exclusive Gannet keyring, available only through Noss Boat Tours, The Sumburgh Lighthouse Visitor Centre and UphouseCrafts.com.

The gannet, a majestic seabird known for its dramatic dives and striking white plumage, is a fitting symbol of Shetland’s marine life.

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It was a natural progression to do a Seal keyring design too for Seabirds-and-Seals.  This was inspired by imagages of Seals swimming gracefully in the water, with the stunning blues and greens of the seal surounding them.  I might have taken a bit of artistic licence and made it cute and a little more teal than the water normally is.

This keyring is more than just a souvenir—it’s a way to carry a piece of Shetland’s natural beauty with you. Whether you’ve been lucky enough to witness these incredible birds in person or simply want a reminder of Shetland’s wild charm, this design is a keepsake that tells a story.

Why These Keyrings Are a Must-Have

If you’ve ever fumbled through a jumble of keys on a cold day, you know the frustration of grabbing the wrong one. Maybe you’ve mistaken your house key for your car key, or worse, been stuck outside with the wrong key in hand!

That’s where my handcrafted keyrings come in. Designed with both practicality and personality in mind, they offer:

• Lightweight & Comfortable – Easy to carry without weighing down your pocket.
• Vibrant Colours & Unique Designs – Puffins, orcas, otters, and now the exclusive gannet to choose from.
• Soft Cotton Loop – A comfortable alternative to metal, perfect for those who prefer a softer grip.

Many of my customers have told me they love these keyrings as gifts for teachers, friends, and family. They’re also a wonderful souvenir, capturing the magic of Shetland’s wildlife and the adventures of a Noss Boat Tour in a tangible, lasting way.

About Seabirds-and-Seals - The Original Noss Boat Tour

Seabirds-and-Seals offers five-star daily wildlife boat tours around Bressay and the Noss National Nature Reserve, one of Europe’s most spectacular reserves. Their tours run from April to October, giving passengers the chance to witness Shetland’s marine wildlife up close—whether it’s gannets diving, seals basking, or even the occasional orca sighting.

Marie, Brian, and their experienced crew are all Shetland-born and have an unmatched knowledge of the sea, nature, and local heritage. Their engaging and fun approach makes every tour an unforgettable experience, appealing to all ages and interests.

For over 33 years, Seabirds-and-Seals has built a reputation as one of Shetland’s top wildlife tours. Their commitment to excellence shines through in their glowing TripAdvisor & Google reviews, and their dedication to quality continues with their incredible team, including new relief skippers Marvyn & Jeemie.

Why not experience it for yourself? Their wheelchair-accessible vessel, Seabird, is waiting to take you on an adventure around Bressay & Noss. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone looking to enjoy Shetland’s beauty from the water, this is a trip not to be missed.

Check them out on Facebook & Instagram for stunning wildlife moments, and book your unforgettable Noss Boat Tour today!

A Partnership That Celebrates Shetland

At Uphouse Crafts and Seabirds-and-Seals, we share a common passion: bringing something special to our customers and community. Whether it’s through handmade gifts that tell a story or immersive boat tours that create lasting memories, we both contribute to something meaningful.

So, whether you're booking a boat tour or picking up a handcrafted keyring, know that you’re supporting a collaboration that celebrates Shetland’s rich wildlife, heritage, and creativity.

What are you waiting for, check out Seabirds-and-Seals webiste today to plan (or dream) your Shetland holiday.