A former ship's master has taken the plunge and started his own diving business with help from Skye and Lochalsh Enterprise (SALE).

John Gilmartin from Auchtertyre near Kyle of Lochalsh worked as Master in Charge of an MOD diving vessel at the nearby Ministry of Defence Base before being made redundant last year.  With 22 years experience of life at sea behind him he decided to attend SALE's Introduction to Self Employment course to find out how to set up his own charter company.

Three months later, Mr Gilmartin bought a specially adapted Danish fishing boat with help from a £16,000 grant from SALE and £13,500 from the HIE Activities programme - an EU funded scheme from the Highlands and Islands Special Transitional Programme.  The 65-ft MV Sarah can sleep up to 12 people and Mr Gilmartin is currently making the final touches to get her ship-shape and ready for his first charter.

The business is geared towards the tourism market and offers groups of divers and marine enthusiasts the chance to explore as far afield as Northern Ireland and St Kilda. 

"Because I offer on-board accommodation, divers can visit a range of ports without returning to shore and so will have a greater choice of dive sites," said Mr Gilmartin.  "I have an RYA Master's Offshore Ticket and all the relevant safety certificates, and with plenty experience of skippering diving vessels behind me, I have gained knowledge of many of the best dive sites and have experienced a range of sea and weather conditions. Without funding from SALE and HIE I would not be able to fulfil this venture.  They have been extremely helpful, offering assistance throughout the business set-up process."

Carole Inglis, development manager from SALE said:  "The west coast of Scotland is blessed with beautiful clear waters and the diving market has become an important part of our local area's tourism industry as a result.  A wide range of tourist activities will ensure the area continues to attract visitors and I wish John every success with his new business."

* For more information visit www.divecharterscotland.co.uk