Mingulay Boat Song

Composed and written by Sir Hugh Roberton of the Orpheus Choir of Glasgow, who also composed the famous Westering Home and Mairi's Wedding.

This is another one of those songs that became a folk standard, sung by a broad collection of folk musicians.

It appears as the fourth track on Between Wind and Water.

Lyrics
These lyrics are based on the version performed by the Longest Johns on their album,Between Wind and Water. The original lyrics can be found here. {Chorus} Heave 'er ho, boys; let her go, boys; Swing her head round, into the weather, Heave 'er ho, boys; let her go, boys; Sailing homeward to Mingulay What care we though, white the Minch is? What care we, boys, for windy weather? When we know that every inch is Sailing homeward to Mingulay {Chorus} Wives are waiting, by the pier head, Gazing seaward, from the heather; Bring her 'round, boys, then we'll anchor 'ere the sun sets on Mingulay. {Chorus} Ships return now, heavy laden Mothers holdin' bairns a-cryin' They'll return, yet, when the sun sets Sailing homeward to Mingulay. {Chorus til Finish}