Who is the figurehead
at Old Salty?

Finbar Leif Mouat, “Old Salty”, hails from the North Sea archipelago of Shetland which is located off the northern tip of Scotland.

Throughout life Finbar has done whatever necessary to stay closely connected to the sea, whether it was working as Skipper or as a Deck Hand, on vessels large and small, voyaging in any body of water. About this experience Finbar once said, “Some sailors were engaged as Fishers, some did trading and some just sailed for the beauty of it.”

Finbar’s Shetland heritage and the long hours spent on the ocean gave plenty of inspiration to hone skills at crafting nautical treasures. An avid reader and a keen observer of nature and people, Finbar enjoys sharing legendary talents as a fiddler, a singer, a storyteller and an artist.

Since the late 60’s Salt Spring Island has been Finbar’s adopted home because it has much in common with Shetland as a small island rich with artists, artisans and natural beauty.

In addition, Salt Spring Island reflects an endless curiousity about the richness of culture, timeless craftsmanship and beauty of various art forms in other places – interests gained through visits to many ports and fishing harbours around the globe.

Today Finbar Mouat combines a love for nautical treasures and far-away places with a love for roaming the island and carving, drawing and writing.

The treasures Finbar gathers from near and far
are here at Old Salty store.