There are two ways to get to Sanday from Kirkwall

There are two ways to get to Sanday from Kirkwall.  Orkney ferries http://www.orkneyferries.co.uk/ and the fantastic interisland plane http://www.loganair.co.uk/ .   The ferry operates every day allowing a day trip to Kirkwall to collect all your essentials, food shop at Tesco, Co-op and other local stores who offer superb local produce.  Or even a day or pampering and a lovely lunch looking over the spectacular Saint Magnus or the hectic harbour.  On a beautiful sunny day you can sit outside and view the neighbouring islands and wildlife whilst you get taken back to the peace of Sanday.   I must admit my favourite form of travel is the Loganair 8 seater plane. It travels six days a week, and what a way to see the Orkney islands and crystal clear waters from above, it is amazing.  Especially when the sun rays stream through the clouds above. Just remember for your first trip take your camera!
http://www.orkneytourism.com/internaltransport.htm 
This site will give all contact details and timetables if you wish to come and visit Sanday and The Stables!
If your not a keen traveller there is no need to leave the island often. Everything you need is on the island. Post offices, hotels, shops with fresh produce brought frequently in a week across. The school with gym and swimming pool. A new purpose built youth centre , and plenty of clubs, bingo and endless activities to join.  As for shopping just order from the Internet, catalogues etc...Royal Mail will deliver at the same cost as mainlaind UK, and bulky items will be brought across by the islands haulage company.  Just remember to give a few extra days to receive your items. What could be better? The hustle and bustle of finding that perfect purchase with hundreds of other rushing shoppers, or sitting looking out onto your own land, with all the wildlife and a cuppa in your hand?  I know what I would choose...