Tag: sailing holiday scotland

Sail to Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa

December 21, 2021

Scotland-Staffa-Island-View-Fingals-cave

Venture with us to the ancient uninhabited island of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides to discover the mesmerising Fingal’s Cave, located on the southern edge of the island. This incredible and fascinating sea cave towers 227ft over the ocean and is comprised of geometric volcanic basalt pillars, giving the impression that it’s been crafted by human hands instead of carved by mother nature and the elements.

These hexagonal columns, shaped in neat six-sided pillars that make up the interior walls and entering into this strange cavern is truly otherwordly. Aside from these incredible shapes, the acoustics are equally astonishing with the naturally formed arched roof providing the perfect amphitheatre as the ocean crashes in to create haunting symphonies. In fact, the cave was referred to as ‘Uamh-Binn’ – the Cave of Melodies in Celtic due to the harmonious sounds heard here which can be likened to those that resonate throughout a cathedral. It is something that must be experienced first-hand in order to truly understand how unique this is.

The Legend of Fingal’s Cave
When sailing in the Hebrides it soon becomes obvious that these are lands of myths and legends and Fingal’s Cave is no exception. It is believed to have been formed some 60 million years ago by the very same ancient lava flow that created the Giant’s Causeway, across the sea in Ireland. Both are made of the same basalt columns and legend holds that they were the opposite ends of an ancient bridge built by the benevolent Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill who discovers that the Scottish giant Benandonner is coming to fight with him. Following a clever deception by Fionn’s wife, which frightens Benandonner to his very core, Benandonner returns to Scotland smashing the bridge behind him so Fionn cannot follow him.

WIldlife on the isle of Staffa
However, it is not solely Fingal’s Cave that lures visitors here. The beautiful Isle of Staffa is home to one of the Hebrides largest puffin colonies, who congregate on the cliffs and spend their days diving into the water from where they return with a beak full of fish. Lucky visitors are able to while away the time observing these comical, curious and colourful little birds without disturbing their natural environment. For those wishing to see puffins, we recommend visiting during the breeding season, between the start of May and the start of August when the birds have their distinctive colourful beaks. Aside from puffins, there are numerous other seabirds that either nest or feed from the island including gannets, guillemots, razorbills, great northern divers, fulmars and great skuas.

Discover Fingal’s Cave for yourself on one of our Hebrides sailing holidays >

Jump Aboard A Sailing Holiday In Scotland On The Bessie Ellen

February 1, 2020

Gin and tonic on board Bessie Ellen in Scotland

With a staggering 10,250 miles of coastline, Scotland and its islands provide an unparalleled playground for every sailor – from complete novices to the most seasoned skippers. The wild west coast, in particular, boasts fjord-like sea lochs punctuated by mountainous promontories, providing both much-needed shelter and, at times, their very own weather systems.

A land of opportunity and unique experiences, with hosts as friendly as they are passionate about their sensational homeland, Scotland offers something for everyone – from music festivals, history and diverse wildlife to unrationed adrenaline, breath-taking vistas and the world’s finest whisky.

Arriving in Style

Stunning scenery is sure to dazzle visitors arriving by air, road, rail or sea – but catching one’s very first glimpses of Scotland’s enchanting landscapes from the water guarantees the most beautiful bypass to traffic, trains and tourist traps. Add to this an enormous sense of accomplishment for mastering some of the most challenging British waters and spine-tingling anticipation for the rich bounty awaiting you, and your arrival will be all the sweeter.

As the days grow longer, ‘A Sailor’s Voyage to Scotland’ on the Bessie Ellen offers a fantastic opportunity to arrive in Scotland under sail, taking in the country’s unrivalled beauty from a traditional ship. Departing from Fowey in Cornwall, sailors can soak up the gradual changes in landscape from the West Country all the way up to Scotland’s wonderful west coast while clocking up 11 days’ worth of nautical miles and an abundance of open water sailing experience, both by day and by night.

Beats a Bothy

Walkers in Scotland traditionally break for the night in a humble bothy – a simple shelter from the elements, often without any facilities whatsoever – but the crew of the Bessie Ellen can retreat to their cosy berths to recuperate after a day well spent. Those on night watch need not feel hard done by; navigating the wide-open sea by starlight provides the ultimate consolation prize. Better still, Bessie Ellen is fully catered at breakfast, lunch and dinner – and for snacks and drinks too.

Passage Plan

Peel Harbour on the Isle of Man provides the first port of call (and an abundance of world famous smoked kippers) before Bessie Ellen sets sail once again through the North Channel, past the Isle of Islay and the narrow strait of Coryvrekkan and calling in on the islands of Colonsay or Jura (subject to the prevailing weather conditions, of course). Sailors can steady their sea legs once and for all at their destination, Oban, before soaking up all that mainland Scotland has to offer.

Oban itself makes for an unforgettable introduction to Scotland. Taking its name from the Gaelic for ‘little bay’, Oban is nestled within miles of dramatic coastline and scenic countryside, providing a gateway not only to the Hebrides but to castles, gardens, galleries, independent shops, a distillery and even a chocolate factory. Its coves and rich sea life provide the ultimate reward at the end of a lengthy voyage, with the most magical west-facing sunsets as the lengthening days draw to a close.

The First Visit of Many

Little wonder, then, that Scotland lies at every skipper’s heart. The weather might keep the masses at bay – but ensures that no sailor ever becomes a stranger to this instantly and reassuringly familiar nation.

Take a look inside this classic tall ship, and be inspired to take your first sailing holiday in Scotland.

Why A Sailing Holiday In The Hebrides Should Be On Your Bucket List For The Next Decade

January 17, 2020

At the dawn of a new decade, we cannot help but look forward to lighter evenings, fairer weather, longer passages and a whole year of opportunities to clock up our sailing miles.

Being so far north, the Hebrides enjoy the longest days in the summer months and freedom from light pollution on the darkest nights, providing an astronomical feast for the eyes with the most spectacular star-gazing and regular appearances from the Northern Lights. Our sailing schedule offers a wealth of opportunity to explore Scotland’s Western Isles, even venturing to the mysterious St Kilda, a world heritage site, nature reserve and outpost for the very edge of the world.

The sensational Scottish islands (all 750 of them!) are considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Scotland’s immense coastline, with remote islets, secluded sea lochs and sheltered coves often entirely inaccessible by land. It certainly takes time and effort to reach these sparkling seascapes, but intrepid adventurers are rewarded for their efforts with an expanse of vivid azure and the whitest sand that really must be seen to be believed.

Wildlife Watching

Binoculars are essential here; the warm waters of the Gulf Stream and the cold waters of Scotland’s staggering mountains create an incredible marine microclimate brimming with plankton, laying rich foundations for a spectacular food chain. Resident orca, curious dolphin pods, friendly puffins, plunging gannets, basking sharks, humpback whales and even golden eagles make for the sea safari of a lifetime. Local seals are so familiar that islanders give them names; sailors have been known to dive in and join them!

Closer to land, wildlife spotters might catch sight of red deer, wild goats and ponies, rare flora, fauna and butterflies; we could go on for some time. A feast for the eyes awaits, and for the table too, as hungry sailors can refuel with fresh langoustines, scallops and crab. The catch, as some see it, is Scotland’s infamous midge population – but happily, they are very unlikely to join you aboard your vessel.

Western Weather

Often racing through four seasons in a day, the Western Isles may not be famed for consistently fair weather but reliably provide outstanding sailing conditions – and the magical light upon tranquil Hebridean waters when storms pass is a sight to behold. Atlantic gales can roll in year-round, but the lee of Scotland’s beautiful island chains and volcanic peaks provide protected waters and sheltered anchorages from almost all wind directions. Our crews know the secret spots and safe havens for reducing sail and regrouping – and come rain or shine, you will be immersed in the most spellbinding landscape with plenty to see.

On Dry Land

Stepping ashore, each enchanting island is steeped in individual history, culture, identity and charm. There are endless trekking opportunities for restless sea legs, climbing to the highest peaks or beachcombing on deserted powdery stretches of coastline. Inhabited islands offer colourful fishing ports, vibrant galleries, cafes, museums and shops, with culinary delights ranging from the world’s greatest black puddings to the very finest of fine dining. Uninhabited islands offer unparalleled nature reserves – and peace like nowhere else in the world.

After a busy day exploring the islands and their literary links (George Orwell completed 1984 on Jura), centuries-old distilleries (Islay alone is home to eight, creating some of the finest whiskies in the world) and dramatic rock formations (the mystical Fingal’s Cave inspired Mendelssohn’s overture), you can retreat to your cabin and compare notes with your shipmates; no two experiences of the Hebrides are ever the same.

Lifelong Memories

The Queen is widely known to have adored her annual family holidays in the Western Isles aboard Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia – so much so that she wept at the ship’s decommissioning. We understand entirely. These islands are a world away from hurried modern living; their beauty is universally moving and will forever hold a special place in the hearts of visitors.

Stop dreaming and start planning!

Take a look at our sailing schedule and start planning your sailing holiday in Scotland and the Hebrides today, and get one step closer to ticking it off your bucket list.