Tall ship Sailing Outer Hebrides and St Kilda

YOUR SAILING AREA

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

The Outer Hebrides in Scotland offers some of the most breath-taking and fascinating sailing grounds in the UK. One of our most popular sailing holiday destinations, the coasts and islands that make up the West Coast of Scotland offer so much variation for ours boats and guests, you will quickly see why our guests return year on year. Think remote anchorages where mountains run straight into the sea, miles of atmospheric landscapes, secret coves and uninhabited islands for walking trails ashore.

The main focus of this adventure sailing holiday is to reach the Outer Hebridean islands, the Shiants and as long as the weather is favourable, reach the far flung archipelago of St Kilda. The wind and weather will determine your route and destination so it is never 100% guarantee that St Kilda will be reached. The skipper and crew will have a better idea of what to expect from the weather as you board. Join in the Scottish port of Mallaig and finish in the port of Oban, just down the coast from Mallaig.

.

Outer Hebrides & St Kilda

Some of our best anchorages in the Outer Hebrides include Eriskay, Barra Head, Mingulay, Vatersay, Taransay, Scarp and the Monach Islands. 

The Shiants (or “enchanted isles” in Scottish Gaelic) is a group of uninhabited islands that are known for their remoteness, dramatic coastline and rare seabirds. Home to one of RSPB Scotlands Sea bird Recovery projects, life on these remote islands is truly wild and equally important for our national bird populations. Anchor up and explore these wonders by foot whilst soaking up the rugged coastlines and keeping your eyes peeled at all times for exotic flora, fauna, wildlife and interesting archaeological remains.

Spend your days getting involved with setting the sails of this magnificent tall ship before anchoring up to explore remote locations ashore as you island hop your way through the Outer Hebrides.

UNESCO – St Kilda

Lying out in the Atlantic, 45 miles west of the Outer Hebrides, St Kilda is an isolated and volcanic archipelago once home to Britain’s most isolated community. The last inhabitants were evacuated in 1930 with it now providing a home to over a million nesting seabirds. As long as the weather is favourable, Blue Clipper will look to make this 45 mile crossing. Certainly not for the faint-hearted, this tall ship sailing adventure to St Kilda is a hands-on experience as you get to grips with sailing a tall ship under the guidance of a professional crew.

St Kilda is a UNESCO world heritage site and is the UK’s only site to have been given status for both its unique cultural and natural heritage. Humans have been recorded living in St Kilda for over 2000 years but archeological research has dated human traces on site as far back as the Neolithic period. With the history of its people, its inaccessibility and amazing wildlife, the islands are an exceptionally desirable destination for anyone interested in natural history and looking for that bucket list adventure travel experience. You will be able to soak up these rugged islands whilst keeping eyes peeled at all times for exotic flora and fauna.

Read more about our Guide to St Kilda here

All voyages for Blue Clipper

Blue Clipper

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Schooner

Built-in Sweden in 1991, tall ship Blue Clipper is an impressive three-masted gaff rig schooner. With a clipper bow, original teak deck and elegant stern, she mixes a traditional tall ship feel with a relatively modern build giving guests an authentic experience with all the mod cons.

She has spent many years sailing all over the world from the Caribbean to the Arctic and currently spends her summers sailing  Scotland and the Hebrides and her autumn months heading south to Spain and Portugal. Originally owned by the Brandy company Hennessy and named ‘Spirit of Hennessey, she appeared in many TV programmes and commercials before being privately bought in the late 90’s.

On deck, she boasts ample space for her guests to become fully immersed in hands-on sailing; heaving the ropes, hoisting the sails, learning ropes skills and even taking the helm. She has 3 kayaks and 3 paddle-boards for guest use while on anchor so you can explore even further inshore.

A spacious saloon, wheelhouse and galley also sit at deck level while below decks has been well-considered with six spacious ensuite cabins. All cabins have full size bunks, a small desk, a porthole for natural light and heating/air conditioning.

Read more about Life on Board Blue Clipper here.

Deck plan

Life on board Blue Clipper

Sailing with tall ship Blue Clipper is certainly an enjoyable, hands-on experience and guests are encouraged to get involved with all aspects of sailing this magnificent tall ship. Spending her summers exploring Scotland and the Hebrides and her winters sailing in the Caribbean, Blue Clipper is a luxury tall ship experience. Perfect for couples or solo travellers looking for that added touch of luxury with private en-suite cabins and top-notch food.

Getting involved

From hoisting the sails to taking the helm, the friendly and knowledgable crew are always on hand to show you the ropes. Part of the beauty of sailing with such a magnificent vessel is the opportunity to get involved in a safe and supported environment! The permanent crew are all professionally trained so as much as guest involvement is encouraged, if you just want to sit back and take in the view or are concerned about your physical ability to hoist ropes – there are plenty of other boat jobs such as coiling ropes, preparing lines and keeping watch!

Eating on board

Blue Clipper has a dedicated chef on board too so you don’t have to worry about cooking after a days sailing in the salty sea air. Think locally sourced produce, fresh fish and home-made bread with hearty home-cooked meals and plenty of tea, coffee and cake!

Sleeping and relaxation

Below decks, Blue Clipper has a large comfy saloon perfect for sharing sea-faring tales, hearty home-cooked meals or even a game of cards! Rest up after a day of adventure in your spacious private en-suite cabin. With twin bunks, sailing with Blue Clipper is certainly one of comfort and is the perfect choice for couples or solo travellers.

Blue Clipper has two kayaks and paddleboards on board which guests are welcome to use to explore the nooks and crannies of the coast! There is no extra charge for this and buoyancy vests are also provided.

Read more about what to expect from a typical day and life onboard Blue Clipper.

Kit list

Blue Clipper has plenty of space within the cabin (including hanging space) to put your things away but no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack.

We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy drying layers. Below is list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those that have sailed before may have their own preferences!

• Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
• Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
•  Waterproof boots or wellington boots (dependent on weather forecast)
• Swimsuit and swim towel (optional) 
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)

It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!

• Warm, windproof and waterproof coat and trousers
• Sun cream (please consider reef safe, eco products where possible)
• Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
• Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
• Camera/binoculars 
• Personal wash kit (please consider reef safe, eco products where possible)
• ‘Smidge’ midge repellent
• EU 2pin plug adaptor
• Charging cables for personal devices
• A good book to read!
• Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

Travel Documents

•  Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.

SAMPLE MENU FOR BLUE CLIPPER

All food is made on board and local, fresh produce is top of the shopping list. Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.

BREAKFAST

• Poached/scrambled eggs, bacon, vine tomatoes, mushrooms
• French toast, bacon, maple syrup
• Porridge, fruit selection
• Toast, preserves and cereal selection
• Tea, fresh coffee and fresh fruit juice

AFTERNOON CAKE

• Tea, coffee, home-made cakes, scones, jam and cream, shortbreads

LUNCH

• Spinach and ricotta tortellini, blue cheese sauce and cherry tomatoes
• Open sandwiches, salad, crisps
• Cous cous salad, goats cheese, roasted red pepper
• Wild mushroom risotto with rocket and herb oil
• Fish goujons, new potatoes, tartar and salad garnish

DINNER

• Starters; Tomato bruschetta, Ardennes pate, salt baked beetroot, curry aioli, gremolata sesame praline, hot smoked salmon crostini
  
• Fillet of coley, crushed new potatoes, asparagus, beurre blanc, dill mayo
• Pork belly, maple glazed celeriac, turmeric curr, rice and salsa, basil pesto
• Roast chicken thigh, saute new potatoes, squash puree, braised carrots, kale, red wine jus
• Spiced bean stew, rocket, herb oil
• Chicken breast, celeriac puree, mash, parma ham crisp, miso mayo

Dessert

• Cranachan
• Coffee and cake
• Cheeseboard

What’s Included 

• Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Use of boats kayaks and stand-up paddle-boards

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Waterproof coat or trousers
• All flights
• Transit hotels
• Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
• Travel insurance
• Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
• Crew tips
• Personal expenses

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.

This voyage will be more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and hot drinks)

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, please let us know when making your booking.

• Are there any added extras?

  There's an honesty bar for soft drinks and alcohol.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  6x Twin Ensuite Cabins.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  Yes, each cabin has a porthole.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  9 in total. All Cabins are Ensuite aside from the six-berth that shares a bathroom.

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No, but you can bring a travel hair dryer if you wish.

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No. there is no guest laundry facilities aboard.

• Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

  Yes, there is heating throughout the boat.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• Is there WIFI?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern tech and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes - please bring EU adaptors.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Blue Clipper is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up and over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  No.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure and a want to get actively involved.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  She has 3 kayaks and 3 stand-up paddle boards for guests to use free of charge.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.

• Is there an age limit?

  Over 12's for normal voyages. No age limit for private charters.

Travel Planning

From: Mallaig

To: Oban

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.

Getting There

Mallaig, Scotland

PARKING

Mallaig offers limited long stay parking in a car park to the left on the Train Station as you drive into Mallaig. Alternatively try another long stay spot at 24 East Bay, Mallaig.

BY RAIL

You can travel by rail overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Fort William. Once in Fort William you can take The Jacobite Steam Train or the electric train direct to Mallaig. Mallaig station is then only a 5-10 minute walk to the harbour pontoons.

BY AIR:

Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport are best placed for access to Mallaig. From either of them take a train onto For William and then onto Mallaig which takes approximately 2-3hours. There are good links direct from the airport to the train and bus terminals for onward travel to Fort William.

STAY IN MALLAIG:

There are plenty of places to stay in Mallaig. Try Chlachain Inn, Seaview Guesthouse or West Highland Hotel.

Getting Home

Oban, Scotland

BY RAIL

Oban station is a 5-10 minute walk from North Pier. Trains run 6 times a day to Glasgow Queen Street Station where there are good travel links to the rest of the UK or back to Mallaig if needed. 

BY AIR:

Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport both require taking a train from Oban which takes approximately 2-3hours. Flights go direct to Stansted Airport.

STAY IN OBAN:

There are plenty of places to stay in Oban. Try Witchwood House, The Scot or Perle Hotels Oban.