For a large part of this trip we spend time in Scottish waters and moor at islands and coastal towns. We start on the Scottish east coast in the offshore port of Scotland: Aberdeen. We are moored between large supply ships that travel up and down the oil rigs in the North Sea. The city itself is worth a visit. It is called “Granite City” because of the many granite buildings and monuments.
At the end of the afternoon you will board and after a good night’s sleep we will depart and travel up the east coast towards the Orkney Islands. We will probably visit Kirkwall. The capital of Orkney is an old Norwegian city, on the dividing line between East and West Mainland. The city was founded in 1035 by a Norwegian Count and the historic centre still has the typical Norwegian atmosphere.
We continue to Sule Skerry. We hope to be able to go ashore here, but if there is too much swell, we will continue sailing. Landing on Sule Skerry is difficult, but if it is possible, it will be worth it. On the island we can spot many puffins, but also storm petrels, black guillemots, large and small hunters and Arctic terns.
Cetaceans can be seen regularly while cruising in this area. A climb up the foremast offers a beautiful view. A number of dolphin species like to swim with ships. Often, they play with the bow water in front, a beautiful show for the crew. During the summer, several whales also reside around the Hebrides. In larger species, it will often be the spray that will be spotted first. Sperm whales (10 to 20 meters), but also killer whales, minke whales, pilot whales, etc. live here.
In the North Minch we visit the Shiant Islands. We go ashore with the dinghies. The Shiant Islands are home to an extraordinarily rich animal world, including grey seals. We also encounter many bird species such as petrels, gannets, shags, puffins, kittiwakes, etc. After exploring the island, we continue sailing. Slowly but surely everyone is getting to know the ship better and better. The apparent maze of lines start to make sense and operating the ship together with your fellow sailors will be a great teamwork experience.
Via the beautiful Loch Broom we sail to our final destination, Ullapool. A rustic village with many walking options. Here our cook prepares a farewell dinner, and the next morning after breakfast you will travel home.
Your ticket price includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and hot drinks. Soft drinks and alcohol can be purchased from the onboard bar. Any food purchased ashore is at your own cost.
All towels and bedding are included in the price although Oosterschelde does ask guests to bring an extra swimming towel. At the end of your trip you can pay your bar tab in either in Euros or Sterling. We do not take card.
