Expedition to St Kilda – Bessie Ellen 2022

Join tall ship Bessie Ellen in the Scottish harbour town of Oban for a sailing holiday to one of the most remote parts of the UK. Experience the the magic and solitude of the Outer Hebrides and St Kilda as you shake free from modern life and take off on an adventure at sea.

Life at Sea

The time at sea is yours to make your own and guests are invited to become as involved as much as they like by taking the wheel, navigating or hauling the ropes. Bessie Ellen is a traditional tall ship with not a winch in sight so it’s certainly a case of all hands on deck. No experience is needed and new comers are always welcome but a lust for adventure is a must! This hands-on adventure will take you where the wind blows, visiting unique islands, hidden lochs and the amazing array of wildlife there is up here inner seas and skies.

World Heritage

St. Kilda which is also a world heritage site lying out in the Atlantic, 45 miles west of the Outer Hebrides. This isolated and volcanic archipelago was once home to Britain’s most isolated community. The history of the people, its inaccessibility and amazing wildlife make the islands an exceptionally desirable destination for anyone interested in natural history.

Due to weather and swell conditions, sailing to St Kilda is never a guaranteed destination however, if both are favourable Bessie Ellen will sail overnight to arrive in Village Bay in the early morning. On landing, guests will be able to walk around the abandoned village before taking a more energetic climb to the edge of the steepest cliffs in Britain, passing hundreds of small stone huts known as cleits used for storing the Guga. Rare Soay sheep roam here, a primitive breed of today’s domestic sheep. Before returning aboard make sure you get a St. Kilda stamp in your passport!

Back on board, Bessie Ellen will then tour the archipelago, heading for Stac Lee and Boreray to visit the largest gannet colony in the world. This majestic sight will entrance you, millions of sea birds circling the cliffs coming in to nest on the sheer rock face.

The Outer Hebrides

Leaving St Kilda behind, Bessie Ellen will make for the Monach’s, a silent and special cluster of islands that hold the honour of being a nature reserve for the undisturbed machair and their Grey Seal population. About 10,000 come ashore each autumn, making it one of the largest such colonies in the world. With shoes in hand, wander through the flowers and herbs relishing in the tranquil beauty here.

The rest of the voyage will navigate guests to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, from white sandy beaches with crystal clear water to stark rocky hills patched in purple heather. Each day there will be time to walk ashore, climb a mountain or wander along these perfect beaches before heading back for a cosy evening on board.

Turning back towards home, the Shiant Isles and the large puffin colony will entrance before sailing towards the imposing peaks of Skye. Rounding Ardnamurchan Point, the most westerly of mainland Britain, Bessie may anchor in Tobermory before the long day sail back towards the final night, moored at Kerrera just outside of Oban.

Wildlife in the Hebrides

A sailing holiday in Scotland comes with guaranteed wildlife watching and not a week passes without seeing at least three of the Big five – Red Deer, Otter, Seal, Golden Eagle and of course the Red Squirrel. It is possible to stand amongst puffin burrows whilst watching the to-ing and fro-ing of the parent birds as they feed their young with mouths full of eels. Whales and dolphins are often seen out to the North of Colonsay and Canna, mostly Minke but Orca have also been known to visit these waters, so keep those eyes peeled!

As with all Bessie Ellen’s sailing holidays, your ticket price includes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks and Drinks. Curtained bunk berths are in the spacious shared open saloon below decks with bedding provided – you just need to bring your own towel.

Simply click “Enquire Now” to reserve your berth for five days whilst you sort your travel plans. No booking form or deposit is required until you are ready to book!

All voyages for Bessie Ellen

Bessie Ellen

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Rigged Ketch

Step aboard Bessie Ellen, a classic tall ship with over 120 years of history, and embark on a sailing holiday that takes you back to a bygone era. As one of the last West Country trading ketches, Bessie Ellen has a remarkable past. She sailed through the turbulent times of both world wars, and has since been recognised for her historical significance, as she proudly graces the National Historic Ships Register, signifying her importance as a vessel in need of conservation.

Today, Bessie Ellen has transitioned into a vessel that sails the waters of the British Isles and Europe, offering unforgettable hands-on sailing holidays. With a warm and experienced crew, she provides guests with a comfortable and authentic tall ship experience. 

Life on board Bessie Ellen

Sail alongside skipper Nikki and her crew as they navigate the stunning coastlines of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, the Hebrides and  St. Kilda. Discover unique landscapes, encounter abundant wildlife, and enjoy delicious food sourced locally and prepared on board. Joining on this maritime adventure is Bracken, the spirited and seaworthy ship dog, eager to accompany you on your voyage!

Choose from a range of sailing experiences on Bessie Ellen. Opt for a traditional sailing weekend break, delve deeper into the maritime experience with a weeklong trip, or embark on a 10-day exploration to remote destinations. Whichever journey you choose, you can be certain that you will be transported to a world where the wind fills the sails, the sea beckons, and the echoes of history resonate with every nautical mile.

Read more about what to expect from Life on board here.

Sailing on Bessie Ellen is more than just a holiday. As you step aboard this historic vessel, you become part of her living legacy, connecting with the spirit of seafaring that has endured for over a century. Book your voyage with Bessie Ellen today and embark on an extraordinary journey through time.

More about Bessie Ellen

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.

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 at the time of enquiry.

• Are there any added extras?

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

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  There are 12 comfortable berths in the former cargo hold. This is an open plan area that is also used for meals and relaxing. Each bunk has its own reading light and privacy curtain.

• Is there a porthole in my berth?

  There are portholes within the saloon for natural light but not in each berth.

• How many toilets/showers does she have?

  Bessie Ellen has two toilets/showers for guests.

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All your bedding (duvet and pillow) is provided but please bring your own towels (washing and/or swimming).

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, Bessie does not have laundry facilities on board.

• Is there heating on board?

  Yes there is heating if needed!

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What language is spoken on board?

  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 if needed.

• Can I charge my phone or camera?

  Yes. We run generators every day in the morning and evening, which run the 240 volt system of normal 3 pin sockets.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - Pounds Sterling.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

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

• Are waterproofs available?

  No. Please bring your own. There are a few oilskins spare for emergencies only.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  Not at all. We give everyone who joins us on board the choice to do as much or as little as they like, whether the know how to or not.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  No.

• Will I be sea sick?

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

• Is there an age limit?

  No, but we advise over 16's for scheduled voyages as there is an open saloon sleeping arrangement. There is no limit for private charter.

Travel Planning

From: Oban

To: Oban

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

PARKING

There is ample parking in Oban if you arrive by car. Secure parking can be found at MacQueen Bros, or you could try the Tesco carpark and pay for 24 hour parking on arrival using the Your Parking Space app.

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.

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.