Tall Ship Sailing in the Orkney Islands

YOUR SAILING AREA

Orkney’s, OUTER HEBRIDES & Skye – SCOTLAND

Sailing in the Orkney Islands offers some of the most breath-taking and fascinating sailing grounds in the UK. The landscape and islands that make up the 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.

This sailing holiday with the Flying Dutchman offers a spectacular journey along the Orkney Islands and the Scottish North and West coasts, visiting picturesque towns such as Kirkwall, Stornoway, Portree, Tobermory and Oban. Sail from Wick to Oban together covering over 300Nm where we will sometimes sail through the night. If you are interested, you can participate in the watch system (no obligation!) and sail under the stars. During shore visits to various islands and ports you have an opportunity to explore places under you own steam.

The main focus of this adventure sailing holiday is to reach the Orkney Islands and the Outer Hebridean islands. The wind and weather will determine your route and destination. The skipper and crew will have a better idea of what to expect from the weather as you board.

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Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6pm and after an introduction to the crew, dinner will be served at 7pm where you can get to know your fellow guests. (If you are arriving into Wick earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.) The route will be entirely dependant on the wind direction so there is no fixed itinerary but below is an idea of what we would hope to achieve.

Set the sails early as we head for the Orkney Islands, once part of the Viking Empire. The Orkney Islands are a group of about 200 islands and islets, of which about 20 are inhabited. Our first destination is Kirkwall, the capital, located on the largest island. People have lived on Orkney since the Stone Age, the remains of which can be seen to this day. Skara Brae, the Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and the Ness of Brodgar are World Heritage sites and can be visited during our time in the Orkneys. Whisky lovers are also in the right place on the Orkney Islands, both the Scapa and the Highland Park distillery are located near Kirkwall.

After a few days meandering through the Orkney Islands, we’ll continue sailing for the Outer Hebrides as we arrive into Stornoway, the capital of the largest island of the Hebrides, Lewis and Harris. Lewis and Harris is one island of which the northern part is called the Island of Lewis and the southern part the Island of Harris, separated by a range of rocky mountains, though the border is not clearly drawn.

From Lewis and Harris comes the infamous Isle of Skye with its fantastic scenery and beautiful views from the coast. Portree itself is a picturesque town on a sheltered bay where we can anchor. We’ll spend a few days exploring the plethora of anchorages across Skye and the Small Isles island of Rum.  Rum is an island rich in nature and with an interesting history and a small community of 35 inhabitants. At the end of the bay is the famous “Kinloch Castle” built by the Bulloghs, a wealthy family who owned the whole island. Peeking through the windows will give you an idea of what it once looked like inside.

As we work our way towards our final destination of Oban, we’ll stop off in the picturesque town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.  It is a charming little town with brightly coloured houses and a range of small businesses including a chocolate shop, bakery, candle maker, silversmith, art gallery and pottery. Tobermory is also known for its arts centre, a small theatre company and some good pubs and eateries.

From Tobermory it is a few hours sailing to Oban, along the way we pass the beautifully restored Duart Castle. Oban is a scenically situated town at the foot of the Lorn Mountains. High above the city is McCaigh’s Tower, a 19th-century replica of the Coliseum. Oban is known as the jewel of the west highlands, with its winding streets and picturesque bay filled with yachts, ferries and small fishing boats.

All voyages for Flying Dutchman

Flying Dutchman

Guest berths: 24 Rig: Schooner

Built in 1903, the Flying Dutchman has been recently re-fitted to a high standard for comfortable sailing holidays in Scotland. There is a huge 480m² sail area to propel you through the water and on the Flying Dutchman you will have the option to participate in helping the different sails up and getting to know all the different crafts. You will be guided by an experienced crew to help you with all the different crafts on the ship. If you want to steer the ship, do not hesitate to ask the captain.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables make it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area too. Below decks, there are ten ensuite cabins for guests with bunk beds, all with heating and air-conditioning depending on where you are in the world.

The rear deck is layered with wood, which emphasises the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on, this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

Deck plan

More about Flying Dutchman

One of traditional sailing, sea-faring tales and breath-taking destinations, sailing with the Flying Dutchman is a far cry from its ancestral name. Although a traditionally rigged vessel with an authentic wooden boat feel throughout, the Flying Dutchman has been fitted as a charter vessel to a high, modern standard – providing guests with an authentic sailing experience while ensuring comfort and mod-cons are not forgotten.

Enjoy a balance of traditional sailing harnessing the power of the wind to spending time exploring ashore in hard to reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle. 

Life on board…

Offering sailing tall ship holidays in Scotland and the Hebrides, the Flying Dutchman aims to give guests a traditional tall ship adventure. Family owned and operated, the Flying Dutchman is perfect for solo travellers, couples or older families looking for that classic tall ship experience making memories that will certainly last a life time.

Getting Involved

The crew encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing this fascinating schooner. She is traditionally rigged but also has a winch system so can be sailed comfortably by the crew if guests simply want to put their feet up and enjoy the views! From hoisting the sails, basic rope-work and even some simple navigation skills, you can get involved as much or as little as you’d like.  Once the sails are up you can enjoy the beauty of silently crossing the ocean using just the power of the wind.

Sleeping, eating and Relaxation

A designated chef ensures that you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, soft and hot drinks are all included in the half board ticket price. Evening meals aboard are not included (unless you are tucked up in a secluded anchorage!) and this is done so that guests can experience true Scottish hospitality ashore and support the local economy while enjoying sustainable, local produce.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables make it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area too. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks and all cabins have air-conditioning or heating with all bedding and towels provided.

The rear deck is layered with wood, which emphasises the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on, this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

 

Sample Menu for the flying dutchman

Our menu varies on location, the weather and the rotation cook but this should give you an idea of what to expect.

Breakfast

(Alternating Full English and Continental)

• FULL ENGLISH – Eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, haggis
• CONTINENTAL – Waffles, scones, croissants, eggs, porridge
  served everyday…
• Cereal, yoghurt, fruit salad
• Cold cuts & cheese platter
• Orange juice, milk

Lunch

• Soups with bread (garlic, mini-pizza, onion)
• Pasta salad with side dishes
• Mussels
• Local seafood

Dinner

All meals are served in dishes per table. Every dinner consists of a main course, including a salad and some sides and a dessert. The last evening we’ll have a more extensive meal including a starter (scallops, prawns, smoked venison, etc. depending on availability). Normally the diners are alternating fish or meat.

• Home-made shepherds pie
• Casserole
• Fish or chicken curry
• Fresh salmon
• Beef stew
• Paella

What’s included

The Flying Dutchman works on a half board basis to give guests a chance to experience the local cuisine. All breakfasts, tea, coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included in the ticket price) and eating ashore (not included in the ticket price). If the Flying Dutchman is not able to go ashore for any reason (weather related), guests will be able to eat onboard!

• 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

What’s not included

• Eating ashore
• Waterproofs
• Any 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?

  Breakfast, lunch, snacks & soft drinks are included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Meat eaters and vegetarians only.

• Are there any added extra's?

  Evening meals are not included - these are eaten ashore at guests expense.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  10x twin ensuite cabins and 1x four berth ensuite cabin.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  Yes, every cabin has a porthole.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  11

• 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, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, the Flying Dutchman does not have laundry on board.

• Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

  Yes.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but very much appreciated.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  German/English.

• Is there WIFI?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern conforms 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, there are 220v sockets in every cabin so please bring a 2pin EU adaptor.

• What is the currency on board?

  Euros.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  The Flying Dutchman 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, please bring your own.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  No.

• 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 18's only - no upper age limit, only one rule: You must be able to climb stairs!

Travel Planning

From: Wick

To: Oban

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

Getting There

Wick

BY AIR

Direct flights go to Wick Airport (WIC) from Aberdeen (ABZ) with Eastern Airways. A flight to Aberdeen is very accessible with direct flights going from most major UK airports.

Wick Airport (WIC) is then just 5 minute taxi ride to/from Wick itself.

BY RAIL

You can travel by rail overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Inverness. Inverness station is right in the town centre with easy travel links from the ScotRail mainline. For Wick from Inverness you will need to catch the Far North Line which is about a 4 hour 30 minute journey, runs 4 times a day during the week.

BY COACH/BUS

You can travel by coach to Edinburgh or Glasgow from the rest of the UK with National Express  and megabus. You will then need to change for Inverness onto a service operated by Scottish Citylink and from Inverness Bus Station you will need to catch the X99 bus to Wick.

GETTING HOME

OBAN

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.