Tall Ship Sailing in the Hebrides

Your Sailing Area

The Inner Hebrides, Scotland

Start your sailing holiday on the West coast of Scotland in the port town of Oban, just a short train ride from Glasgow. Oban is one of our main sailing ports in Scotland providing our boats with a great access point to sail the inner and outer waters of the Hebrides. 

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 our boats and guests, you will quickly see why our guests return year on year. Panoramic landscapes are at every turn, with ancient woodlands lining mountains that plunge straight into the sea. You can travel for miles without seeing a single soul (except the wildlife of course) and you’ll be left memorised by the spell binding beauty that this myth shrouded part of the world has to offer.

There are miles of coast to discover, secret coves for picturesque anchorages and uninhabited islands for walking trails ashore. The itinerary is, of course, dependent on the wind and tides but our crew know all the hotspots off the beaten track and best places to anchor. 

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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 Oban 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.

HEAD NORTH west

Mull and the Treshnish Isles

Set sails for the picturesque harbour village of Tobermory on the island of Mull. Explore ashore, take a visit to the whiskey distillery, visit the small Tobermory Museum and the discover the Marine Exhibition. Enjoy the untouched, wild nature of the Scottish islands, the rugged beauty of Mull, the silence on the water, the indescribable landscape, the jagged coast with its surprising bays and the quiet fishing villages. The second largest island in the inner Hebrides, the Isle of Mull is renowned for its abundant wildlife. From dolphins to whales, to sea eagles and puffins on Lunga there is plenty to watch both from the water and on the land. Mull is home to the iconic harbour side village of Tobermory where colourful houses line the waterfront.

The Small Isles, Rum

The island offers extensive hiking trails into the mountains with rum ponies, sea eagles and deer to name but a few island residents. Rum inspires scientists worldwide with its unique geology, including the core of an ancient volcano that formed the now visible Rum mountains. One of the most popular day trips is a tour of Kinloch Castle, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the life of the Bullough family who built the castle between 1897 and 1900. The castle houses a “orchestrion” made in Germany, which imitates the sound of a whole orchestra by scanning punched paper rolls.

HEAD SOUTH

Jura

Jura was once the hideout for George Orwell as he wrote 1984  and it’s easy to see how he was inspired by the paradise of untouched nature and natural beauty that the island has to offer. The name Jura comes from the Norway and it means “Deer Island” and this still applies today with an estimated 5,500 deer and only around 180 human inhabitants.!

Sitting between Jura and Colonsay lies the infamous whirlpool of Scarba (the third largest in the world!) lying in the Gulf of Corryvreckan. Don’t worry though, Flying Dutchman will steer well clear and instead you can watch this natural wonder on foot from the cliff on the coast of Jura.

Experience incredible wildlife watching in the Hebrides.

Along the rugged coastline, witness the majestic flight of white-tailed eagles, while flocks of Black Guillemots adorn the skies. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot an array of birds of prey, including Buzzards, Kestrels, Sparrow-hawks, and the elusive Merlin – so keep your binoculars at the ready!

Delight in the graceful movements of Fulmars and Hooded Crows as they navigate the air, while Gannets create a mesmerising spectacle as they plunge into the open sea. During our sailing holidays, you’ll frequently encounter the playful Common, Bottlenose, and White beak dolphins, and if luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of the rare Risso and White-sided dolphins.

Although basking sharks have been less prevalent in recent years, their return to Scotland brings renewed excitement to our voyages. The waters of the Hebrides are home to a variety of marine species including whales. The most common sightings include the graceful Minke whales, with occasional appearances by the majestic Humpbacks. However, the true stars of the show are the resident pod of Orca, their presence in the water an awe-inspiring sight to behold. 

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 not more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are there any added extra's?

  No, unless you go ashore. Excursions are not included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Vegetarians only.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  German/English

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  10x double ensuite cabins and 1x four berth ensuite cabin

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  11

• Is there WIFI?

  No, but you should easily be able to reach 3G/4G from the shore.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  TBC

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• 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 bedding included?

  All bedding and wash towels are included. Please bring a swimming towel if you wish to swim ashore.

Travel Planning

From: Oban

To: Oban

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

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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 – https://witchwoodhouseoban.com/

The Scot – https://thescotoban.com/

Perle Hotels – https://perlehotels.com/oban/