Iona, Staffa – the grand tour 2022

Join tall ship Bessie Ellen in the Scottish harbour town of Oban for a sailing holiday to remember! Explore the West coast of Scotland from the water as Bessie Ellen makes her Grand Tour to the picturesque Iona and Staffa.

Life at Sea

This voyage is perfect for those wanting to experience the magic of Scotland under sail and venture to anchorages off the beaten track, away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

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!

The Grand Tour

Majestic Mull and her outlying islands are certainly one of the highlights of Scotland and perhaps one of the most geologically interesting and spectacular of all the island groups. With ever-changing scenery from the high peaks of Ben Mor, the famously picturesque painted village of Tobermory or to the perfection of saintly Iona, there truly is a special place for everyone.

Hidden on the eastern shore, at the heart of Mull lies Loch Spelve, a classic sheltered sea loch. Rising steeply from the golden shores, soft verdant fields reach up to the high rocky peaks that tower above. A walk along the quiet road leads to the freshwater loch where Golden eagles can be easily spotted once you know where to look.  Otters like it here too. Freshwater and clams are just what they like and for those of you that like the peace and quiet on deck, keep watch for the rippling of the water where a sweet smooth otter head may appear. Whatever the weather, rain or shine this is one of our favourite anchorages.

Little lies beyond the Ross of Mull but the wide Atlantic ocean only broken by the rocky shores of Iona, an emerald isle in a sea of aquamarine.  This is such a lovely place and with little amounts of traffic, you can blend in with the community, visit the ancient abbey or walk the crofter’s paths in search of the ever-elusive corncrake.

If you know a bit about Staffa you probably know that Mendelsohn visited the island and was so inspired by Fingal’s Cave that he wrote his Hebrides Overture.  This tiny basalt island became an accepted venue on the cultural grand Tour of Europe,  with its geological marvels first being made known by the naturalist  Joseph Banks who visited in 1772. He  wrote:

“Compared to this what are the cathedrals and palaces built by men! Mere models of playthings, imitations as his works will always be when compared to those of nature.”  

 

Wildlife in Scotland

Treshnish is, in many ways one of the prettiest of the smaller isles with its high basalt cliffs which are home to a vast colony of seabirds including the charming Puffins and noisy guillemots. Spend time lying on the cliff edge amidst the burrows marvelling at these comical creatures as they crash land a few inches away before tumbling off to catch more sand eels. After anchoring for the night we succumb to the tranquillity of the island knowing there is little to do but walk, watch birds and take in the scenery and the hospitality of this special place.

Keep your eyes peeled throughout your Scottish sailing holiday for a plethora of wildlife spotting opportunities both from the water and on the land. Dolphins, Whales and a many seabird species are regularly spotted with birds of prey, otter and deer to name a few, frequent visitors to these waters.

As with all Bessie Ellen’s sailing holidays, your ticket price includes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks and Drinks. Curtained bunk berths are int he 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.