Discover the Hebrides with yacht Stravaigin as she explores the islands of Mull, Staffa and beautiful Iona.
Join the modern sailing yacht Stravaigin in Oban, Scotland, for an adventure sailing holiday exploring the Isle of Mull and the neighbouring islands Iona and Staffa
Located on the West coast of Scotland, the Isle of Mull is renowned for its secluded anchorages and abundant wildlife-watching opportunities. Its neighbouring island of Iona boasts ultimate tranquility with crystal clear waters—perfect for wild swimming! This voyage is great for those wanting to explore secluded locations in sheltered waters and get to grips with modern yacht sailing under the guidance of a professional skipper.
- Skippered sailing experience
- Island hopping & exploration
- Wildlife watching
- Great for beginners
- Private cabins
- Wild swimming opportunities
- Full Board
- SUP’s
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
YOUR SAILING AREA
HEBRIDES, SCOTLAND
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 ours boats and guests, you will quickly see why our guests return year on year. With ample remote anchorages where mountains run straight into the sea, miles of atmospheric landscapes, secret coves and uninhabited islands for walking trails ashore, there really is something for everyone.
The main focus of this Hebridean sailing adventure is to explore the islands of Mull and Iona. Once you have boarded, your skipper will have the latest weather forecast and will have a better idea of what you can expect from your holiday. Stravaigin’s owner and skipper, John, has lived and sailed in the Hebrides for a number of years, so he certainly knows all the best spots off the beaten track.
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Island Hopping
Over 70 islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, make up the inner Hebrides so you won’t go short of places to explore under sail. The geography of the landscape also makes for great sailing conditions and shelter if the weather takes a turn. Giving way for a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna spreading over several of the islands, many are home to fascinating ruins and have evidence of diverse clans and communities who once inhabited these remote lands.
The Isle of Mull is one of the larger inhabited islands in the Hebrides and is renowned for its abundance of wildlife. From dolphins, whales and sea eagles, endless walking trails and secluded anchorages, you could spend a week alone just exploring this beautiful island.
Iona sits just off the coast of Mull and its crystal clear, bright blue waters have made it one of our favourite spots in the inner Hebrides. It boasts ultimate tranquillity, blue lagoons and sandy beaches only 1.5 x 3 miles – the perfect spot for some wild swimming! Keep a look out for oystercatchers, sandpipers, redshanks, plovers, curlews and greylag geese as you explore the island on foot and discover the Benedictine Abbey standing on the site of the monastery founded by St Columba.
WILDLIFE
Wildlife watching in the Hebrides is a real treat, with sightings of seabirds such as Black Guillemots in their hundreds while white-tailed eagles soar along the rugged coastline. Sailing with Stravaigin is often rewarded with widespread sightings of birds of prey like Buzzards, Kestrels, Sparrowhawks and Peregrines. The sound of the seabird colonies is magnificently overwhelming, with the call of seabird colonies, Puffins, Guillemots & Razorbills echoing off the cliffs.
Common, Bottlenose and Whitebeak Dolphins are frequent swimmers in the wake of the boats bow and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a Minke or Humpback Whale too.
Things to note
Sailing vs Shore time
Do I need to take part in night watches?
Are there midges in Scotland?
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 12 miles offshore.
Life on board
Wherever you end up with Stravaigin, it will certainly be an adventure to remember and with her owner and skipper born and bred in Scotland, you’re in the best hands to discover all the secret spots. John knows the best trails and as you board Stravaigin, he will be able to give you a rough idea of the itinerary and what can be achieved over the week.
Getting involved
Stravaigin requires no previous sailing experience so you can sit back and enjoy the views although the crew are more than happy to show you the ropes and even give you the helm if you’d like! She’s a great boat to learn how to sail, with a modern winch system and simple gaff rig.
Sleeping, eating and relaxation
Stravaigin is fitted with private double cabins, a spacious saloon area and an outdoor eating cockpit perfect for those summer evenings. Each day guests enjoy delicious locally sourced food as John whips up a feast in the galley of fresh seafood, organic meats and veggies from local islands, not to mention cakes and bread from the Solace Bakery. You’ll be well-fed and all your hot drinks and meals are included in the ticket price.
Into the water
Skipper John is also a trained snorkel instructor so if guests want to experience some truly refreshing wild swimming in Scotland, then do let him know as you board. There are also two paddle boards available for guests to use and discover the nooks and crannies of this fascinating coastline. Wetsuits are not available on-board, so please bring your own if you would like. There are waterproofs available to hire, please let us know at the time of booking.
What’s included
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
- 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
- Use of onboard stand-up paddle-boards
What’s not included
- Waterproofs – but you can hire (average sizing) at £50 per voyage, please let us know at the time of booking.
- Swim towel or wetsuits
- Alcohol
- 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
Kit list
Stravaigin has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. There is no storage for rigid cases – please bring your items in a soft bag.
We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those that have sailed before may have their own preferences!
- Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
- Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
- Wash towel – micro fibre are lightweight and quick drying!
- Swimsuit and swim towel
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)
It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!
- Warm, windproof and waterproof coat and trousers (John does have some waterproofs for hire at £50pp. Please let him know on the number above if you require this hire – cash payable once you board)
- Short waterproof boots
- Sun cream (please use reef safe, eco products where possible)
- Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
- Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
- Camera/binoculars
- Refillable water bottle
- Personal wash kit (please use reef safe, eco products where possible)
- Smidge repellent
- Charging cables for personal devices (there are 12v USB sockets to charge devices)
- A good book to read!
- We advise sleep masks and/or ear plugs!
- Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring
From: North Pier, Oban
To: North Pier, Oban
PARKING
If you arrive by car, there is ample parking in Oban. Secure parking can be found at MacQueen Bros or Stoddarts of Oban, or you could try the Tesco car park 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 six times a day to Glasgow Queen Street Station, which has 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 2-3 hours. Flights go directly to Stansted Airport.
BY COACH/BUS
Bus routes 55 and 150 link Kyle of Lochalsh to Glasnakille. The 915 line runs from Glasgow Airport to Kyle of Lochalsh and takes around 5 and a half hours.
Stravaigin
Guest berths: 6 Rig: Bermudan Sloop
Stravaigin is an old Scots word meaning “to wander with no particular intent”. Her owner and skipper, John, says that this encapsulates his ethos of immersive adventures, exploring and discovering new landscapes, experiences, foods and cultures while creating meaningful experiences and memories that will last forever!
Stravaigin has a modern Bermudan sloop rig with winches and full navigation systems. If you have never sailed before and are looking to learn the ropes, skipper John loves to teach guests and get them involved with all aspects of sailing. Alternatively, she can be sailed single-handedly, so if you’re after a relaxing sailing holiday soaking in the sights and delights of the Hebrides, then that’s fine too!
From taster sailing weekends, guided wild swimming experiences and more adventurous voyages to the outer islands, Stravaigin suits all ages and abilities. Whether you’re travelling solo, or looking to meet like-minded travellers, an adventurous couple looking for something a little different or a group of family and friends looking for a unique private charter experience, sailing with John on Stravaigin is a great choice.
Below decks, Stravaigin has been well-considered and laid out for guests’ optimum comfort. A bright and airy saloon with a large table and TV screen sits next to the generous L-shaped galley, where guests can enjoy local cuisine and home-cooked meals. She has three private double-berth cabins, and two of the double-berth cabins can be separated with a lee-cloth for friends or comfortable solo travellers, and both bathrooms have a shower.
Skipper John also has a passion for sustainability and lessening the impact on the natural world. Stravaigin has a large solar panel array with a large battery bank, which means she can be sailed and operated using significantly less fuel. Sailing with her is an eco-friendly way to travel that minimises carbon emissions and pollution. It encourages a slower pace, allowing guests to appreciate the journey while promoting a deeper connection with nature and enabling exploration of secluded and protected environments.
Deck plan
More about Stravaigin
Are all meals included?
Yes - all meals are included in the price (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, hot drinks) Please note that alcohol/soft drinks are not included. There is an honesty bar onboard.
Can you cater for dietary needs?
Yes, please ask at the time of booking. Vegan and Celiac can not be catered for on Stravaigin.
Are there any added extra's?
No, unless you go ashore. Excursions are not included.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
3x double berths.
Is there a porthole in my cabin?
Yes, all cabins have portholes/deck hatches.
How many toilet/showers does she have?
2 bathrooms, both with showers.
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, Stravaigin does not have laundry on board.
Is there heating on board?
Yes, in all cabins and shower area.
Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
What language is spoken onboard?
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.
What is the currency on board?
GBP - pounds sterling. Cash or bank transfer only.
Are there life jackets provided?
Yes.
How do I get on and off the boat?
Stravaigin is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy. She has a dropped transom with steps so getting on/off the boat is fairly easy.
Are Waterproofs provided?
John does have some offshore sailing jackets/trousers for hire. Please contact him if you would like more information.
Do I need sailing experience?
No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.
Does the boat have any water toys?
There are stand-up paddle-boards and some basic snorkel masks. THere alos some basic hand lines for fishing. Guests are welcome to bring their own rods.
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?
It varies from voyage to voyage so please check in the office.
Guest Reviews
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Remote Islands & Wonderful Wildlife: Sailing the Hebrides
More holidays on Stravaigin
Short Break Sailing & Wildlife Watching in the Hebrides
Sail and explore Mull & Iona
Inspiration for your voyage
Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below. Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below.
JOURNAL






































