Sail Scotland’s Inner Hebrides Islands

Scotland’s Inner Hebrides Islands – A Taster from Oban

Oban → Kerrera → Lismore → Mull → Tobermory → Oban

This taster voyage begins and ends in Oban, a lively harbour town and natural gateway to Scotland’s Inner Hebrides islands. From here, Noonmark VI sets out into sheltered waters, with a flexible route shaped each day by conditions and the skipper’s local knowledge.

A likely first stop is Kerrera or Lismore, both close to Oban and ideal for settling into life aboard. These waters allow time to get comfortable on deck, take the helm if you wish, or simply relax and watch the coastline unfold. The Inner Hebrides offer sheltered sea lochs, quiet anchorages and clear sea air perfect for easy-paced sailing with wide horizons and bays that feel peaceful and remote, even on a short voyage.

Mull, Tobermory and the Islands Beyond

From Kerrera or Lismore, the voyage continues around Mull perhaps anchoring in Tobermory, Loch Spelve, or the quiet coves along the island’s southern edge. Ashore, expect friendly harbour quays, short coastal walks and a sense of island life lived at a leisurely pace: Wooded coast, basalt cliffs and wide sea views toward the Atlantic make Mull’s coastline memorable from the water.

Evenings are typically spent at anchor or alongside, with time to stretch your legs before returning to Noonmark VI for a shared meal. On the final day, the voyage makes a relaxed return to Oban, arriving late morning or early afternoon.

Wildlife of the Inner Hebrides

Wildlife spotting is one of the quiet rewards of sailing in Scotland. It is common to see seals resting on the rocks and gannets plunging into the water. The occasional porpoise or dolphin appears without warning, moving alongside or through the wake before slipping back into the deep. Minke whales are the most commonly encountered, while humpbacks are rarer.

Birdlife is varied throughout the islands:

• Puffins, razorbills and guillemots gather offshore during summer
• Cormorants and shags dry their wings on the rocks
• White-tailed eagles can sometimes be spotted circling over the lochs and higher ground

In quieter anchorages, red deer sometimes move across the hills in the early morning or last light of the day. Curious otters slip along the tideline, rewarding patient watchers. Sightings are never guaranteed, but time on the water and varied anchorages offer good opportunities throughout the voyage.

A Modern Yacht in Remote Waters

Noonmark VI is a modern offshore cruiser-racer that has sailed the world and competed in many prestigious events. She is now owned and skippered by Iain Forsyth, a Scotsman from the West Coast who has sailed these waters all his life.

Guests are actively encouraged to get involved, with plenty of opportunities to help set sails, helm, and plan passages. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the view as she cuts through the water at a good, and sometimes exhilarating, cruising speed.

• Sleeping: berths for up to 6 guests, suited to both private charters and solo travellers
• Comfort: Full heating and air conditioning; Quooker tap for constant hot drinks
• Sailing style: Hands-on encouraged, but relaxed and flexible – join in as much or as little as you like
• Skipper: Experienced, knowledgeable, and at home in these waters

Things to note

Sailing vs Shore time

Do I need to take part in night watches?

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 not be more than 12miles offshore.