Sailing to Islay and Mull in Scotland

Sailing Islay and Mull — Inverkip to Oban

Inverkip → Kintyre Peninsula → Islay → Mull → Oban

The voyage begins in Inverkip, a well-sheltered harbour on the upper Firth of Clyde and the perfect place to settle in and get familiar with Noonmark VI. The Clyde’s broad waters offer an easy and scenic start, with views of wooded hills and the distant islands ahead.

Heading south, the route passes the Kintyre peninsula – a dramatic stretch of coastline that opens out toward the Atlantic. If the weather allows, the next stop is Islay, known for its friendly harbours, peaceful walking routes and world-famous whisky distilleries. Time ashore might include a coastal walk, a visit to a local café, or a look around one of the island’s historic distilleries, depending on the day’s plan.

Mull and the Final Leg to Oban

From Islay, the route continues to Mull, where craggy cliffs, sheltered lochs and green hills make for some of the most beautiful sailing in the Inner Hebrides. Anchorages here offer calm evenings and good opportunities to explore ashore, with wildlife often visible close to the water’s edge.

• Mull’s anchorages are quiet and unhurried, with green hills running down to the shore
• Wildlife is frequently spotted close to the water, particularly seals and seabirds
• Oban, the final stop and worth exploring before onward travel

Arrival is usually mid-morning on the final day. The exact route and anchorages will depend on local conditions, with the skipper planning each leg for safe, rewarding sailing with time to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Wildlife of Islay, Mull and 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 with Puffins, razorbills and guillemots gathering offshore during summer. Cormorants and shags dry their wings on the rocks, while 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.