Tall Ship Taster Experience in the Hebrides
Discover the west coast of Scotland with a tall ship taster sailing adventure exploring the Isle of Mull.
Your sailing weekend in Scotland begins in Oban – the perfect gateway to the breathtaking world of the Inner Hebrides aboard tall ship Blue Clipper. The focus of this taster voyage is the Isle of Mull, the fourth largest island on Scotland’s west coast and a place best experienced from the water.
From dolphins and whales to sea eagles, puffins and some of the most remote anchorages in the UK, this short break is perfect for those wanting to try tall ship sailing for the first time in a relaxed, supported and genuinely adventurous setting.
- Perfect first tall ship sailing experience
- Isle of Mull, Iona & Treshnish Isles
- Sea eagles, puffins, dolphins & whales
- Remote anchorages & starlit nights
- Ideal for beginners, couples & solos
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
Taster sailing in the Hebrides aboard Blue Clipper
Oban → Isle of Mull → Tobermory → Treshnish Isles → Staffa → Iona → Oban
The Hebrides offer some of the most breathtaking and rewarding sailing grounds in the UK, with remote anchorages where mountains drop straight into the sea, miles of atmospheric coastline, and uninhabited islands that can only be reached by boat. On this sailing weekend in Scotland, the focus is on the Isle of Mull and its surrounding islands, and there is no better way to explore them than from the deck of a tall ship.
Sailing from Oban, you’ll spend your days getting involved with Blue Clipper – learning the ropes, hoisting the sails, taking the helm – before anchoring up to explore ashore. Blue Clipper’s skipper and crew have been sailing these waters for years and know the best spots well off the beaten track. Once on board, the skipper will have the latest forecast and a clear picture of what to expect from the voyage.
Mull’s coastline and surrounding islands form part of a Special Area of Conservation, and the wildlife reflects it. Dolphins in the bow wave, whales breaking the horizon, and sea eagles riding the thermals overhead are all part of the picture. Keep your binoculars to hand.
Mull, Iona and the Treshnish Isles
The Isle of Mull is undoubtedly best seen from the water. Panoramic landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and a coastline studded with secluded bays and skerries make it one of the most rewarding islands in the Hebrides to explore by boat. The iconic harbourside village of Tobermory with its colourful waterfront houses, is a natural stop, and the surrounding waters are rich with marine life at every turn.
Just off the north-west coast of Mull, the Treshnish Isles offer some of the most special anchorages on this sailing weekend in Scotland. Anchor up, take the tender ashore, and sit amongst the puffins on Lunga or explore the extraordinary basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave on Staffa, where the acoustics have inspired composers and the geology stops you in your tracks.
Weather permitting, Blue Clipper will also look to anchor off Iona. A tiny island measuring just 1.5 by 3 miles, its blue lagoons and sandy beaches offer a tranquillity that is genuinely hard to find elsewhere. Keep an eye out for oystercatchers, sandpipers, curlews and the endangered corncrake.
The perfect introduction to tall ship sailing
This taster voyage is designed for those who have never sailed before or who want to try something new in a safe, relaxed and welcoming environment. Blue Clipper is an authentically rigged tall ship, and getting involved is very much encouraged. Whether you’re hoisting a sail, learning a knot, or simply watching the Hebridean coastline slip by from the bow, the experience fits around you.
No sailing experience is needed as the crew will guide you through everything at your own pace, and the atmosphere on board is sociable, friendly and far removed from anything intimidating. Whether you’re travelling solo or as a couple, a sailing weekend in Scotland aboard Blue Clipper has a way of making the world feel a little larger and a little quieter than it did before you stepped on board.
Aboard tall ship Blue Clipper
Built in Sweden in 1991, Blue Clipper is an impressive three-masted gaff rig schooner. Her clipper bow, original teak deck and elegant stern give her a classic tall ship character, while her relatively modern build means guests enjoy an authentic experience alongside all the comforts you’d hope for.
- Six en-suite cabins sleeping up to 12 guests
- Full-size bunks, with a porthole in every cabin
- Heating and air conditioning throughout
- Spacious on-deck saloon, wheelhouse and galley
- Hands-on sailing with a professional crew
- Three kayaks and three paddleboards on board
Things to note
Sailing vs Shore Time
Night Watches?
Midges?
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.
Sailing with tall ship Blue Clipper is certainly an enjoyable, hands-on experience and guests are encouraged to get involved with all aspects of sailing this magnificent tall ship. Spending her summers exploring Scotland and the Hebrides and her winters sailing in the Caribbean, Blue Clipper is the perfect tall ship experience.
Getting involved
From hoisting the sails to taking the helm, the friendly and knowledgeable crew always shows you the ropes. Part of the beauty of sailing with such a magnificent vessel is the opportunity to get involved in a safe and supported environment! The permanent crew are all professionally trained, so as much as guest involvement is encouraged, if you just want to sit back and take in the view or are concerned about your physical ability to hoist ropes, there are plenty of other boat jobs such as coiling ropes, preparing lines and keeping watch! For those more adventurous, climbing the rigging or the bowsprit can also be a great experience.
Dining aboard
For her coastal voyages, Blue Clipper has a dedicated chef on board, too, so you don’t have to worry about cooking after a day of sailing in the salty sea air. Think locally sourced produce, fresh fish, homemade bread with hearty home-cooked meals, and plenty of tea, coffee, and cake!
For her expedition and Atlantic crossings, there will be a boat cook on board.
Sleeping and relaxation
Below decks, Blue Clipper has a large, comfy saloon perfect for sharing sea-faring tales, hearty home-cooked meals or even a game of cards! Rest up after a day of adventure in your spacious private en-suite cabin. With twin bunks, sailing with Blue Clipper is undoubtedly one of comfort and is the perfect choice for couples or solo travellers.
Blue Clipper has two kayaks and paddleboards on board, which guests are welcome to use to explore the nooks and crannies of the coast! There is no extra charge for this, and buoyancy vests are also provided.
A Typical Day
On her coastal voyages, a typical day starts with a good, hearty breakfast before preparing the boat to hoist the sails. Once the sails are set to the next destination, there will be time to relax, read a book, chat to your fellow travellers or simply find a quiet corner and take in the view. Lunch will likely be served underway or at the next anchorage as you spend your afternoons exploring ashore.
Generally, on her expedition crossings and longer voyages, she will spend more time under sail. The day will still be punctuated by regular meal times, and there will likely be a watch system running throughout the voyage as she sails through the night. Stargazing on these longer voyages is spectacular with no light pollution and a complete view of the horizon.
Sample menu
All food is made on board, and local, fresh produce is at the top of the shopping list. Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.
BREAKFAST
- Poached/scrambled eggs, bacon, vine tomatoes, mushrooms
- French toast, bacon, maple syrup
- Porridge, fruit selection
- Toast, preserves and cereal selection
- Tea, fresh coffee and fresh fruit juice
AFTERNOON CAKE
- Tea, coffee, home-made cakes, scones, jam and cream, shortbreads
LUNCH
- Spinach and ricotta tortellini, blue cheese sauce and cherry tomatoes
- Open sandwiches, salad, and crisps
- Cous cous salad, goat’s cheese, roasted red pepper
- Wild mushroom risotto with rocket and herb oil
- Fish goujons, new potatoes, tartar and salad garnish
DINNER
- Starters: Tomato bruschetta, Ardennes pate, salt-baked beetroot, curry aioli, gremolata sesame praline, hot-smoked salmon crostini
- Fillet of coley, crushed new potatoes, asparagus, beurre blanc, dill mayo
- Pork belly, maple-glazed celeriac, turmeric curr, rice and salsa, basil pesto
- Roast chicken thigh, sauteed new potatoes, squash puree, braised carrots, kale, red wine jus
- Spiced bean stew, rocket, herb oil
- Chicken breast, celeriac puree, mash, parma ham crisp, miso mayo
Dessert
- Coffee and cake
- Cheeseboard
Blue Clipper
Guest berths: 12 Rig: Gaff Schooner
Tall ship Blue Clipper has spent many years sailing all over the world and currently spends her summers sailing Scotland and the Hebrides, her autumn months heading south to Spain and Portugal, then setting sail across the Atlantic for some winter sun in the Caribbean.
Built in Sweden in 1991, tall ship Blue Clipper is an impressive three-masted gaff rig schooner. With a clipper bow, original teak deck and elegant stern, she mixes a traditional tall ship feel with a relatively modern build, giving guests an authentic experience with all the mod cons.
On deck, she boasts ample space for her guests to become fully immersed in hands-on sailing, heaving the ropes, hoisting the sails, learning ropes skills, and even taking the helm. She has three kayaks and three paddle boards for guest use while on anchor, so you can explore even further inshore.
She offers voyages to suit all ages and abilities. From taster sailing breaks to week-long explorations in the Hebrides, she also takes those looking for something a little more adventurous across the Atlantic to the Caribbean. From the mystical, moody Scotland to the warm winter sun in the Caribbean, the crew aboard are on permanent rotation, so you’ll be in safe hands whichever voyage you choose.
A spacious saloon, wheelhouse and galley also sit at deck level, while below decks have been well-considered with six spacious ensuite cabins. All cabins have full-size bunks, a small desk, a porthole for natural light and heating/air conditioning.
Deck plan
More about Blue Clipper
More holidays in Scotland
Sailing & Walking Holiday in Scotland’s Hebridean Islands
Scottish Short Break Sailing the Firth of Clyde
Hebrides Short Break Taster Sailing Experience
Guided Sailing & Walking Holiday in Scotland: Mull and the Small Isles
More holidays on Blue Clipper
Tall Ship Sailing in Antigua, Caribbean
Tall Ship Sailing Holiday in Cornwall
Tall Ship Sailing Across the Atlantic to the UK
Remote Scotland: Outer Hebrides & St Kilda Tall Ship Explorer
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
