The Orkneys, Kirkwall to Stromness

Join Cherokee as she sails around the breathtakingly beautiful Scottish Coastline. There is no better way to experience these waters and islands – with the ability to take you to places that can only be reached by boat.

Begin in Kirkwall, a traditional harbour town in the Orkney Islands. Depending on the wind, you will sail around the islands to reach the harbour of Stromness. Cherokee will sail out to the island of Rousay, which is a particularly beautiful sail and a very rustic mooring spot. On the island, there are beautiful gardens on an estate, Trumland House, which Cherokee’s guests will be able to stroll through the next morning. These gardens are particularly unusual this far north, making them a stunning sight. History enthusiasts will be equally as satisfied, as Rousay is home to some impressive Bronze Age excavations.

The Orkney’s are an archipelago dating back to Viking times with ancient ruins and villages, standing stones and sandy beaches. The wildlife in the Orkneys is spectacular; from high moorland to immense sea cliffs, unspoilt wetlands and pastures, it is a haven for sea life, birdlife and mammals ashore. Orkney has 36 Sites of Special Scientific Interest and 13 Special Protection Areas and 13 RSPB nature reserves. Towering cliffs are home to over a million seabirds, including puffins, thousands of grey and common seals and an array of marine mammals. There are frequent encounters with Common, Bottlenose & Whitebeak dolphins on board these trips, and Risso & Whitesided dolphins are also occasionally sighted. Basking sharks have been scarce the last few years but are still seen and seem to be returning – and we know the hot spots! There are plenty of whales in this part of the world too. Our most common encounters are with Minke – Humpbacks are a less frequent visitor, while the real star of the show is the resident pod of Orca if you’re lucky enough to see them gliding through the water. So keep your eyes peeled and have your binoculars at the ready!

Jouke the Skipper has sailed these waters for a few years now so has a good knowledge of the hotspots off the beaten track. His crew are able to sail the boat without guest input but they are more than happy and willing for guests to get involved! The onboard chef will bring you breakfast, lunch and tea included in your ticket price so climb aboard for great food, exhilarating sailing and wonderful wildlife.

There are currently no voyages scheduled. Please get in touch with the VentureSail team to find out what’s available, or if other upcoming voyages might be suitable.
Call us in the Office on 01872 487288 or email [email protected], and we will be happy to help you find your next adventure!

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The Orkneys, Kirkwall to Stromness

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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

Travel Planning

From: Kirkwall

To: Stromness, The Orkneys

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.