Sailing in the Hebrides; Jura and Mull

Your Sailing Area

Hebrides, Scotland

The Hebrides is considered to be one the most interesting sailing locations in the UK with hundreds of uninhabited islands and hard-to-reach locations waiting to be discovered. Exploring the Hebrides under sail is certainly the best way to see this diverse, panoramic landscape. This voyage will focus on exploring the Isles of Mull and the Southerly islands of Jura and Colonsay, each with its very own unique personality and quirk.

The second largest island in the inner Hebrides, the Isle of Mull is renowned for its abundant wildlife. From dolphins to whales, to sea eagles and puffins on Lunga, there is plenty to watch both from the water and on the land. Mull is home to the iconic harbourside village of Tobermory where colourful houses line the waterfront while Jura boats vast scenic landscapes, rolling hills and famous whisky distilleries.

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The Treshnish Isles sit just off the North Westerly side of Mull and are amazing for remote anchorages away from the tourist hustle and bustle. Anchor up and take the tender ashore as you sit amongst the “sea parrots” (puffins) or try your best singing voice in the basalt columns of Fingals Cave.

The Gulf of Corryvreckan lies between the islands of Jura and Colonsay and is home to the world’s third-largest whirlpool, Scarba. Don’t worry though, we will steer clear by boat and instead, you can witness this natural wonder on foot from the cliff on the coast of Jura! Jura, once the hideout for George Orwell to complete his famous 1984,  has only 200 inhabitants, massively outnumbered by its wild deer population which has been counted at approximately 5000.

The Isle of Colonsay is one of the smallest inhabited Hebridean islands and is known for its tranquillity and unspoilt natural beauty. Kiloran Bay is the most famous of many sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. From otters to seals to wild goats and a plethora of wild plants; Colonsay is rich in wild and unspoilt nature.

Over half of the islands that comprise the Inner Hebrides are uninhabited, giving way to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, taking over several of the islands. Many of these islands are home to fascinating ruins and have evidence of diverse clans and communities who once inhabited these remote lands – much of this is viewed easily from the sea, however, once Steady is anchored you will be free to explore the islands and their history on foot.

WILDLIFE

Sightings of seabirds such as Black Guillemots can be seen in their hundreds and white-tailed eagles soar along the rugged coastline. Sailing on Steady is often rewarded with widespread sightings of birds of prey like Buzzards, Kestrels, Sparrowhawks and Peregrines and, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the diminutive Merlin. The sound is magnificently overwhelming, with the call of seabird colonies, Puffins, Guillemots & Razorbills, echoing off the cliffs.

There are frequent encounters with Common, Bottlenose & Whitebeak dolphins onboard these trips, and Risso & White-sided dolphins are also occasionally sighted. 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!

All voyages for Steady

Steady

Guest berths: 8 Rig: Staysail Ketch

Join husband and wife team, Jan-Willem and Mariëlle Kerkmeer aboard their 1993 Dutch ketch as they take guests on sailing holidays exploring the wonders of the Hebrides in Scotland.

Steady is true to her name with a sturdy steel hull and was originally built as a charter vessel giving a considered layout below decks. Fitted with all the mod-cons and keeping guests comfort at the forefront, she sleeps eight guests in four comfortable twin cabins sharing two bathrooms with a generous shower. Newly re-fitted for 2022, the galley and saloon area live at the heart of the boat with a peninsula galley and plenty of seating alongside the cosy multi-fuel stove.

On deck level there’s a spacious cockpit with a navigation station and more seating, perfect for breakfast and morning coffee as the sun rises. There’s plenty of room on deck too to take in the surrounding views and learn the ropes alongside Jan-Willem and Mariëlle who love sharing their passion for Scotland and sailing with their guests.

Onboard Steady, most guests like to lend a hand with the sailing of this eye-catching vessel, and Jan-Willem and Mariëlle are excellent guides if you do want to get involved. They cater for all abilities and ages, so if you’d rather sit back and relax with a book, then that’s fine too!

Steady’s voyages explore the islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides and St Kilda; an area of unspoilt wilderness and breathtaking beauty in the Western Isles of Scotland. Her sailing adventures give you access to the most captivating and remote hidden secrets of this incredible and beautiful place. As you sail through this stunning marine landscape you will likely be lucky enough to experience close encounters with rare wildlife and have time to soak up the unique and fascinating history and culture of the Hebrides and St Kilda.

Watch this short video of Steady sailing around Oban.

Steady Deck Plan 

Deck plan

More about Steady

Life on board

Steady has been sailed in Scotland by Dutch husband and wife team Jan-Willem and Marielle for over 10 years. Their love for Scotland, sailing and the natural world is clear for guests to see and they are well versed in all the secret hot spots.

Getting Involved

Steady is true to her name with her simple rig and winch system easy to navigate, providing a great base for guests to learn the ropes. Jan-Willem and Marielle can sail Steady comfortably on their own but they invite and encourage guests to take part in all aspects of sailing. From taking the helm, sorting and setting the sails, basic navigation and rope work, Jan-Willem and Marielle provide a safe and supported environment for guests.

A Typical Day

Set the sails after a hearty breakfast with the aim (depending on the weather of course!) to sail for 4-7 hours before finding a secluded anchorage away from the tourist hustle and bustle to settle down for the night. Lunch will either be served under sail or on anchor, made by Jan-Willem and Marielle in the spacious galley.

Spend a few hours exploring ashore in the afternoon before sharing a delicious freshly prepared meal aboard while sharing sea-faring tales and star-gazing on deck.

Sleeping and Relaxation

The main deck is well designed with plenty of open spaces and a cockpit for alfresco dining. The undercover deckhouse has 360-degree windows so is great for morning coffee while watching the sunrise or some shelter if the Scottish weather takes a turn!

Below decks give way for a beautifully appointed galley kitchen and generous, comfortable saloon which has been recently re-fitted to a high standard. The fore leads along a small corridor where there are four well-considered twin bunk cabins with a toilet and separate shower for guests. The crew quarters are situated in the stern so have their facilities.

Read more about what to expect from life on board Steady here.

As with all Steady’s sailing holidays, your ticket price includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and hot drinks. Soft drinks and alcohol can be purchased on board.  Single occupancy is available with a 50% surcharge. All cabins have bedding and towels provided.  There is a suggested age limit on Steady’s trips so if you are over 75 years old and are interested in sailing with Steady, please give us a call in the office. 

Kit list

Steady 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 who have sailed before may have their 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 is 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 (There are some offshore MUSTO waterproof sailing jackets and trousers for guests’ use whilst on board but these are not permitted to be taken off the boat and are limited so please let us know if they are needed)
• Waterproof boots or clean Wellington boots 
• Sun cream (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
• Smidge repellent
• 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)
• Charging cables for personal devices (there are 12v USB sockets to charge devices)
• A good book to read!
• We advise sleep masks and/or earplugs!

SAMPLE MENU FOR Steady

All food is freshly prepared on board using locally sourced produce as much as possible. Please note that this is an example of what you may be served.

BREAKFAST

• Scottish Porridge
• Fresh fruit, yoghurt
• Toast and preserves
• Eggs (how you like them!)

LUNCH

• Homemade pumpkin soup with naan bread
• Fish soup served with canapé with smoked salmon
• Tuna salad with bread

DINNER

Appetisers; toast with different cheeses, nuts, olives

Mains

• Mussels from Isle of Mull, served with bread, potatoes and mixed salad
• Lamb stew served with couscous salad and green beans
• Crispy skinned salmon, served with sweet potatoes, bimi, salad and homemade mayonnaise
• BBQ with meat from Kerrera Balliemore Farm, served with baked potatoes, salad and fresh vegetables
• Pumpkin curry Jack fruit with coleslaw (V)

DESSERT

• Homemade chocolate mousse and cream
• Homemade cheesecake with lemon sorbet
• Crepe with ice cream, fruit and chocolate sauce

After dinner; coffee/tea with chocolate or bonbons

What’s included

• All meals are included in the price (breakfast, lunch, dinner and hot drinks) *plus one glass of wine with your evening meal.
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Walking guides
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Musto sailing waterproof suits whilst on the boat (standard sizing)

What’s not included

• Alcohol and soft drinks
• 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

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 12 miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included in the price?

  Yes - meals are included in the price (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks & hot drinks)

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  We can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten and dairy free diets.

• Are there any added extras?

  There's an honesty bar for soft drinks and alcohol.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  4x twin bunk bed cabins.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  No.

• How many bathrooms/showers does she have?

  Steady has a separate toilet and shower for guests.

• Are bedding and towels provided?

  All bedding and shower towels are provided but please bring Swimming towels if you wish to swim in the sea! Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No but you are welcome to take your own onboard for use when the generator is running.

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, Steady does not have laundry on board for guests.

• Is there heating on board?

  Yes, there is a diesel powered stove for heating and all cabins have central heating.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What language is spoken on board?

  Jan-Willem and Mariëlle are Dutch, however they are fluent in English & Mariëlle can speak German.

• Is there WIFI aboard?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern tech 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 if travelling abroad.

• How do I charge my phone?

  There are power sockets throughout the saloon for charging.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling or Euro's depending on the voyage.

• Are there Life Jackets provided?

  Yes

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Steady is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up and over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

• Are there Waterproofs available?

  Yes, Steady has Musto sailing suits for each guest in average sizing while sailing. Please bring a waterproof if you wish to wear one ashore.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a love for adventure.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  No water toys but there is fishing gear.

• Will I be seasick?

  Everyone reacts differently but if you are unsure we recommend you take seasick tablets 24hours before you board.

• Is there an age limit for Steady's guests?

  Yes, her maximum age limit is a guide of 75 years for most voyages. Some of her expedition adventures vary so please check each voyage or give us a call in the office. Please check if you have any under 18's.

Travel Planning

From: North Pier, Oban

To: North Pier, Oban

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

Getting There

BY AIR

Glasgow OR Edinburgh Airport both require taking a train onto Oban which takes approximately 2-3hours. Flights go direct from Stansted Airport for around £30 return. There are good links direct from the airport to the train and bus terminals for onward travel to Oban.

BY RAIL

Oban station is only a 5-10 minute walk to North Pier. Trains run 6 times a day from Glasgow Queen Street Station. Visit First Scotrail for times and fares.

BY COACH

If you are travelling by coach to Oban you can visit the Citylink website for timetables or call 08705505050.

PARKING

For long-stay secure parking, we recommend Stoddarts of Oban on 01631 564176 . We advise booking early as they can get busy! Another option is to take your chance in an un-metered residential area but Oban is a small town and the summer months can get busy. OR try yourparkingspace.com where you can park in the Tesco car park.