Sailing in the Outer Hebrides & St Kilda

YOUR SAILING AREA

Outer Hebrides and St Kilda, SCOTLAND

The main focus of this adventure sailing holiday is to reach the Outer Hebridean islands and as long as the weather is favourable, reach the far flung archipelago of St Kilda. The wind and weather will determine your route and destination so it is never 100% guarantee that St Kilda will be reached. Once you have boarded, your skipper will have the latest weather forecast and will have a better idea of what you can expect from your holiday. Stravaigin’s owner and skipper John has lived and sailed in the Hebrides for a number of years so he certainly knows all the best spots off the beaten track.

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Islands shrouded in Mystery

Lying out in the Atlantic, 45 miles west of the Outer Hebrides, St Kilda was once home to Britain’s most isolated community. It is the UK’s only site to have been awarded its UNESCO status for both its cultural and natural heritage. The history of the people, its inaccessibility and amazing wildlife make the islands an exceptionally desirable destination for anyone interested in natural history and bucket list adventures. Now uninhabited since the last humans were evacuated in the 1930’s, humans have been recorded living on St Kilda for over 2000 years with archeological research dating human traces as far back as the Neolithic period.

Explore the main island of Hirta with epic views of the other islands and stacks in the group – Dun, Soay, Stac Lee, Boreray and Stac an Armin.  The rest of the voyage will navigate guests to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, which is only accessible by sea. Think white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters framed by stark rocky hills patched in purple heather. If the weather doesn’t allow us to get out to St Kilda, rest assured, the Outer Hebrides is home to a wide choice of equally interesting islands to discover under sail.

Some popular and remote anchorages in the Outer Hebrides include Eriskay, Barra Head, Mingulay, Vatersay, Taransay, Scarp and the Monach Islands. Anchor up and explore these wonders by foot whilst soaking up the rugged coastlines and keeping your eyes peeled at all times for exotic flora, fauna, wildlife and interesting archaeological remains.

WILDLIFE

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

Common, Bottlenose and Whitebeak Dolphins are frequent swimmers in the wake of the boats bow and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a Minke or Humpback Whale too.

All voyages for Stravaigin

Stravaigin

Guest berths: 6 Rig: Bermudan Sloop

Owned and skippered by a Scottish sailing family, Stravaigin offers guests sailing holidays on Scotland’s west coast in some of the best cruising grounds the Hebrides has to offer.

Stravaigin is an old Scots word meaning “to wander with no particular intent”.  Her owners say that this encapsulates their ethos of immersive adventures, exploring and discovering new landscapes, experiences, foods, cultures while creating meaningful experiences and memories that will last forever!

Below decks, Stravaigin has been well-considered and laid out for guests’ optimum comfort. The bright and airy saloon with a large table and TV screen sits next to the generous L-shaped galley where guests can enjoy local cuisine and home-cooked meals. She has three private double-berth cabins, and two of the double-berth cabins can be separated with a lee-cloth for friends or comfortable solo travellers, and both bathrooms have a shower.

Stravaigin has a modern Bermudan sloop rig with winches and full navigation systems. If you have never sailed before and are looking to learn the ropes, Stravaigin’s skipper John, loves to teach guests and get them involved with all aspects of sailing. Alternatively, she can be sailed single-handedly so if you’re after a relaxing sailing holiday soaking in the sights and delights of Scotland and the Hebrides, then that’s fine too!

Skipper John also has a passion for sustainability and lessening the impact of the natural world. Stravaigin has a large solar panel array with a large battery bank which means she can be sailed and operated using significantly less fuel. Sailing with her is an eco-friendly way to travel that minimizes carbon emissions and pollution. It encourages a slower pace, allowing guests to appreciate the journey while promoting a deeper connection with nature and enabling exploration of secluded and protected environments.

Sailing holidays on Stravaigin vary from day sails in the Inner Hebrides to week-long sailing adventures exploring the West coast of Scotland. Perfect for solo travellers, couples or families looking for private charters.

Deck plan

Life on board

Wherever you end up with Stravaigin, it will certainly be an adventure to remember and with her owner and skipper born and bred in Scotland, you’re in the best hands to discover all the secret spots. John knows the best trails and as you board Stravaigin, he will be able to give you a rough idea of the itinerary and what can be achieved over the week.

Getting involved

Stravaigin requires no previous sailing experience so you can sit back and enjoy the views although the crew are more than happy to show you the ropes and even give you the helm if you’d like! She’s a great boat to learn how to sail, with a modern winch system and simple gaff rig.

Sleeping, eating and relaxation

Stravaigin is fitted with private double cabins, a spacious saloon area and outdoor eating cockpit perfect for those summer evenings. Each day guests enjoy delicious locally sourced food as John whips up a feast in the galley of fresh seafood, organic meats and veggies from local islands, not to mention cakes and bread from the Solace Bakery. You’ll be well-fed and all your hot drinks and meals are included in the ticket price.

Into the water

Skipper John is also a trained snorkel instructor so if guests want to experience some truly refreshing wild swimming in Scotland, then do let him know as you board. There are also two paddle-boards available for guests to use and discover the nooks and crannies of this fascinating coastline. Wetsuits are not available on-board so please bring your own if you would like. There are waterproofs available to hire, please let us know at the time of booking.

Sustainable Travel

A sailing holiday is a sustainable way to travel that is in harmony with the environment. By using wind power, our vessels reduce reliance on fossil fuels, helping to minimize carbon emissions and pollution.

Sailing at a slower pace allows travellers to appreciate the journey and destinations without feeling rushed fully. This type of travel promotes a deeper connection with nature as the rhythmic movement of the boat and the sound of the wind create a sense of serenity.

Guests can explore secluded coves and untouched coastlines while preserving the pristine environments. With careful navigation and respect for marine life, a sailing holiday embodies responsible tourism, leaving only footprints and unforgettable memories behind.

Things to note

Sailing vs Shore time

Do I need to take part in night watches?

Are there midges in Scotland?

Kit list

Stravaigin 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 that have sailed before may have their own 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 are 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 (John does have some waterproofs for hire at £50pp. Please let him know on the number above if you require this hire – cash payable once you board)
• Short waterproof boots
• Sun cream (please use reef safe, eco products where possible)
• 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)
• Smidge repellent 
• Charging cables for personal devices (there are 12v USB sockets to charge devices)
• A good book to read!
• We advise sleep masks and/or ear plugs!
• Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

What’s included

• Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Use of onboard stand-up paddle-boards

What’s not included

• Waterproofs – but you can hire (average sizing) at £50 per voyage, please let us know at the time of booking.
• Swim towel or wetsuits
• Alcohol
• 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 be more than 12 miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes - all meals are included in the price (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, hot drinks) Please note that alcohol/soft drinks are not included. There is an honesty bar onboard.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes, please ask at the time of booking.

• Are there any added extra's?

  No, unless you go ashore. Excursions are not included.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  3x double berths.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  Yes, all cabins have portholes/deck hatches.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  2 bathrooms, both with showers.

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, Stravaigin does not have laundry on board.

• Is there heating on board?

  Yes.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English

• Is there WIFI?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern conforms 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.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes.

• What is the currency on board?

  GBP - pounds sterling.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  Stravaigin is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy. She has a dropped transom with steps so getting on/off the boat is fairly easy.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  John does have some offshore sailing jackets/trousers for hire. Please contact him if you would like more information.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  There are stand-up paddle-boards and some basic snorkel masks.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.

• Is there an age limit?

  It varies from voyage to voyage so please check in the office.

Travel Planning

From: North Pier

To: Mallaig Harbour

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

GETTING THERE

OBAN

PARKING

There is ample parking in Oban if you arrive by car. Secure parking can be found at MacQueen Bros, or you could try the Tesco carpark and pay for 24 hour parking on arrival using the Your Parking Space app.

BY RAIL

Oban station is a 5-10 minute walk from North Pier. Trains run 6 times a day to Glasgow Queen Street Station where there are good travel links to the rest of the UK.

BY AIR

Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport both require taking a train from Oban which takes approximately 2-3hours. Flights go direct to Stansted Airport.

STAY IN OBAN:

There are plenty of places to stay in Oban. Try Witchwood House, The Scot or Perle Hotels Oban.