Guided Wild Foraging & Sailing in Scotland
- Vessel: Stravaigin
- Where: Oban, Scotland
- Duration: 4 days
- Embark: North Pier - 20 September 2024, 11:00
- Disembark: North Pier - 23 September 2024, 16:00
Join modern yacht Stravaigin on the West coast of Scotland as she explores the Inner Hebrides with a wild food foraging and sailing experience.
Join modern sailing yacht Stravaigin in Oban, Scotland for a sailing and wild food foraging holiday. Spend four days exploring the island of Mull with skipper John and local foraging guide, Heather.
This voyage is perfect for those wanting to try a new adventure and explore one of the best sailing areas in the UK. Perfect for beginners or those short on time, this weekend sailing adventure requires no previous sailing experience, with born and bred Scottish skipper John on hand to show you the ropes and take you to the very best secluded anchorages.
- Skippered sailing experience
- Wild Foraging Guide
- Island hopping & exploration
- Wildlife watching
- Great for beginners
- Private cabins
- Wild swimming opportunities
- Package Travel Cover
- Full Board
- Sail area & highlights
- Gallery
- Life on board
- Kit list
- Travel planning
- The boat
- FAQs
- What's included
- Boat schedule
YOUR SAILING AREA
HEBRIDES, SCOTLAND
One of our most popular sailing holiday destinations, the coasts and islands that make up the West Coast of Scotland offer so much variation for ours boats and guests, you will quickly see why our guests return year on year. With ample remote anchorages where mountains run straight into the sea, miles of atmospheric landscapes, secret coves and uninhabited islands for walking trails ashore, there really is something for everyone.
This voyage has a special focus on wild food foraging in the Hebrides and our itinerary allows us to flexibly sail between islands and remote mainland bays. We will go ashore with Heather, our walking and foraging guide as she introduces us to wild foods during our time ashore. Heather has spent over five decades exploring the west coast of Scotland and enjoying wild foods from a very young age.
The varieties of species change from shore to hillside making for an interesting array of flavours and tastes that can be brought to the table or identified for future reference. We ensure we take great care around the species and special qualities these wonderful places offer and can help you gain knowledge about foraging wild foods sustainably, as well as learning about the animals and insects they benefit.
Each day we will enjoy exploring the beauty of our chosen destination, its clear waters, coast and landscape and discover a little more about the wild foods that grow there. At dinner we can enjoy the addition of wild treats, from embellishments we have found on the day to specially created dishes, before spending the night at anchor under a blanket of stars, perhaps with a dram or hot chocolate in hand recounting the day’s adventures, planning, and looking forward to the next.
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Island Hopping
Over 70 islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, make up the inner Hebrides so you won’t go short of places to explore under sail. The geography of the landscape also makes for great sailing conditions and shelter if the weather takes a turn. Giving way for a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna spreading over several of the islands, many are home to fascinating ruins and have evidence of diverse clans and communities who once inhabited these remote lands.
The Isle of Mull is one of the larger inhabited islands in the Hebrides and is renowned for its abundance of wildlife. From dolphins, whales and sea eagles, endless walking trails and secluded anchorages, you could spend a week alone just exploring this beautiful island.
Iona sits just off the coast of Mull and its crystal clear, bright blue waters have made it one of our favourite spots in the inner Hebrides. It boasts ultimate tranquility, blue lagoons and sandy beaches only 1.5 x 3 miles – the perfect spot for some wild swimming! Keep a look out for oystercatchers, sandpipers, redshanks, plovers, curlews and greylag geese as you explore the island on foot and discover the Benedictine Abbey standing on the site of the monastery founded by St Columba.
WILDLIFE
Wildlife watching in the Hebrides is a real treat with sightings of seabirds such as Black Guillemots seen in their hundreds while 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 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”. Stravaigin’s 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 with one ensuite. 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 crew love 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!
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
More about StravaiginLife 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.
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
- Wild Foraging Guide
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
PACKAGE TRAVEL REGULATIONS
THIS TRIP IS COVERED BY OUR PACKAGE TRAVEL REGULATIONS. MINIMUM PASSENGER = 3
Please click here to view the Terms & Conditions.
If the minimum number of participants is not reached within 60 days of the departure date then the tour may be cancelled or rescheduled. If the tour is cancelled you will receive a full refund of all payments made including the deposit made at the time of booking. We have yet to cancel a tour on Stravaigin but we operate with transparency and honesty!
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 not more than 12miles offshore.
FAQ
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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.
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Can you cater for dietary needs?
Yes, please ask at the time of booking.
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Are there any added extra's?
No, unless you go ashore. Excursions are not included.
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What are the sleeping arrangements?
3x double berths.
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Is there a porthole in my cabin?
Yes, all cabins have portholes/deck hatches.
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How many toilet/showers does she have?
2 bathrooms, both with showers.
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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.
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Is there a hairdryer on board?
No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!
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Will I be able to wash my clothes?
No, Stravaigin does not have laundry on board.
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Is there heating on board?
Yes.
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Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
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What language is spoken onboard?
English
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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.
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Can I charge my phone/Camera?
Yes.
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What is the currency on board?
GBP - pounds sterling.
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Are there life jackets provided?
Yes.
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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.
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Are Waterproofs provided?
John does have some offshore sailing jackets/trousers for hire. Please contact him if you would like more information.
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Do I need sailing experience?
No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.
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Does the boat have any water toys?
There are stand-up paddle-boards and some basic snorkel masks.
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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.
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Is there an age limit?
It varies from voyage to voyage so please check in the office.
Gallery
imageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageimageTravel Planning
From: North Pier
To: North Pier
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.