Flying dutchman anchored off isle of Iona, Hebrides, Scotland
Scotland Arisaig Small Isles sailing
Flying Dutchman guests and skipper life onboard navigation in the Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman under sail
Scotland Hebrides Small Isles
Flying Dutchman guests on deck relaxing with coffee taking in the views of the Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman Aerial from above sailin towards Oban, Hebrides, Scotland
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Scottish Small Isles Sailing Onboard the Flying Dutchman

Vessel:
Where: Oban, Scotland
Duration: 0 days / nights
Activity: Level 1
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Sail and explore the spell binding beauty of Skye and the Small Isles with traditional tall ship the Flying Dutchman.

Join tall ship the Flying Dutchman in the Scottish harbour town of Oban on the West Coast of Scotland.

This adventure sailing holiday in the inner Hebrides will focus on sailing and exploring the Skye and the Small Isles with breathtaking landscapes, historical castles, abbey ruins and a plethora of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Perfect for those looking to experience a traditionally rigged tall ship while discovering the breathtaking seclusion of the inner Hebrides.

  • Fully crewed tall ship
  • Traditional Rig
  • Hands-on Experience
  • Private ensuite cabins
  • Island hopping
  • Half-board
decorative underline

Need some help?
Talk to the team

Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592

Sail area

YOUR SAILING AREA

The Small Isles, Scotland

Made up of four islands; Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna, the Small Isles have much to offer. Breathtaking coastal landscapes, untouched nature, secluded sandy beaches and idyllic retreats, make for the perfect sailing holiday destination.

The island of Rum is a paradise for wildlife and is home to the impressive but now derelict Kinloch Castle. The island of Eigg attracts archaeologists and ornithologists with its fascinating geology and biodiversity. The island of Muck is the smallest of the islands and is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Canna is finally the westernmost of the Small Isles and is run by the National Trust for Scotland as a farm, but also offers a cafe-restaurant, an excellent meeting place for guests and inhabitants of the island.

Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6 pm and after an introduction to the crew, dinner will be served at 7 pm where you can get to know your fellow guests. (If you are arriving in Oban earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.) The route will be entirely dependent on the wind direction so there is no fixed itinerary.

The island of Muck is our first destination as long as the weather and wind permits. Only 3 km long and 1.5 km wide, it is the smallest of the “Small Isles” with 38 permanent residents. With a fertile hillside landscape and white sandy beaches, there are plenty of places to explore. Take a hike to the highest point of Beinn Airein for some impressive highland views or visit the prehistoric fortress of Caisteal an Duin Bhain.

Our next stop is the island of Rum. The island offers extensive hiking trails into the mountains with rum ponies, sea eagles and deer to name but a few island residents. Rum inspires scientists worldwide with its unique geology, including the core of an ancient volcano that formed the now-visible Rum mountains. One of the most popular day trips is a tour of Kinloch Castle, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the life of the Bullough family who built the castle between 1897 and 1900. The castle houses an “orchestrion” made in Germany, which imitates the sound of a whole orchestra by scanning punched paper rolls.

The Isle of Skye is a truly magical place. The largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Skye is home to some of Scotland’s most famous landscapes. This island will inspire you in many ways, with its stunning mountain chains and miles of coastline to discover. Visit the Talisker brewery, take a hike or discover the island by bus!

Set sails for the picturesque harbour village of Tobermory on the island of Mull. Explore ashore, take a visit to the whiskey distillery, visit the small Tobermory Museum and discover the Marine Exhibition. Enjoy the untouched, wild nature of the Scottish islands, the rugged beauty of Mull, the silence on the water, the indescribable landscape, the jagged coast with its surprising bays and the quiet fishing villages.

Things to note
Sailing vs Shoretime
There will be a good balance of sailing and exploring ashore everyday.
Nightwatches?
It is unlikely that the Flying Dutchman will sail overnight on this voyage.

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 no more than 12 miles offshore.

Life Onboard the Flying Dutchman

One of traditional sailing, sea-faring tales and breath-taking destinations, sailing with the Flying Dutchman is a far cry from its ancestral name. Although a traditionally rigged vessel with an authentic wooden boat feel throughout, the Flying Dutchman has been fitted as a charter vessel to a high, modern standard – providing guests with an authentic sailing experience while ensuring comfort and mod-cons are not forgotten.

Enjoy a balance of traditional sailing, harnessing the power of the wind, and exploring ashore in hard-to-reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle. 

Offering sailing tall ship holidays in Scotland and the Hebrides, the Flying Dutchman aims to give guests a traditional tall ship adventure. Family owned and operated, the Flying Dutchman is perfect for solo travellers, couples or older families looking for that classic tall ship experience, making memories that will certainly last a lifetime.

Getting Involved

The crew encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing this fascinating schooner. She is traditionally rigged but also has a winch system, so it can be sailed comfortably by the crew if guests simply want to put their feet up and enjoy the views! From hoisting the sails, basic rope work and even some simple navigation skills, you can get involved as much or as little as you’d like.  Once the sails are up, you can enjoy the beauty of silently crossing the ocean using just the power of the wind.

Sleeping, eating and Relaxation

A designated chef ensures you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and soft and hot drinks are all included in the half-board ticket price. Evening meals aboard are not included (unless you are tucked up in a secluded anchorage!), and this is done so that guests can experience true Scottish hospitality ashore and support the local economy while enjoying sustainable, local produce.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes, providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks, and all cabins have air conditioning or heating. All bedding and towels are provided.

The rear deck is layered with wood, emphasising the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck, there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on. This area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

 

What’s included

The Flying Dutchman works on a half board basis to give guests a chance to experience the local cuisine. All breakfasts, tea, coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included in the ticket price) and eating ashore (not included in the ticket price). If the Flying Dutchman is not able to go ashore for any reason (weather related), guests will be able to eat onboard!

  • 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

What’s not included

  • Eating ashore
  • Waterproofs
  • 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

Kit list

The Flying Dutchman has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. Each bunk is allocated a storage chest to store your items, but there is no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack. 

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)
  • Please consider waterproof sailing boots
  • Flip-flops or crocs for wet room showering
  • Swimsuit and swim towel (optional) 
  • 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. 
  • Sun cream (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
  • Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
  • Camera/binoculars 
  • Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
  • Smidge’ midge repellent – only necessary when sailing in Scotland
  • Sleep masks and/or earplugs! (optional)
  • Charging cables for personal devices 
  • A good book to read!
  • Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

Travel Documents

  •  Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.

From: North Pier

To: North Pier

Getting There

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.

Flying Dutchman

Guest berths: 24 Rig: Schooner

The Flying Dutchman has a vast 480m² sail area to propel her through the water. The experienced crew will take care of everything aboard; however, if guests wish, they are welcome to join the crew, hoisting the sails or taking the helm. She’s perfect for solo travellers and couples of all ages and abilities.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes it a great communal space to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area. Below decks, there are ten ensuite cabins for guests with bunk beds, all with heating and air-conditioning.

On the main deck, there are three different tables and couches to sit on; this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

Deck plan

The flying dutchman ship deck plan information

Berths on board

Single berth in shared Twin Cabin Ensuite: The Standard twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite.

Single berth in shared Twin Plus Ensuite Cabin: The Plus twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite. The Plus cabin is slightly larger than the Standard cabin, offering more floor space. Ideal for solo travellers sharing.

Twin Cabin Ensuite (solo occupancy): The Standard twin bunk cabin has two single berths, one above the other, and an ensuite. This is a private option for solo travellers who would like their own cabin.

More about Flying Dutchman

Are all meals included?

Breakfast & soft/hot drinks are included. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included).

Can you cater for dietary needs?

Strict vegan diets are not able to be catered for. Gluten (not celiac) or lactose free diets may be possible with pre-planning for the chef.

Are there any added extra's?

Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included) & eating ashore (not included). Any onshore excursion fees are not included. There is a £90pp per week cash payment onboard for guests, if they would like to serve themselves beer & wine, snacks, soft drinks, that are set out in the saloon for guests each day. This is optional and cash only. Guests then wash up anything from these snacks themselves. This is instead of an honesty bar.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

11x twin ensuite cabins

Is there a porthole in my cabin?

Yes, every cabin has a porthole.

How many toilet/showers does she have?

11

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, the Flying Dutchman does not have laundry on board.

Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

Yes.

Do I need to tip the crew?

Tips are not mandatory but very much appreciated.

What language is spoken onboard?

German/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, there are 220v sockets in every cabin so please bring a 2pin EU adaptor.

What is the currency on board?

Euros.

Are there life jackets provided?

Yes.

How do I get on and off the boat?

The Flying Dutchman 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 waterproofs provided?

No, please bring your own.

Do I need sailing experience?

No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

Does the boat have any water toys?

Flying Dutchman has some fishing rods that are available for guests to use.

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?

Over 18's only - no upper age limit, only one rule: You must be able to climb stairs. 16 years old with a mature guardian is sometimes possible.

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