Sorry we’re full!
This voyage is fully crewed. Check out our voyage finder to see what else we have available.
Discover the famous Scottish distilleries of Mull, Jura and Islay as you enjoy a whisky sailing tour in the Hebrides.
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 visiting the famous whisky distilleries of Mull, Jura, and Islay amidst breathtaking landscapes, historical castles, and abbey ruins. Of course, there will also be a plethora of wildlife waiting to be discovered.
- Fully crewed tall ship
- Traditional sailing
- Private ensuite cabins
- Whisky distilleries
- Half-board
- Package Travel Cover
- Hands-on Sailing
Need some help?
Talk to the team
Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592
YOUR SAILING AREA
Scotland, UK
With hundreds of islands to discover and some of the best sailing grounds in the UK, the West coast of Scotland not only boasts one of the best locations for a sailing holiday, but it is also home to some of the most famous whisky distilleries in the world. Spend a week exploring the very best of Scottish hospitality mixed with some hearty traditional tall-ship sailing. Discover secluded bays, picturesque anchorages and plenty of time to explore ashore.
Whisky Distillery Hopping
Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6 pm and after an introduction to the crew, dinner will be served at 7pm 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.)
Also known as the Pearl of the West Highlands, Oban is a great place to begin your whisky sailing adventure. On our first full day, we will set sail to Mull, with the rugged mountain backdrop between Morvern and Mull behind us. We will pass the magnificently restored Duart Castle before reaching our stop for the night in the fishing village of Tobermory.
After a tour of Tobermory whisky distillery, we will set sails for the beautiful island of Iona located just on the Southwestern tip of Mull. Crystal clear, azure blue waters await and the landscape captures the imagination of the thousands who travelled here before us; monks, pilgrims, chieftains and Viking kings. The uninhabited neighbouring island of Staffa is famous for the basalt rock formation of Fingals cave and as long as the swell permits, we can take the tender to explore this fascinating natural wonder.
Our whisky expedition continues as we sail further South to the island of Islay. Home to an impressive nine whisky distilleries, Islay produces millions of litres and each distillery has its own boat bridge so the Flying Dutchman can dock directly. Our first visit will be to the beautiful old distillery Bunnahabhain. After this, we can visit the Caol Ila Distillery before we moor for the night in Port Askaig.
Today we set the sails a little further South down the coast of Islay to visit Ardbeg , Lagavullin and Laphroig. The distilleries are so close to each other that we can walk between them. Once we have finsihed our tour, we will harbour in Port Ellen for the night before our final distillery visit to Bowmore.
After that we set sail to Jura which is a paradise of untouched nature and natural beauty. The name Jura comes from the Norwegian and it means “Deer Island” and this still applies today with an estimated 5,500 deer and only around 180 inhabitants. As long as the weather permits, visit the remote Isle of Jura Distillery, take a tour and enjoy a few drams before setting the sails for our final sail back to Oban.
*Please note that any whisky distillery entrance/tour fees are not included in the ticket price and are at guest expense.
THIS TRIP IS COVERED BY The Flying Dutchman’s PACKAGE TRAVEL REGULATIONS. MINIMUM PASSENGER = 10
Things to note
Sailing vs Shoretime
Nightwatches?
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.
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 allow guests 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 cannot 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
- Whisky distillery entries
- 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
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.
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

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 DutchmanAre 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.
More holidays in Scotland
Scottish Island Hopping & Tall Ship Sailing in the Hebrides
Sailing through the Inner Hebrides of Scotland
Guided Sailing & Walking Holiday in Skye and the Small Isles
Scottish Short Break Sailing the Firth of Clyde
More holidays on Flying Dutchman
Offshore Sailing from Inverness to Amsterdam
Tall Ship Sailing, Whisky Distilleries & Folk Music in Scotland
Exploring the Caledonian Canal from Oban to Inverness
Inspiration for your voyage
Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below. Be inspired to discover the world under sail! Read our latest journals below.
JOURNAL














































