New Flying Dutchman Sailing towards Oban, Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman anchored off Ardberg whisky distillery, on Islay, Inner Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman guests toasting Scottish whisky Hebrides, Scotland
Aerial view of the island of Iona, Inner Hebrides, Scotland
Flying Dutchman under sail
Walking the three distilleries whisky trail between Ardberg and Port Ellen on the isle of Islay, Inner Hebrides, Scotland
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Tall Ship Sailing, Whisky Distilleries & Folk Music in Scotland

Embark: North Pier, Oban11 October 2026, 18:00
Disembark: North Pier16 October 2026, 10:00
Vessel: Flying Dutchman
Where: Oban, Scotland
Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
Group Size: 22
Activity: Level 1
i
Feefo logo
Berths available
Prices from
£1,010.00€1,145.00
per person
Board type: Half Board
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Enjoy traditional sailing, whisky distilleries and Celtic folk music aboard the Flying Dutchman as she explores Mull, Islay and Colonsay.

Join tall ship the Flying Dutchman in the Scottish harbour town of Oban on the West Coast of Scotland for a tall ship sailing, whisky and folk music extravaganza.

This adventure sailing holiday in the inner Hebrides will focus on sailing and exploring the islands of Mull, Jura, Islay and Colonsay with breath-taking landscapes, historical castles, abbey ruins and of course, a plethora of wildlife waiting to be discovered.

  • Fully crewed tall ship
  • Traditional sailing
  • Private ensuite cabins
  • Whisky distilleries
  • Folk music
  • Half-board
  • Hands-on Sailing
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

Hebrides, Scotland

Take in the rugged beauty of the Scottish mountains, the tranquility of the water, the indescribable views, with its secluded bays and quiet fishing villages. This voyage is the perfect mix of whisky distillery tours, folk music and rugged landscape scenery. Visit the Southern Hebridean islands of Mull, Islay, Jura and Colonsay.

Folk musicians, father and son duo will join the Flying Dutchman for this special voyage.  Joost Van Es grew up in an artistic environment, playing violin from childhood, initially taught by his mother, later educated at the conservatory. For a long time he has been part of various bands, ensembles and productions, with which he plays in various countries. In 2008 he was official finalist at the Nashville Fiddle Championships in Nashville, Tennessee (more than 100 participants from around the world).

Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6pm 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 into Oban earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.) The route will be entirely dependant on the wind direction so there is no fixed itinerary.

Also known as the Pearl of the West Highlands, Oban is a great place to begin your whisky and folk music sailing adventure. Set sail to the island of Mull with the rugged mountain backdrop between Morvern and Mull behind us. Pass the magnificently restored Duart Castle before reaching our stop for the night in the fishing village of Tobermory.

Set sails for the uninhabited neighbouring island of Staffa, 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.

The island of Colonsay has a varied landscape with some beautiful sandy beaches. The highest elevation is Carnan Eoin, 143 meters above sea level. A variety of destroyed ruins and fortresses lie scattered across the island perfect for some exploration before we visit the smallest island brewery in the world.

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 before harbouring in Port Ellen for the night before our final visit to Lagavullin.

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.

THIS TRIP IS COVERED BY The Flying Dutchman’s PACKAGE TRAVEL REGULATIONS. MINIMUM PASSENGER = 10
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 not more than 12miles 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, Oban

To: North Pier

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.

BY COACH/BUS

Bus routes 55 and 150 link Kyle of Lochalsh to Glasnakille. The 915 line runs from Glasgow Airport to Kyle of Lochalsh and takes around 5 and a half hours.

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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