Have you ever explored the magnificent coast of Scotland on a luxury yacht? Click here for a dreamy eight-day sailing itinerary for cruising along the Scottish coast.
Are you ready for a week filled with sailing, exploring and if you are a whiskey lover, some fine whiskey tasting along the way? Scotland has an impressive 18,743 km of coastline to explore, but if you have already had a sail along the Scottish coast and ticked off some of the classic bucket list sights, you might be yearning for something more off-the-beaten-track.
The West Coast of Scotland is set to impress with an unforgettable yachting holiday that will see you navigating around some incredible villages, white sandy beaches, historic whiskey distilleries, seafood spots and attractions. Read on to find out where you should visit in our sample itinerary.
Sail Along the Scottish Coast: Sample 8-day Itinerary
One of the best experiences you are likely to have in Scotland is to explore the whiskey route by yacht. We have crafted an eight-day itinerary that you can easily stretch out to two weeks if you have the time or if you become as enchanted as previous visitors.
Oban
Known as the Gateway to the Isles, Oban is the largest town in Argyll and the Isles and an easy starting point when planning a cruise around Scotland’s west coast. You can stretch your sea legs or work up an appetite at one of Oban’s many attractions, including:
– The coliseum lookalike of McCaig’s Tower
– Oban Distillery, one of the oldest in Scotland
– Dunollie Museum and its ruins dating back to the 1400s
Once you are done exploring, sail west to Lochaline Harbour, where you will find excellent facilities, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to eat at one of Scotland’s best dining spots – The Whitehouse Restaurant.
Glenmore Bay and Loch Sunart
Adventures in Ardnamurchan await once you cruise 33 nautical miles northwest to Glenmore Bay, the entrance to Loch Sunart. Make sure you allow enough time to take in the spectacular landscapes of the Sound of Mull on the way. This remote and unspoiled section of your sailing trip features towering forests, hauntingly beautiful moors, and white sand beaches ready for exploring.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you have a high chance of spotting dolphins, whales, otters, and sea eagles along with pine martens and wildcats onshore. Whiskey lovers should make a beeline for Ardnamurchan Distillery, known as Scotland’s greenest distillery. Salen Jetty is located in a beautiful, secluded spot that is ideal for your overnight stop.
The Small Isles
Sail another 33 nautical miles northwest to the Isle of Rum, the largest of Scotland’s Small Isles. You will find towering peaks and a wide array of wildlife, including eagles, red deer and otters.
If you are keen on a historical experience, check out Kinloch Castle. This iconic 19th-century mansion played a pivotal role in the island’s history, and its eccentric museum is well worth a visit.
If the weather is in your favour, the Isle of Rum is a paradise for hill walkers. You can find short walks like the Northside Nature Trail, which will take about an hour and longer walks that will see you crisscrossing the island’s diverse terrain.
Once you have had your fill, head for tiny Canna for tonight’s berthing. Canna’s basalt cliffs are a haven for puffins and other seabirds. Row ashore for an evening wander and head to the island’s lovely cafe for a meal with the locals.
Isle of Skye
Take your sail along the Scottish Coast a further 17 nautical miles northeast, where you will find the picturesque Isle of Skye. It is home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, from quaint fishing villages to medieval castles. There is also a lot to see here, so you will want to plan carefully or allow an extra day or two to really take it all in.
Some of the highlights to include in your vacation plans are:
A sip or two at the Talisker Distillery, Skye’s only single malt whisky producer
A swim in the Fairy Pools
A walk up to the Old Man of Storr, one of Skye’s most photographed landscapes
A meal at the award-winning Three Chimneys
A visit to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland
Rugged Loch Scavaig or the better equipped Loch Harport are two convenient locations for berthing.
South and North Uist
Sail around 33 nautical miles west to some of the most beautiful shores found in Scotland. Over the next two days, you will get to explore first South and then North Uist and all the islands’ beautiful bays, lochans, and attractions. Make sure to include these in your travel plans:
– The eerie burial cairn of Barpa Langais
– The ancient standing stones of The False Men
– Seal spotting at Balranald Bay
– Sunbaking at Traigh Lingeigh beach
– Berthing at Wizard Pool is an absolute must on South Uist and Lochmaddy is a convenient anchorage on North Uist.
Harris and Lewis
Sail 10 nautical miles north to meet your last port of call, Harris and Lewis, the largest of the Hebridean islands. Here you will find a unique Gaelic culture and a fascinating history that rounds out your luxury sailing adventure so far.
Make sure to take in the ancient thatched blackhouses at Gearrannan, the echoing stone walls of St Clement’s church, and the mysterious standing stones at Calanais. Nature lovers will find plenty of outdoor activities, and foodies may be tempted to add an extra couple of days to test out the superb food options on offer. If there is room for more whisky tasting, the Isle of Harris Distillery will happily oblige.
Start Planning Your Yacht Charter Adventure
Rugged landscapes, charming villages, and unique island distilleries all come together to make this sail along the Scottish coast one to remember. On a yacht charter, you won’t have to sacrifice luxury while getting to explore some of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations that Scotland’s known for. Your captain will further assist with fine tuning the itinerary to your specific wishes and interests and that is suitable for the yacht you choose.
Contact us at Yacht Story for more information on how we can help you make your next sailing trip a special on
