Wildlife Adventures of the Inner Hebrides

Our adventures begin in the delightful town of Oban, the gateway to the Hebridean Isles. We meet at Dunstaffnage Marina, where we’ll board our ship, settle into our cabins and have a short introduction to life on board. Then, we set sail for our first destination, historic Loch Linnhe. We’ll pass the picturesque shores of Lismore Island en route to Shuna Island, where we’ll anchor in a sheltered spot. You have the opportunity to go ashore to visit a magical local nature reserve, marvel at photogenic Castle Stalker or stroll along the causeway to Port Appin. 

After exploring Loch Linnhe, we sail through the narrow entrance to Loch Spelve on the southeast coast of the Isle of Mull, the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides. This tranquil spot is surrounded by ancient oak forest, with rocky islets dotted around. There’s virtually no human habitation here, but keep your eyes peeled – this is a fantastic area for wildlife and you may spot an otter along the loch shore. It’s also renowned for its mussel cultivation, and we’ll have the opportunity to pick up some of these locally grown delicacies to savour. 

Today we stop at two locations on the beautiful Isle of Mull. First to Duart Bay, presided over by the imposing Duart Castle, ancestral home of Clan Maclean. You can visit this 13th century castle to learn about its rich clan history and admire the superb views from the keep, or wander along the shore, watching for wildlife. We continue to Tobermory, one of Mull’s most picturesque towns, famed for its whisky distillery and colourful waterfront. We’ll anchor in the bay, for the evening.

This morning you are free to explore Tobermory. Wander the pretty harbour to admire the wooden fishing boats and brightly painted houses, visit the wonderful local museum, or book a bird-watching excursion or guided walk to explore the area and its magnificent wildlife. Later we set sail across the Sound of Mull to the peaceful sea loch, Loch Sunart, where you may see golden and white tailed eagles soaring overhead. We’re heading for Oronsay, an uninhabited, rocky island near the western mouth of the loch. After squeezing through dramatic high-sided cliffs, we’ll reach the sheltered anchorage of Loch Drumbuie. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sea kayaking or swimming in this scenic spot while watching for the myriad wildlife that dwell here, before settling down for a peaceful night. 

Our final full day together takes us to Loch Aline, a fjord-like inlet whose name translates as ‘beautiful loch’. This remote, tranquil spot is midway along the Sound of Mull and offers perfect anchorage for a relaxing day exploring the area. Wander through ancient forest paths to the sound of birdsong, or visit Ardtornish Estate to explore the verdant gardens and see the remains of the tumbledown castle. You may opt to visit the Nc’nean Whisky Distillery on the Morvern Peninsula for a tour and tasting. 

Today our wildlife voyage draws to a close.  We return to Dunstaffnage Marina in Oban where you’ll bid farewell to your captain, crew and fellow guests before disembarking and starting your homeward journey.