Outer Hebrides and Western Isles
photo: Isle of Lewis
Explore the best of the Outer Hebrides
Visit the rugged Western Isles, exploring the best secluded anchorages, experiencing spectacular scenery in some of the most unspoilt sailing grounds in Europe. Abundant bird and marine life and breathtaking landscapes provide a memorable voyage.
Mallaig is known as the gateway to the Western Isles, with endless fantastic locations to explore and reach even within a short trip.
Eda Frandsen will sail from Mallaig this summer with fantastic sailing adventures to the Outer Hebrides, Small Isles and potentially out to St Kilda if weather and conditions allow. Larger wooden sailing ships Bessie Ellen and Leader will be based further south in Oban, offering a few 6 day voyages which may include the Outer Hebrides.
Eda Frandsen - Danish Cutter - Scotland Sailing Schedules with voyages from Mallaig
Leader Scotland Sailing Schedule from Oban - dates & prices
Bessie Ellen Scotland Sailing Schedule from Oban - dates & prices
Sailing & Wildlife Voyages - We call them expeditions
These sailing voyages lead to sparsely inhabited islands, tiny fishing villages, deep lochs and rugged cliffs that will be appealing to nature lovers looking for puffin, sea and white tailed eagles, whales and other cetaceans.
The hundreds of islands of the Hebrides have their own character, are very isolated and therefore communities are entirely self-reliant. This area is rich in seabirds, which usually breed on the steep cliff faces. You will visit unique places that cannot be reached by anything but boat or ship.
The waters surrounding the Hebrides and St Kilda are rich in plankton and fish. During the crossings between the different islands the chances are high that you will spot whales and seals.
Sailing Breaks to the Outer Hebrides
Thirty miles off the North West coast of Scotland lie the Outer Hebrides, an idyllic chain of over 40 islands that offers spectacular coastline, stunning mountain scenery, abundant wildlife and a rich and vibrant culture. Each holds its own individual charm and rich history. The Atlantic facing coast is home to some of the finest white sandy beaches while the east coast is deeply indented with a maze of impressive lochs and anchorages.
Visit the mountainous landscape of Harris or North Uist famous for its stunning beaches and rich birdlife. South Uist offers impressive lochs, dispersed crofts and endless beaches.
"Sailing in the Western Isles of Scotland is one of the best ways of exploring these remote islands. You do not have to worry about accommodation, it’s close to nature but cosier than camping!"
Read more about Scotland as a sailing destination
The warm waters of the Gulf Stream mean that we regularly see dolphins, seals, whales and basking sharks in the waters around the Western Isles. The area is rich in seabirds including gannets, shearwaters, puffins, fulmars, guillemots, razorbills, sea eagles, gulls and terns. On land keep an eye for soaring Gold and white tailed eagles around the cliffs, deer and otters.
The Hebrides derive their name from the Norse (Viking) word Havbrodoy meaning on the edge of the sea, but they were inhabited long before the Norse Era. Pliny called them Hebudes, and Ptolemy in the 2nd century wrote of the Eboudai islands above Ivernia (Ireland).
Like the Great Barrier Reef, the chain of Outer Hebridean islands runs parallel to the Scottish mainland and protects it from ocean storms. The Atlantic facing coast is an almost continuous strand of sand dunes and machair (grass) whilst the east coast is deeply indented with a maze of islets and anchorages.
Orkney Islands Archipelago - Viking Culture
In 2013 Annabel J will visit the Orkneys on Leg 4 of her Round Britain Challenge which gives the exciting prospect of exploring the northernmost islands of the Outer Hebrides and the Orkney Islands - a British archipelago that has more links with Viking culture than the Scottish mainland.
Pick your Voyage
Customer Comments
Yes the adventure is now completed for both Janet & myself. According to Janet the sailing from Ascension to Ber...
" A journey I will remember for the rest of my life - most enjoyable was sailing to St Kilda and landing there; isla...
"Thanks so much for a wonderful week on Eve. She’s a beautiful boat and sailing on her was, for me, a perfect way to...
Follow us on Facebook
Photos
Site search
RSS Feeds
Classic Sailing
Parton Vrane, Portscatho, Cornwall, TR2 5ET
Tel 0044 (0) 1872 580022
skippers@classic-sailing.co.uk