Oosterschelde - Summer Expedition around Cape Wrath, Orkneys and Outer Hebrides

Voyage Number	Ost-1006
Voyage price	€990 euros for 8 days
Voyage Dates	04/07/2010 - 20:00 - 12/07/2010 - 08:00
Depart from	Aberdeen
Finishing Port	Oban
Voyage area	Hebrides , Orkney Islands, Scotland , Scotland
Voyage type	Adventure Voyage , Tall Ships , Wildlife Voyages
Vessel	Oosterschelde
Availability	Available
	BOOKING FORM >>>

Voyage Description

Around Cape Wrath & Exploring Orkneys & Outer Hebrides - Skye and Rhum

This 9 day adventure sailing voyage around the top of Scotland on sailing ship Oosterschelde will allow you to explore the Orkney Islands, sail through the infamous Pentland Firth, past Cape Wrath and into the Minches. As you head south for Oban there will be opportunities to anchor off the Outer Hebrides or perhaps the more remote North West coast of Skye. Although this is mid summer these stretches of water have strong tides and can be rough, so it is definately a voyage for adventurous sailors. However Oosterschelde is a proper ocean going sailing ship 164ft overall (40m) with good cabins and large communal living areas to relax in, so there is nothing to prevent a newcomer to sailing enjoying this voyage as long as they realise that even at anchor the ship may roll if there is any swell and there will be few quays to come alongside, so trips ashore will usually be by ships boat.

Orkney Islands

The islands to the North of Scotland are very different from the Western Isles. Not only is the geology different (Old Red Sandstone on Orkney) but the entire social structure and language is different. Settled since the stone ages, The North including Orkney remained a Norse dominion until comparitively recent times, whilst further west the culture was distinctly celtic. The language changed from Old Norse/ Icelandic to lowland scots and Gaelic is unheard of.

The gap between Orkney and Duncansby Head (John a Groats) is only 6 miles but the spring tides through the Pentland Firth can run at speeds faster than any other spot in coastal Britain. Look out for the "Merry Men of Mey" tidal race.

The Orkney mainland has been rich agricultural land for centuries and there are over 600 species of wild flowers including 21 orchids. The heather moorland is home to one of the finests moorland bird communities in Britain with hen harriers, shorteared owl, red grouse, merlin, arctic and great skua, golden plover, dunlin, snipe, curlew, reed bunting and many more. On the lochs and in the huge natural harbour of Scapa Flow there are red throated divers, wigeon, red brested meganser, and there are many RSPB reserves on the islands.

Scapa Flow is famous for what lies under the water and is a mecca for scuba divers from all over the world. At The end of the First World War the British scuttled the entire German battle fleet in the deep waters of Scapa Flow. The wrecks are well preserved and now a haven for sea life.

Islands within the archipelago include South Ronaldsway, Flotta, Hoy, Rousay, Shapinsay, Eday, Sanday, and Westray and many smaller islands with anchorages, so Oosterschelde has plenty to explore in the Orkney Archipelago alone. Eventually she will have to sail south to Oban, past some of the most spectacular highland scenery including the Cullin ridge of Skye.

Outer Hebrides & Skye

If you enjoy wilderness, wildlife and dramatic weather then this is a perfect summer adventure with long daylight hours so far north. The sparsely inhabited islands, tiny fishing villages, deep lochs and rugged cliffs that will be appealing to nature lovers looking for puffin, sea eagles, whales and other cetaceans.

The hundreds of islands of the Hebrides have their own character, are very isolated and therefore entirely self-reliant. This area is rich in seabirds, which usually breed on the steep cliff faces. With the ‘Oosterschelde’, a relatively small ship, we will visit unique places that cannot be reached by anything but boat or ship.

The waters surrounding the far North of Scotland are some of the richest fishing grounds in the world, so with a professional chef on board you should be able top enjoy fresh seafood and fish. During the crossings between the different islands the chances are high that we will spot whales and seals.

Outer Hebrides 

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).

Enjoy the novelty of a Dutch schooner with a multi national crew exploring distinctive celtic communities, who only have a handful of yachts visit them each year, and some uninhabited islands which are a haven for seabirds. 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.

There are over 26 islands in the Outer Hebrides south of the Sound of Harris, and at least another 16 islands around Lewis to the North.So even without the prize of St Kilda, there will be plenty of new anchorages to try. Take a zodiac ride under the sculptural arches of Mingulay, see where the TV castaways stayed on Taransay

On the Outer Hebrides we will may visit lesser known islands of Miughaiagh and Bearnaraigh, amongst others. The only human inhabitants here are the lighthouse keepers, but there are masses of Auks, Kittiwakes and Fulmars.

During the voyage we will sail as much as possible.

There will also be enough time to go on land to explore the coasts, culture and animal life. The walks we make are based on guests in average condition. When the walks are tougher, we will offer alternatives so that there is always something suitable for you.

Aberdeen to Oban via the Orkney Islands

Aberdeen
This famous historic port is today busy with the coming and going of supply ships and support boats for the North Sea oil industry.
The town itself has many cultural attractions and ample accommodation for any one wanting to stay at the beginning or end of a voyage.

Once at sea you will head north up the East Coast of Scotland heading for the Orkneys.

Orkney Islands

There will be time to go ashore in Stromness or Kirkwall and explore some of the Orkney Islands ancient buildings from the bronze age and earlier. Standing in the door way of a building over 4000 years old at looking at the sea view that has not changed in all that time is truly memorable.

The Orkney Islanders are great mariners and have a keen eye for a gracious ship, Oosterschelde will appeal to them greatly.

Scapa Flow and John O'Groats

Leaving the Orkneys you may pass through Scapa Flow where the German First World War Naval Fleet was scuttled and is a now a Mecca for divers.
Passing through the Pentalnd Firth you pass John O Groat’s the most northerly point on mainland Britain and aiming to round Cape Wrath.
Did you know that Cape Wrath is so named because the Vikings on heading back to Scandinavia got this far north and then turned right for home Wrath being a derivation of there word for right.

The Hebrides

Soon you will be entering the waters of the Minches and on one hand you will see the Outer Hebrides of Lewis, Harris, Uist North and South, Benbecula and Barra. In front of you may see the Isle of Skye where Ellen McArthur has built her home. On the port side you will see stretches of the Scottish mainland and the mountains of Terridon.

The is so much to choose from in this exciting area that your Captain will have a hard time deciding where to take Oosterschelde.

Nearing Oban there are yet more Islands with odd names and fascinating stories to tell, Eigg, Much, Canna, Rum and finally Mull.

The Mishnish at Tobermorray

If you get the chance always head into the Mishnish at Tobermorray on the Isle of Mull. Many a good evening has been spent in this fine pub.

Photos by Adam Purser to the right the Church on Canna and Tobermorray below.

From day-to-day

( c) Ian Watt

Aberdeen

The exact location of Oosterschelde will be given in time for your voyage.

Aberdeen is a large historic port nowadays much used for the North Sea Oil support and supply vessels. It is famous for its large granite buildings. It is a busy city with plenty of accommodation arts and culture.

The main tourist office is Aberdeen City and Shire.

Getting to Aberdeen

By Road
From Edinburgh take the M90 over the Firth of Fourth and keep going until nearly in Perth and then turn north east onto the A90 for Dundee and Aberdeen. As you approach Aberdeen take the A956 for the town centre and Harbour.

By Coach
There are coaches to Aberdeen from Glasgow Airport and Buchanan Station and from Edinburgh CityLink

By Rail
Aberdeen main station Guild Street is right by the Harbour. ScotRail

By Plane
Being a big oil town Aberdeen is served by many flights from the UK and a few from Europe. More flights to Edinburgh and Glasgow from Europe and then simple train or coach to Aberdeen. See FlightMapping
 

Photo cuortesy Fr Paul Hackett

Oban
 

Oban has been described as one of the most scenic travel destinations. The sheltered port of Oban (“little bay” in Gaelic) is surrounded by views of earth, sea and sky, which have enthralled artists, authors, composers, and poets for centuries.

Known as the gateway to Argyll and the Western Isles, Oban is the perfect origin for your own journey to discover the enchantment of the west coast of Scotland.

Oban has always been known as the traveller’s rest. As a small town with a resident population of 8,500 this unofficial capital of the West Highlands often swells with large numbers of visitors.

Oban is renowned for its glorious gardens, its fabulous views, the ocean promenade, islands all around, ancient monuments and castles, and outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, fishing, bird-watching – even whale spotting - especially from pilot cutters and tall ships.

Queen Victoria visited the town and gave it the royal seal of approval when she described it as "one of the finest spots we have seen".
 

Getting to Oban

By Road
Head up the A82 from Glasgow and keep going all the way past Loch Lomond and its steam ships. When you get to Tyndrum turn to port (left) onto the A85 for Oban. Find the North Quay and then further into Town and near Tesco you will find secure paid for parking at Oban Car Hire which does have to be paid for.

By Coach
CityLink offer connections from Glasgow Buchanan Street train and Bus Station and Glasgow Airport.

By Train
ScotRail has trains for Oban that also leave from Buchanan Street Station.

By Plane
You can fly from Central Glasgow to Oban on Loch Lomond Seaplanes - probably the most dramatic way to arrive - certainly the quickest from Glasgow.
 

Accommodation
There are lots of places to stay in Oban, The Official Oban Tourist Office has the best local directory.
 

Three masted topsail schooner Oosterschelde

Oosterschelde has sailed as far as the Arctic and Antarctica and sailed around the world She is very well known in Holland and a favourite of sea and nature lovers. The ship is owned by a Dutch Foundation but the working language on board is English. For more on this historic 1918 sailing ship and her favourite destinations see the text below

Cape Verde for trade winds & tropical sun this winter

For some great photos and a full description of these voyages

PDF Cape Verde Sailing Expeditions Brochure 2011-12

PDF - a photo diary of our Christmas voyage in Cape Verde

Individual Cape Verde Voyage details & availability Winter 2011-12

Oosterschelde Winter Programme 2011 - 2012

Prices are fixed in Euros. Ring us on 01872 580022 for a quote in £sterling

Life on Oosterschelde

On board Oosterschelde—as on all of Classic Sailing holidays—you are not a passenger but part of the guest crew. You will be assigned a watch together with the professional crew to sail, steer and navigate the ship. No sailing experience is necessary. The crew will be happy to explain the functions of all the ropes.

Oosterschelde is very well known in Holland and a favourite of sea and nature lovers. Her ethos is one of active and direct exposure to the sea and sailing, the region being explored and its wildlife. Below decks the two and four cabins are fitted with a washbasin with hot and cold water. Showers are separate. The lounge is very stylish with a wood burning stove (for Spitzbergen trips etc) a piano and library. All cabins have forced ventilation and a window or hatch to open. The ever present trade winds keep it a pleasant temperature below decks. She has a large galley and professional cook and you can buy drinks at the bar. On board euros are accepted but not credit cards.

On a fore and aft rigged schooner there is more sail trimming, tacking and gybing than you might find on a square rigger, so at times on watch you may be very busy. With two square sails there is still an excuse (if you need it) to go aloft.

Expedition Ship

Oosterschelde is well used to running sailing expeditions to remote places like Spitzbergen, Antarctica, Indonesia with well educated guests interested in nature, walking, maritime history and local culture ashore. Whilst the ship does do social projects / sail training, for most the year the hospitality and style of sailing is geared towards adults on an adventure holiday. The landing places will be carefully selected to show you the best of each island and there will be some organised expeditions ashore.

Photo, Our local guide Ario in Sao Antao, Cape Verde 2011

Equipment & Safety

The crew are experienced ocean going sailors and most of them are employed on Oosterschelde full time. The ship is owned and operated by Oosterschelde Shipping Company and Sailing Foundation. She is equipped to sail the world’s seas and holds all the safety certificates required by Dutch Law. As you are part of the guest crew you will be fully trained in emergency procedures. For going ashore Oostershelde has two rubber dinghies with outboards and a wooden boat. She carries lifejackets, liferafts, fire detection and extinguishing systems, very extensive medicine cabinent, EPIRB, SART, radar, GPS, SSB radio, INMARSAT Sat C fax terminal etc. If your family/friends need to contact the ship in emergencies the ship can be contacted by Iridium saterlite telephone, but cheaper to go through the ships office in Rotterdam ( Michelle or Gerben) as they are in contact with the ship regularly. 

Ship Specification:

Gilbert Pépin Location: Vernon, France 29.5.2009

I  want to thank the crew for the three magnificent days passed on board, between "Golfe du Morbihan" and "Le Havre". I sailed on numerous occasions on about ten different ships, and this sailing on Oosterschelde is the best experience I ever had. I was impressed by the good performances of the ship, and by the way the crew adjusts sails permanently so that the ship always gives the best ; it was an immense pleasure to participate of my best in all these operations. I regret that our different languages did not allow us to communicate more, because all the crew members were really very nice and very thoughtful with us. I have now only an envy: to embark again on Oosterschelde, to be on the deck to participate in the laborers of sails, to climb on the mast to help the crew, and to share again these excellent moments given by sailing on Oosterschelde !!!
(Excuse my bad English, which is the one from a French...)
Thanks again
Gilbert