Ullapool–Oban: Wildlife Tour with Guide

As a sailing ship, we are largely dependent on the weather. The program below is a guideline and can be adjusted under the influence of weather, current and especially the wind. This may mean that we skip ports or call at ports other than those described below. Flexibility is key to enjoying time on the water, especially on this trip!

We pass through nutrient rich waters recognised as some of the most important for large marine life in the world. There is a chance of a glimpse of the mysterious marine life beneath the waves, if conditions and luck being in the right place at the right time allow. There is no guarantee of what will be seen, but many sharp eyes on the water open up a realm of possibility for a once in a lifetime wildlife experience.

Day 1: arrival Ullapool

Ullapool is a relatively young town, founded in the late 18th century during the peak of herring fishing. The rugged landscape around Ullapool is known for its nature, wildlife and many bird species. After you have settled in your cabin, you will meet the crew and the other guests during a delicious welcome dinner.

Day 2: Stornoway via Tiumpan Head

Today we depart in time for Tiumpan Head, the northern tip of the Eye Peninsula on Lewis. Tiumpan Head is one of the best places in the UK for Wildlife watching and is known as one of the main hotspots for Risso Dolphins. Minke whales, and other migratory offshore species come to this area to feed. At the end of the day we set course for Stornoway where we spend the night.

Day 3: Shiants

Today we leave Stornoway early and set sail for the Shiants, an isolated group of islands south of Stornoway. The Shiants consist of 3 islands; Garbh Eilean (Rough Island), Eilean an Taighe (Island with House) and Eilean Mhuire (Island of Virgin Mary). The name of the Shiants themselves can be traced back to Sacred or Enchanted Isles. The area around the Shiants is a productive area for whales and several dolphin species. The Shiants themselves are one of the most important breeding grounds for seabirds in Europe, including 65,000 puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and the rare Arctic shearwater. The island is geologically very interesting. There are 110 meter high basalt cliffs and several rock arches and caves on the islands. A book has been written about the history and life on the Shiants: Searoom.
In calm weather we can spend the night at anchor between the islands.

Day 4: Canna via Neist Point

We depart from our anchorage on the Shiants towards Canna, one of the four Small Isles south of Skye. On the way we pass Neist Point, the most westerly point of Skye. Here we enter the Sea of the Hebrides. In 2020 the Sea of the Hebrides was designated as a Marine Protected Area, among the first in the world to provide area-based protection for minke whale and basking shark. The tidal currents around Neist Point make this an interesting area for marine life. In settled weather there is a possibility of seeing Minke whales in this area.

Day 5: Tiree

In the morning we set sail for Tiree, an island with beautiful sandy beaches and remarkably flat compared to the surrounding islands. On the way we pass Hawes Bank. A plateau where the seabed rises from a depth of 150m to 25m. Here, nutrient-rich water from the depths comes to the surface, making this area productive and diverse in marine life. Tiree is on average the sunniest place in the UK!

Day 6: Tobermory

We set course for Tobermory, picturesque Tobermory is the largest town on the Isle of Mull. It is a charming little town with brightly coloured houses and a range of small businesses including a chocolate shop, bakery, candle maker, silversmith, art gallery and a pottery. Tobermory is also known for its arts centres, a small theatre company and some good pubs and eateries. And of course you can visit the famous Tobermory whiskey distillery on our trip. There are a number of beautiful walks to be made around the natural bay.
At the north end of the entrance to the Sound of Mull is the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse,  another productive headland where dolphins or whales may be seen. The more sheltered waters of the sound of Mull may reveal a glimpse of a porpoise fin breaking the surface for a breath.

Day 7 & 8: Oban

In the morning we say goodbye to Tobermory and sail south through the Sound of Mull towards Oban. Along the way we can enjoy the landscape and with a sharp eye perhaps sight some of the many porpoises that call  the fish-rich waters their home here. At the end of the afternoon we arrive in Oban where we enjoy a delicious last meal on board. The Nesmorning, after an extensive breakfast, it is unfortunately time to say goodbye to the ship, the crew and the other guests.

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The Flying Dutchman