In just one month Splendour will be sailing into the beautiful Oban harbour for the middle part of our season. We love our home here in Dunoon but it’s always fun when we head up to Oban and summer officially begins. We can’t wait to spot whales out of the wheelhouse window and count the castles dotted along the coastline.
The port of Oban is a bustling town, full of shops, good food and ferries. Whilst Dunoon is fondly known as the gateway to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Oban is often referred to as the gateway to the isles. It is the perfect place to plan an adventure to the nearby Islands of Kerrera and Mull, or take the ferry further afield to Colonsay, Coll or Tiree. Or of course you could join one of our cruises and experience an array of different islands and stopovers.
If you have some time before or after joining us, Oban is also awash with music and celebrations of Scottish culture. The town’s venues include the Rockfield Centre and the Corran Halls. You can check out Oban’s website to find a few extra events to make your stay even more memorable.
And there are lots of great cafes and restaurants to visit, but our favourite snack spot has to be the Pokey Hat, for delicious homemade ice cream.
Here are some of the most exciting events we are looking forward to this summer.
A recent addition to the Oban annual event calendar is the Sea Shanty festival. The celebration of ships songs and celtic music is not to be missed between 21 and 24 June.
Sailors will be excited to hear that the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race docks in Oban in July for the first time ever.
Highland dancing, pipe bands and the traditional field games will all feature at the Oban Highland Games. They will be held on Thursday 22 August.
“Everything was as splendid as the ship’s name.” Geoff and Sue Crowley
Kyles and the Isles | 2022
“Words fail. Our hearts are full and our souls are refreshed. The trip was amazing.” Bud and Gayle Harris
Private charter | May 2023
“What a wonderful adventure. Thank you Ted and Thomas.” Michael and Ginger Barr
Private Charter | May 2023
“A wonderful week cruising around the Clyde, Arran and Ailsa Craig. Superb company and excellent food. Thank you Ted and Iggy.” John
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2022
“Everything we’d hoped for and more. We so enjoyed the walks, food, company, scenery and laughter.” Denise and Allan
Inlets and Islands of Wild Argyll | May 2022