Cruise Scotland: Kyles and the Isles Cruise

Cruise Scotland: Kyles and the Isles Cruise – This sheltered water cruise is ideal as the perfect escape for those who need a well-deserved holiday, and as a taster for those who want to try out their sea legs on a short break cruise. The Kyles and the Isles cruise takes in tranquil anchorages with optional onshore visits to local communities and heritage attractions and the opportunity for walks on shore.

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Cruise Summary

The Kyles of Bute – A haven of tranquillity with secluded bays and islands

Rothesay – Highlights include a Norman castle, fabulous Mount Stuart House and gardens and Zavaroni’s ice cream.

Millport – Visit the Cathedral of the Isles, cycle the 10 ½ miles around the island and visit the grey seal colony.

Lochranza on Arran – Famous for its distillery tours, golden eagles and red deer.

Tarbert on Loch Fyne – This charming fishing village overlooked by the ruin of Bruce’s castle has an excellent selection of art galleries and craft shops.

Loch Striven – A steep-sided fjord, which provides a tranquil overnight anchorage for listening to silence and stargazing.

Tighnabruaich – A coastal stroll on the Caladh walk, which is part of the Cowal Way, takes you to this picturesque loch-side village.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1 – Board Splendour in the Holy Loch Marina at 1600. After a welcoming glass of bubbly and the skipper’s safety briefing, we head off for the Kyles of Bute, world famous for tranquillity and scenic beauty. The anchor is dropped and it is time for a pre-dinner drink and some nibbles. At 1930 dinner is served and consists of local meat or fish with a selection of fresh vegetables and potatoes beautifully prepared by the onboard chef. This is followed by pudding, cheeses, coffee and chocolates. At 2230 the generator is shut down and it is time for a wonderfully sound sleep accompanied by the sound of the sea gently lapping on Splendours wooden hull.

Day 2 – At 0730 the generator is started and the kettles put on for an early cup of tea or coffee. At 0830 a hearty breakfast is served consisting of juice, cereal/porridge, toast and today’s cooked breakfast. At 0930ish we up anchor and head for Rothesay and a visit to fabulous Mount Stuart House and gardens. On returning to the boat lunch is served, this is normally soup and sandwiches or a salad followed by tea of coffee. After lunch, we head off up the Kyles to Loch Riddon to anchor for the night. Here you can try your hand at fishing or help the skipper set the lobster pots while the chef is preparing another delicious dinner.

Day 3 – After breakfast, its off ashore by tender for the Cladah walk from Upper Caladh to Tighnabruaich via ancient oak woods, always on the alert for red squirrels and roe deer. look out for seals and heron as you appreciate the wonderful views across the water to Bute, Inchmarnock and Arran. On arriving at Tighnabruaich take time to take in the art gallery and lifeboat shop. Iain will be waiting at the lifeboat slip to take you back to the boat for lunch and onwards to Loch Ranza on Arran for a visit to the Arran Distillery and hopefully a sighting of the golden eagles and red deer. After your shore trip its time to head back to the shelter of the Kyles for the last night aboard.

Day 4 – During breakfast we up anchor and head for the Holy Loch. At 1100, all too soon, its time for farewells.

Pricing and Availability

From £835 p/p (Complete with ensuite cabin) / From £6010 Private Charter

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Argyll Cruising offers 9 unique Scottish Cruises, visiting the inlets and islands of Argyll, Arran and the Outer Hebrides. 

Cruise around Scotland in style with Argyll Cruising.