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.
“Thank you for a brilliant holiday. I loved every bit about it. Food was fantastic. I’ll be back.” Brigitte Jones
Kyles and the Isles | April 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
“Fabulous trip, good to be aboard Splendour.” Paul and Elaine Taylor
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023
“A fabulous trip and something we will long-remember . . . Would highly recommend this trip for adventurous people of all ages.”
Private charter | July 2023
“Lovely trip with perfect weather and great company. Thanks to Ted and Iggy.” Gail and Paul
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2022