An ideal Scottish cruise for those looking to explore the islands of the area and a diverse habitat teaming with wildlife. During the trip guests will get the opportunity to sail through the Sound of Seil to the Slate Islands, marvel at the wonder that is the Corryvreckan Whirlpool and call in at the islands of Mull, Islay and Jura, spotting wildlife along the way under Skipper Ted’s expert guidance. A perfect opportunity to search for porpoises, dolphins, seals, minke whales and even Orca, as well as a plethora of local birdlife. One not to be missed!
Islands and Wildlife of the Southern Hebrides
6
Night Cruise
from 2575 p/p
Ensuite Cabin
from 18530
Private Charter
Cruise Summary
Sound of Seil
The water passage lying between the island of Seil and the Scottish mainland.
The Slate Islands
An island group in the Inner Hebrides. The main islands are Seil, Easdale, Luing, Shuna, Torsa and Belnahua.
Corryvreckan
The Gulf of Corryvreckan, also called the Strait of Corryvreckan, is a narrow strait between the islands of Jura and Scarba, in Argyll and Bute, off the west coast of mainland Scotland.
Jura
An island in the Inner Hebrides. One of the least densely populated islands in Scotland and with a plethora of wildlife to see.
Gigha
An island off the west coast of Kintyre. It is abundant with sandy beaches and clear turquoise seas, stunning views and amazing sunsets.
Islay
The southernmost of the Inner Southern Hebrides. Known for its whisky.
Tarbert
An idyllic Scottish village known as the gateway to the beautiful peninsula of Kintyre.
The Garvellachs
A chain of four small islands lying north of the island of Jura at the entrance to the Firth of Lorna.
Loch Sunart
The longest sea loch in the Highland government area. An ideal spot for swimming and kayaking.
Cruise Gallery
Cruise Itinerary
Day 1
Join Splendour for the Islands and Wildlife of the Southern Hebrides cruise at 15:00 hrs at the North Pier, Oban, ready to be welcomed aboard with a glass of bubbles. After the skipper has done a safety briefing for all on board, Splendour will set sail for the Sound of Seil and around the Slate Islands, taking in the spectacular scenery, and perhaps even seeing a porpoise or whale on the way. Splendour will anchor up for the night and guests will enjoy a fabulous dinner cooked by our on board chef, and have the chance to relax and get to know the other passengers. A lovely first introduction to the Southern Hebrides.
Day 2
After breakfast the skipper will pick up the anchor and head for the legendary Corryvreckan Whirlpool, where guests will hopefully get to see this natural phenomenon in action. We’ll then have lunch just north of Jura. Splendour will anchor for the evening at Craighouse on the sheltered east coast of the island in time for guests to enjoy the beautiful sunsets and another hearty meal on board.
Day 3
The next day sees an opportunity to explore the picturesque village of Craighouse, Jura’s main settlement. Jura is an island where people are outnumbered by the population of red deer and the skies are home to golden eagles and sea eagles, so keep your eyes peeled! After a bit of exploring and a stop for some lunch, it’s time to sail on for the Gigha, looking out for whales, dolphins and seabirds galore along the way. On arrival Splendour will anchor for the night.
Day 4
After an early breakfast, Splendour will depart Gigha and head for Islay, the southernmost of the inner Hebrides and an island known for its whisky. Guests will head ashore to the town of Port Ellen, built around Leodamais Bay, Islay’s main deep water harbour. It is the largest town on Islay and a lovely sheltered part of the island, so ideal for some exploration and safe harbour for the night.
Day 5
The second to last day sees Splendour depart Islay and head for Loch Tarbert, with a chance to spot wildlife along the way from the spacious decks. On arrival guests will be able to go ashore to experience the best the village of Tarbert has to offer, with its cosy cafes, art galleries and welcoming atmosphere.
Day 6
On the final cruising day we’ll head for the Garvellachs or Isles of the Sea, which form a small archipelago, uninhabited since World War II. After that it’s on to Loch Sunart, the longest sea loch in the Highland local government area. Weather and bravery levels dependent, there might be the chance for some sea kayaking, or even a chilly dip! Then a well deserved final dinner on board and the opportunity to catch up on all the week has had to offer.
Day 7
Return to Oban for 11:00 hrs. As always fond farewells and ‘Haste-Ye-Backs’ on the dock after a Southern Hebrides cruise to remember.
Cruise Map
| Cruise Dates | Nights | Spaces | Price p/p | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Aug 2025 - 22 Aug 2025 | 6 | 2 | £2703 | Book Online |
| - Indicates single cabin available. | ||||
“Words fail. Our hearts are full and our souls are refreshed. The trip was amazing.” Bud and Gayle Harris
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
“A wonderfully relaxing trip, great company, Iggy’s wonderful food and calm and sunny weather. Thank you!” Helen
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2022
“Everything was as splendid as the ship’s name.” Geoff and Sue Crowley
Kyles and the Isles | 2022
“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023