This sheltered water cruise is ideal as the perfect escape for those who need to recharge their batteries and as a taster for those who want to try out their sea legs on a short 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.
Kyles and the Isles
Night Cruise
Ensuite Cabin
Private Charter
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 round 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 1600hrs. 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 and coffee. 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 Splendour’s 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 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 it’s 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 enjoy the art gallery and lifeboat shop. Ted will be waiting at the lifeboat slip to take you back to the boat for lunch and onwards to Lochranza on Arran for a visit to the Arran Distillery and hopefully a sighting of the golden eagles and red deer. After your shore trip it’s 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.
Cruise Map
Cruise Dates | Nights | Spaces | Price p/p | Book |
---|---|---|---|---|
28 Sep 2024 - 01 Oct 2024 | 3 | 6 | £1270 | Book Online |
01 Oct 2024 - 04 Oct 2024 | 3 | 6 | £1165 | Book Online |
- Indicates single cabin available. | ||||
Cruise Dates | Nights | Spaces | Price p/p | Book |
---|---|---|---|---|
05 Apr 2025 - 08 Apr 2025 | 3 | 8 | £1225 | Book Online |
08 Apr 2025 - 11 Apr 2025 | 3 | 8 | £1225 | Book Online |
03 May 2025 - 06 May 2025 | 3 | 0 | ---- | Cruise Full |
06 May 2025 - 09 May 2025 | 3 | 2 | £1333 | Book Online |
02 Sep 2025 - 05 Sep 2025 | 3 | 0 | ---- | Cruise Full |
27 Sep 2025 - 30 Sep 2025 | 3 | 6 | £1270 | Book Online |
30 Sep 2025 - 03 Oct 2025 | 3 | 8 | £1270 | Book Online |
- Indicates single cabin available. | ||||
“Fabulous trip, good to be aboard Splendour.” Paul and Elaine Taylor
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023
“Words fail. Our hearts are full and our souls are refreshed. The trip was amazing.” Bud and Gayle Harris
Private charter | May 2023
“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023
“Thank you for a wonderful trip and for taking us to fabulous places. Food was excellent.” Paul and Christine Edwards
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2023
“One of my very favourite adventures.” Ron Domin
Private charter | May 2023