Seven-day Scotland yacht itinerary
The Hebrides
THE ITINERARY
Troon
Meet Samadhi anchored in the bay of Troon and let the crew welcome you on board with brunch. In the afternoon head to shore to Dundonald Castle and explore the 14th-century ruins in their dramatic setting.
Cap off the day with a visit to the nearby Oban Distillery. Dating from 1794, it is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries and is celebrated for its exceptional single-malt Scotch.
Jura
Following an overnight cruise, awake off the Island of Jura, 82 nautical miles to the north west. Meet the island’s deer, seals and otters during a morning hike across the island’s enchanting landscape.
Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, followed by a coastal walk – or kayaking or mountain biking for the more active guests. Dinner is served on board with local seafood specialities.
Islay
After breakfast, hop over to the neighbouring isle of Islay, famed for the Bowmore and Ardbeg distilleries, which you can visit throughout the day to try their celebrated single and peaty malts.
An afternoon at Finlaggan will enlighten you about the history of the ancient Lords of the Isles and the Celtic crosses that dot Islay’s landscape. End the day in a local pub with traditional Scottish food and music.
Mull
Spend the morning exploring Islay’s coastline by kayak before Samadhi weighs anchor and heads 31 nautical miles north to the larger island of Mull. Explore its breathtaking scenery, quaint harbours and magnificent marine life, including whales and porpoises.
Don’t miss Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Maclean clan, before choosing from a variety of seafood restaurants in Craignure for dinner.
Explore... breathtaking scenery, quaint harbours and magnificent marine life, including whales and porpoises
GETTY IMAGES
Iona
Set off on a scenic hike on Mull before the yacht cruises over to Iona and the Calve Island viewpoint. Lunch is served on board while Samadhi continues on to Skye, 51 nautical miles north.
As the sun sets, drop anchor before the dramatic landscapes of the Quiraing with its cliffs and grand plateau, including the iconic Old Man of Storr rock formation, a perfect backdrop for dinner.
Mealt Falls
Following a relaxed and hearty breakfast on board, cruise along the coast to see Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, two dramatic waterfalls that tumble down to the stony beach below.
Head to shore and visit the Fairy Pools at the base of the Black Cuillin mountains to take a dip in the colourful ponds. In the evening, more Scotch tasting awaits at the Talisker Distillery before a hearty dinner on board.
Isle of Lewis
For your final day, Outer Hebridean culture awaits in Stornaway, 36 nautical miles north on the Isle of Lewis. Take a leisurely stroll through the harbour and visit the Lewis Loom Centre to witness the weaving of famous Harris Tweed.
The Neolithic Calanais Standing Stones are a marvel to see, and then finish your trip with a tour of the restored Gearrannan Blackhouse crofting village.
First published in the October 2024 issue of BOAT International. Get this magazine sent straight to your door, or subscribe and never miss an issue.