11-26. Remote Islands & Wonderful Wildlife: Sailing the Hebrides

Remote Islands & Wonderful Wildlife:

Sailing the Hebrides 2026

Embark: Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 17:00 in Oban
Disembark: Tueday, August 11, 2026, at 10:00 in Oban
Duration: 8 days

Join us for an unforgettable sailing adventure along Scotland’s rugged west coast and the stunning Hebrides. Renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful sailing areas, this trip will take you from the picturesque Oban to the captivating islands and coastlines of the Inner Hebrides. With the wind in our sails, each journey will offer something new and unforgettable.

On board Steady, you’ll not only enjoy the view of the islands from the water but also have the chance to step ashore and explore the stunning surroundings on foot. Relax in peaceful anchorages, enjoy spectacular sunsets, and marvel at the starry skies from the deck. Thanks to minimal light pollution, the Hebrides are one of the best places in the UK for stargazing.

Highlights of the voyage:

Explore the untouched beauty of the Hebrides – Discover remote islands, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches.
Spot wildlife like puffins and dolphins – Keep an eye out for puffins on the cliffs and dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
Visit the famous Fingal’s Cave on Staffa – Experience the stunning basalt columns and the mystical sound of the waves inside this iconic cave.
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and stargazing – Relax in peaceful anchorages, where the sunsets are unforgettable, and the clear skies offer amazing stargazing opportunities.

Your Sailing Area: The Hebrides

Sailing through the Hebrides means experiencing some of the most stunning and atmospheric landscapes in the UK, and it’s no surprise that guests keep coming back year after year. With Steady, the route is flexible depending on weather and wind conditions. We may sail north towards the Small Isles, or head south via Mull to the Treshnish Isles.

From panoramic mountain views to ancient coastal castles and sea eagles soaring above, sailing in the Hebrides has something for everyone. We don’t follow fixed itineraries, so expect to discover bustling harbors, secluded anchorages, vast sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife. With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored!

If the wind takes us south…

We’ll sail along the dramatic coastline from Mull to Treshnish and Staffa. Mull, Scotland’s second-largest island, is known for its striking mountains, deep bays, and picturesque villages. Tobermory, Mull’s colorful capital, is famous for its vibrant harbor buildings and is the perfect place to soak in some local culture before sailing onward to the Treshnish Isles.

A visit to Fingal’s Cave on Staffa is a real highlight of the trip. On calm days, we can even take the dinghy into the cave and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The impressive basalt formations and the sound of waves echoing through the cave create a truly magical atmosphere. Landing on Staffa depends on the swell, but even from the boat, the cave is a breathtaking sight.

Iona, a spiritual island, offers a peaceful anchorage with turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Step ashore and explore the abbey ruins, which tell the story of the island’s rich history. Considered the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, Iona’s calm atmosphere is perfect for soaking in its spiritual vibe.

On Lunga, part of the Treshnish Isles, you can get up close to puffins, which are among the island’s most beloved residents. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers to catch a glimpse of these delightful seabirds.

If the wind takes us north…

We’ll head towards the Small Isles, a stunning group of islands known for their pristine nature, rich history, and incredible wildlife. Rum, the largest island in the group, has towering volcanic peaks, and its highest point, Askival, dominates the landscape. The island’s name reflects its Viking history, which is still visible in its rugged terrain. Eigg, the most lively of the Small Isles, is home to welcoming villages and excellent hiking routes. From the top of An Sgurr, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of surrounding islands, including Muck and Rum. Canna, a true gem, is known for its dramatic basalt cliffs and is perfect for birdwatching, with puffins flying close to the cliffs.

Thanks to its remote location, the Small Isles offer an unparalleled experience of untouched nature and peaceful serenity — ideal for an adventurous sailing trip.

Wildlife

Sailing with Steady promises amazing wildlife encounters. You’ll often see seabirds like puffins, razorbills and guillemots, while sea eagles soar majestically along the rugged coastline. On land, keep an eye out for red deer, and with a bit of luck, you might spot an otter in the bay. The seabird colonies, especially during the breeding season, create a cacophony of sounds that echo off the cliffs. As we sail through Scottish waters, you may also spot seals curiously poking their heads above the water or sunbathing on rocks.

Dolphins are frequent visitors, with common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and white-beaked dolphins often playing alongside the boat. Occasionally, we spot Risso’s or white-sided dolphins, and Minke whales are common. On rare days, you might even see humpback whales. The real stars of the show, however, are the local pod of orcas — an unforgettable experience if you’re lucky enough to see them. Make sure to keep your binoculars handy!

Is This Adventure Calling You?

This sailing trip is perfect for those looking for an adventurous yet relaxing holiday. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, this trip offers a unique experience for everyone. If you love adventure, nature, and good company, this trip is for you!

Age 16 and up – Our trips are great for adventurers aged 16 and older who are ready for a unique experience.
Looking for variety and adventure – Ideal for those who want to explore new sights and experiences.
Active and sociable – Enjoy an active holiday with a small, friendly group of like-minded people.
No sailing experience needed – We’ll teach you everything you need to know to actively participate in sailing and make the most of your time on board!

This trip is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, and enjoy discovering new places with a fun and friendly group.

Onboard Catering

Enjoy healthy, varied, and most importantly, delicious meals prepared with care by Mariëlle. Whether you’re vegetarian or have other dietary needs, we’ll make sure each meal is flavorful and made with fresh, local ingredients. Although we can’t offer vegan meals, we’re happy to accommodate other dietary requests. All meals on board are included, along with drinks like tea, coffee, milk, and orange juice. A glass of wine is served with dinner. Other drinks are not included and will be settled at the end of the trip. For safety reasons, no alcohol is served before or during sailing.

All Hands on Deck!

This adventure is all about rolling up your sleeves and joining the action! Whether you’re hoisting the sails, lending a hand in the galley, or simply sharing a laugh with your fellow sailors, your involvement makes life onboard lively and unforgettable. Together, we’ll create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where teamwork and fun go hand in hand.

Price

• €1,725 (shared cabin)
• €2,587 (single use of a double cabin, 50% surcharge)

Included:
• Captain and mate/cook
• All meals and drinks (tea, coffee, etc.)
• Use of Musto BR1 sailing gear, bedding, towels
• Eco-friendly showergel and shampoo
• And more!

Excluded:
• Personal expenses, soft drinks, and alcohol
• Travel to and from the ship
• Travel and cancellation insurance

Getting to the Ship

You are responsible for arranging your own travel to and from the ship. There are daily flights to Glasgow, and from there, you can take a train or bus to Oban. The journey takes around 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Scottish countryside. Plan your trip carefully to ensure you arrive in Oban on time for boarding.

Click here for more info on how to get to Oban.

Book Your Trip with Steady Sailing

Ready to book your sailing adventure with Steady Sailing? Simply complete our booking form, and we’ll send you a no-obligation quote. Once you confirm, we’ll follow up with a few additional questions and finalize your booking. This ensures we’ve got everything covered for your unforgettable journey along Scotland’s west coast and the Hebrides.

For questions or to book, click here – we’re happy to help!

Travel & Cancellation Insurance

We highly recommend that you secure your own travel and cancellation insurance for your sailing trip. This will ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations. Please make sure your insurance covers both the trip and the activities you plan to do with us.