Call of the Isles: Northern Ireland and Southern Hebrides

Embark on an unforgettable voyage with Hebridean Adventures through some of the most spectacular coastal landscapes of the British Isles. This leisurely cruise explores the captivating Southern Hebrides, where the distinctive islands of Islay, Jura and Colonsay each reveal their own unique character. Joining us will be Chris Gomersall, a regular guide and photographer on our voyages and a long associate and friend of Hjalmar Bjorge.

Crossing the North Channel, the voyage continues to the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland and the remarkable Rathlin Island, a true haven for nature lovers. With its spectacular cliffs, thriving seabird colonies and unspoilt landscapes, Rathlin provides an opportunity to experience Northern Ireland’s wild Atlantic character at close quarters.

From Rathlin, we continue along the Northern Irish coast, taking in some of its most iconic sights. There will be opportunities to view the extraordinary Giant’s Causeway, explore the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle, and discover other fascinating coastal landmarks. We plan to spend two to three nights travelling along the coast, allowing plenty of time for scenic cruising and opportunities to go ashore and explore.

This exceptional cruise offers a memorable blend of natural history, ancient history, wildlife and the timeless charm of Scotland’s west coast and Northern Ireland—all experienced at a leisurely pace aboard a small ship, where the journey itself is every bit as captivating as the destinations.

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Cruise Dates

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Summary

Itinerary

Please note On our best days our itinerary will be smooth transits from one anchorage to another as shown on the program we have offered. However, this is the West Coast of Scotland, and we, are governed by mother nature. So, on occasion, for your comfort and safety, we may need to, tweak, the original course that we are looking to follow. But wherever our tweaking takes us, our trip and destination anchorages will always be special.

Day 1: Oban; seafood capital of Scotland and known as the Gateway to the Isles. Our departure point will be the pontoons just off Oban’s North Pier. We look to start boarding Hjalmar Bjorge at around 14:30, a short briefing introducing our new guests to life aboard ship, its safety procedures and getting you settled into your new home for the next 5 nights. Casting off at 15:30 then heading for the first nights anchorage. Crinan; is the Northwest entrance/exit to the famous Crinan Canal. Our anchorage in Loch Gilp is a beautiful spot surrounded by picturesque woodland views of the mainland and islands to the west.

Day 2: Head to Islay and a chance to go ashore and visit to a distillery. We will overnight Port Ellen in the bay for a relaxed evening.

Day 3-5 An early start this morning to head for Rathlin if conditions are suitable and expect to arrive at Rathlin island and our first opportunity ashore. Giants causway, Bushmill distillery and Glenluce castle are all likely destinations over the following days.

Day 6: Heading back across to Scotland, we will make for islay.

Day 7: Jura and Colonsay are our next destination and overnight at Colonsay.

Day 8: After time at Colonsay and the RSPB reserve at Oronsay we will likely have our final anchorage at Loch Spelve on the east side of Mull, our favourite spot for the final night of your adventure.

Day 9: After a very hearty breakfast to see you on your way, it’s back to Oban for 10:00. We will keep an eye out for otter as we exit Loch Spelve entrance, always a good place for a sighting.