Jura, Corryvreckan and Colonsay (2027)

This four-night April voyage aboard our micro expedition ship, Hjalmar Bjorge, explores Jura, the Corryvreckan whirlpools, Oronsay and Colonsay. This unhurried journey combines dramatic scenery with exceptional wildlife viewing and a deep immersion in Hebridean nature. Powerful tidal races cut through ancient seascapes, seabirds return to the cliffs, and seals, otters and possibly whales can be spotted from the deck. Time ashore allows you to explore remote beaches and connect with the raw, elemental character of Scotland’s west coast.

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Cruise Dates

Nights

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Prices from p/p
14 Apr 2027 - 18 Apr 2027
4
9
£1440
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Summary

This short but leisurely cruise explores some of Scotland’s most fascinating historical and natural locations. We visit the Garvellachs, with their early Christian heritage, alongside areas rich in wildlife, before marvelling at the dramatic whirlpools of Corryvreckan. We may also call at Scarba and explore the rugged landscapes of Jura, which provide a striking contrast to the gentler islands of Colonsay and the tidally connected Oronsay, home to an historic church and an RSPB reserve where Corncrakes are more often heard than seen.

The journey also takes us to the entrance of the Crinan Canal, often described as “Britain’s most beautiful shortcut.” This historic nine-mile waterway, with its 15 locks, links Ardrishaig to Crinan, providing a sheltered route that has been in use since the early 19th century. We will likely anchor here for our first night, with the opportunity for a walk along the canal that evening or the following morning.

On Jura, we explore the small village of Craighouse, with the option to visit the island’s only distillery. Jura Distillery produces a range of whiskies, from light and fruity styles to richer, sherried expressions. Closely connected to the local community, the distillery reflects the island’s rugged, untamed character and offers intimate tours and tastings that provide insight into whisky making in this remote setting.

Bringing together history, wildlife, dramatic landscapes and local culture, this cruise offers a relaxed yet memorable exploration of Scotland’s west coast.

Itinerary

Please note on our best days our itinerary will be smooth transits from one anchorage to another as shown on the programme 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 4 nights. Casting off at 15:30 then heading for the first nights anchorage at Crinan.

Day 2: A morning walk along the Crinan canal before we head for the east coast of Jura and the village of Craighouse and a chance to anchor in front of the distillery.

Day 3: Heading through the pools of Corryvreckan, we will head for Oronsay and Colonsay with an afternoon ashore.

Day 4: Heading north and a chance to spend time at the Garvallachs and Eileach an Naoimh and its monastery sites in particular. We will possibly have our final night’s anchorage at Loch Spelve on the east side of Mull, a loch rich in wildlife.

Day 5. After a very hearty breakfast to see you on your way, it’s back to Oban for 10:30. ready for departure and a fond farewell.