St. Kilda Archipelago
Positioned 40 miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, west of the Outer Hebrides chain and about a 5 hour cruise from the sound of Harris for Hjalmar Bjorge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a profusion of wildlife. During Spring and Summer it is home to the second largest Gannet colony in the UK with over 60,000 pairs. Although Gannets may have impressive numbers, St Kilda has 60,000 pairs of Fulmar representing the largest colony of that species in Britain. Most remarkable of all, 25% the British Puffin population- an incredible 150,000 pairs! – nest on St Kilda, as do 90% of Britain’s Leach’s Petrels some 45,000 pairs. Not forgetting an endemic subspecies of Wren; aptly named ‘The St Kilda Wren.‘
We drop anchor at village bay on the main island of Hirta. Named for the village that once existed there, the bay is the only place of a safe anchorage and the only area on the Archipelago that would sustain a community. You will be transported back through time visiting the ruins of the village and some of the reconstructed buildings. Have a look in the Stone cleits, used for storing food they dot the landscape and slopes of the surrounding hills.
The surrounding deep waters can be a great place to see cetaceans including White-beaked Dolphinsof which we had one of the largest pods recorded on one of our trips, Minke Whales and Common Dolphins.
Just to the North of the Sound of Harris, around ‘Toe Head,’ lies Taransey. Made famous for the BBC reality TV series ‘Castaway.’ With its beautiful beaches and rugged terrain, it is a remote, beautiful island to visit with sheltered anchorage. This is often our favoured anchorage on our return from St Kilda.
The Shiant Islands.
Positioned southeast of the Isle of Lewis in ‘The Minch,’ lies the ‘Enchanted islands,’ or ‘Shiant Islands’ in Gaelic, offering dramatic scenery combined with dense numbers of seabirds. Several colonies nest here, including… Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes and around 60,000 Puffin pairs.
Marine life, such as various species of… Whales, Dolphins and Seals is profuse in the waters that surround these islands making it one of our favourite destinations.
Wild Swimming
We’re also delighted to have Emma from Wild Hebridean Swimming joining this voyage. Throughout the trip she’ll be offering guidance for those who are curious about experiencing the water for themselves, whether that’s a gentle dip or a more adventurous swim at suitable anchorages. She’ll also be sharing her knowledge of the sea and the wild swimming environments we encounter along the way. There’s absolutely no obligation to take part — simply enjoy her company and expertise in whatever way suits you.
