Autumn is a wonderful time to be on the West Coast. Red deer will be rutting, eagles will be teaching their youngsters to hunt, and the first geese of the season begin to arrive. Across the mainland and islands, woodlands and hillsides take on the spreading colours of autumn, adding another layer to an already dramatic landscape.
Our cruise schedule is designed to offer a relaxed and balanced pace, typically allowing half a day in transit and half a day ashore. This gives plenty of time to paint, walk and relax. When we reach the Small Isles, we may have a full day ashore, allowing more time to properly explore one or more of these distinctive islands.
Wildlife is often plentiful at this time of year. There are opportunities to see whales and dolphins, eagles and other birds of prey, along with geese and a variety of waders. Seals are commonly spotted, and otters are regularly seen too. As the red deer rut gets underway, we can often watch — and listen — even from the boat, with stags “roaring” as they compete and gather their harems.
We take our time exploring the Small Isles, the southern end of the Isle of Skye, and several of the mainland sea lochs before concluding the cruise in the fishing town of Mallaig. With frequent opportunities to go ashore, you can choose how to spend your time — painting, walking, or simply enjoying the scenery. Alongside Tori, our dedicated wildlife guide will be on hand to accompany you on walks and help you make the most of your surroundings.
As part of the cruise, we provide a complimentary transfer in our own minibus back to Oban. Departing Hjalmar in Mallaig at around 1030, we expect to arrive back in Oban by approximately 1300.
