Walking Scotland’s Small Isles

 

The Important Bits

Category: Cruise itinerary includes day sails with overnight stops, primarily docking in port with occasional anchoring. Time is allocated for coastal and hill walking ashore in the Small Isles

Status: Spaces Available

Dates: 20th - 27th July 2026

Route: Depart and disembark in Oban.

Discounts: Our most competitive rates for 2026 will be available through our Early Booking Program, offering discounts of up to 35% for reservations made in September 2025, so we encourage you to book early to secure the best value.

 

walking the small isles example route

 
 


Located off Scotland’s west coast, the Small Isles are a hidden treasure of the Inner Hebrides, perfect for those seeking adventure on the open sea. Consisting of four islands—Muck, Eigg, Rum, and Canna—these islands are most easily explored by sail removing the limitations of ferry timetables. You can explore crystal-clear waters, stunning coastlines, and remote harbours. With no major roads and only limited ferry services.

sunset in scotland.

Set sail from the vibrant west coast town of Oban and embark on a breathtaking voyage through Scotland’s legendary Small Isles. Your adventure begins with a scenic passage up the Sound of Mull with a possible stop at the colourful harbour town of Tobermory, with its charming waterfront and welcoming atmosphere.

From there, our route takes us northwest, perhaps first to the peaceful Isle of Canna, a hidden gem with dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and excellent walking opportunities—stroll across the tidal bridge to Sanday, climb Compass Hill for sweeping views, or follow the coastal path to the iconic puffin colonies. The journey continues to the wild Isle of Rum, a paradise for walkers and wildlife lovers alike. Here, you can hike into the rugged Rum Cuillin, enjoy the gentler Kinloch Glen trail, or explore the haunting remains of Kinloch Castle. Next is Eigg, where the climb to the summit of An Sgùrr rewards you with one of the most iconic panoramic views in the Hebrides.

There are also easier coastal walks through wildflower meadows and along dramatic cliffs. A short sail away, Muck offers peaceful paths through open fields and along the shore, perfect for spotting seals and soaking in the island’s serene beauty. Begin your return south and perhaps an overnight stop in the sheltered anchorage of Lochaline on the Morvern peninsula, ideal for a final short walk ashore and a quiet evening.

Guests are free to pursue their own options ashore or can join us on a guided walk. We will provide lunch and snacks for you to take ashore with you. It is important that you are properly prepared and only adventure within your limits so please get in touch with any queries.

Key Information

Travel:

Oban is easily accessible by both rail and road, but we highly recommend the train journey from Glasgow. It offers some of Scotland's most stunning scenery, winding through picturesque lochs and mountains. For those driving, parking is available at various locations in Oban, and you can conveniently book a space online in advance.

Event Information:

Check out the links below for helpful details on what to bring, our exciting provisional itinerary, and everything you need to know to join us on this adventure. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!

What to bring guidance is located here.

Walking specific kit guidance can be found here.

Our provisional Itinerary will be available here from October 2025.

Joining instructions will be available here from October 2025.

Cost: £1160 before early booking discount

Book from £754 until 30 September 2025 (£350 deposit due at time of booking) per person inclusive of all onboard costs. Discount reduces on the 1st of each month (October through to March) by 5% until 1 April 2026 when the full price will apply. Additional chargeable options are available for cabin types, selectable when booking.

Dates:

20th to 27th July 2026

Sample Itinerary:

Day One: Arrive aboard the yacht in the late afternoon, where you'll be welcomed by our friendly crew and enjoy an evening meal onboard and a chance to get familiar with your new floating home. Unpack, unwind and get ready for an unforgettable week.

Day Two : Start the adventure with a mandatory safety briefing, followed by a final familiarisation session as we set sail toward our first destination. We typically aim for Tobermory or a serene anchorage nearby, the perfect position to start our adventure.

Day Three to Six: Aim North and explore the stunning Small Isles. The protected waters make for relatively calm sailing, but the ever-changing weather can still men we have to amend routes, making this a true sailor's paradise and the exact route a fun surprise! With plenty of secluded coves, dramatic shorelines, and wildlife to encounter along the way, the Small Isles offer a uniquely immersive sailing experience to complement your adventurous trekking ashore in one of Scotland’s most unspoiled regions.

Day Seven: Cruising back to our final berthing point, soaking in the last views of these magical waters. Our final night is normally spent in Oban, with time to spend ashore toasting our adventure, but depends on berthing availability.

Day Eight: Enjoy one last tasty breakfast, then disembark by noon, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Inner Hebrides adventure.

NOTE:

  • The cost of this event includes all onboard food, fuel, waterproof and lifejacket hire and berthing charges.

  • We supply pillows and sleeping bags

  • Sailing activity is weather dependent. If conditions are too severe activity may be postponed, cancelled or the passage plan adjusted.

  • Guests will need to arrange their own travel to and from the embarkation and disembarkation points.

  • Unlike many companies, we don’t use your payment before your trip. This means if unexpected disruptions occur that qualify for a refund, your money is safe with us and will be returned quickly and hassle-free. (We also don’t charge a cleaning fee, or make you do the cleaning.. Bonus :-))