Top 5 Western Highlands Cruises: Tours & Sailing Explored

Thinking of seeing the Scottish Highlands from a rather unique angle? So, too it’s almost like a Western Highlands cruise might just be what you’re looking for, to witness those landscapes, so they look even more incredible when viewed from the water. What’s cool is that there really are options out there, whether you’re very keen on a short wildlife spotting trip, to a multi-day sailing adventure. Very, very worth it, you could say.

1. Loch Cruises: Exploring the Iconic Lochs

Probably the most famous loch in Scotland is Loch Ness, arguably because of its monster, too it’s almost as many cruises operate there, that will give you the opportunity to try and spot “Nessie,” even if you really only see ripples. That is to say, several companies offer trips ranging from one-hour tours to all day experiences, often combined with visits to Urquhart Castle, that’s perched right on the loch’s edge. Some options even have sonar equipment if you fancy hunting for the monster!

Beyond Loch Ness, quite a few other Lochs in the Western Highlands are definitely worth considering. Loch Lomond has cruises available from several villages, plus they show off the pretty islands and surrounding hills. A bit farther north, so, too it’s almost as Loch Awe offers sailings past Kilchurn Castle, and the scenery is definitely imposing. You’ll find tours available, but booking ahead during peak season is definitely something to consider.

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2. Coastal Cruises: Island Hopping Adventures

Want to feel the salty spray on your face? So, too it’s almost as you really should be looking at a coastal cruise. Tours set off from places such as Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” That, is that operators run day trips to nearby islands, like Mull, Iona, and Staffa. On Mull, for example, so too it’s almost as you can explore Tobermory, known for its colourful buildings. On Iona you can visit the old abbey, plus Staffa features Fingal’s Cave, constructed with basalt columns.

For those who rather fancy something a bit longer, several companies offer multi-day cruises around the Inner Hebrides. That gives you time to explore more remote islands like Skye and Rum, visit local distilleries, hike some paths, see castles, very often it’s almost too good to be true. Keep an eye out for wildlife on these tours such as dolphins, whales, seals and sea birds. Some even specialize in photographic trips if that’s very much your bag.

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3. Sailing Tours: Hands-On Experiences

Feel like doing something a bit different? So, too it’s almost like going for an proper sailing tour might just be right up your alley. Several smaller operators offer experiences where you could actually help sail the boat, which could involve raising sails or even taking a turn at the helm, so they do vary. Very, very, rather appealing if you want to learn some skills and work in with the water. A little bit more adventure.

These tours often happen around the Arisaig region, plus they include instruction as you travel, stopping in bays and anchorages along the way. Some of them also cater for various levels of expertise, ranging from absolute beginners to experienced sailors. They also offer unique itineraries with a little something for anyone and everyone. So too it’s almost like that sounds brilliant, to be quite frank.

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4. Wildlife Cruises: Spotting Marine Life

The Western Highlands coastline happens to be a hotspot when it comes to wildlife watching. That is to say, so many companies run cruises aimed at spotting different marine creatures and birds. Departing from ports like Mallaig or Kyle of Lochalsh, pretty much, they seek out dolphins, seals, whales and porpoises. Just a little exciting isn’t it?

Knowledgeable guides are nearly always on hand, plus they give you data, insights, tips and talk about local ecology and point out wildlife, that you really could struggle to spot by yourself. Sometimes they even have hydrophones onboard to that end, and they allow you to listen for underwater sounds too, almost virtually immersing yourself in the experience. Some operators guarantee sightings, and what’s nice is that you usually get a discount off the second trip, arguably, if your first trip doesn’t result in seeing the main species. Sounds alright, I’d say.

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5. Private Charters: Customized Experiences

Really like something special? So, too it’s almost as hiring a private boat may be your answer. Several companies allow you to hire a boat for the day, or longer, including the crew, to be quite frank. That usually lets you design your route and itinerary based on your personal preferences. Could be great, for instance, for parties if that is your want.

These charters are more or less for people that prefer their trip customized: some might opt for fishing trips, exploring hidden coves, island hopping, a day with friends, pretty much what you feel would suit the moment. Catering may even be offered, including fancy meals and drinks served onboard. Might be just that tiny bit of luxury to your day, and a once in a lifetime experience, more or less.

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