Life on Board: Your Guide to Cruising

The Rhythm of Your Cruise

Our itineraries are designed to be fluid, allowing us to follow the best weather and wildlife sightings.

• Tailored Itineraries: Each route offers a variety of stunning anchorages. Your Skipper will choose the best spots based on wind and tide, often consulting with guests on daily options. The final route always prioritizes your safety and comfort.

• Daily Timetable: We generally cruise after breakfast and lunch, leaving your midday and evenings free for relaxation. We stay at anchor overnight to ensure a peaceful sleep, though the Skipper may occasionally set sail before breakfast to reach a special destination.

• Going Ashore: Daily guided trips are a highlight but entirely optional. We use a stable boat tender (small boat) to reach piers or beaches. While a small degree of agility is needed to board the tender, our crew is always on hand to assist you.

• Wildlife & Learning: Every cruise features a specialist Wildlife Guide. While nature is unpredictable, we have a renowned record for sightings. You are also welcome to join the Skipper in the wheelhouse to learn about navigation or even take a turn at the wheel!

Hospitality & Dining

Life on board is social, relaxed, and focused on the incredible local larder.

• Communal Dining: Enjoy freshly prepared meals by our on-board Chef, served around a communal table with an ever-changing view. We specialize in locally sourced produce and can cater to any dietary requirements notified in advance.

• Drinks & Snacks: Complimentary tea, coffee, fresh fruit, and snacks are available all day. We serve homemade cakes for afternoon tea, and house wine is included with dinner. A selection of beers, spirits, and soft drinks is also available.

• Quiet Leisure: Evening entertainment is low-key—think library books, board games, jigsaws, and good conversation.

Planning Your Wardrobe & Kit

The Scottish weather is part of the magic, often shifting from sun to rain in a single afternoon!

• Clothing: Think "casual and layered." Essential items include a warm waterproof jacket, lightweight waterproof trousers for tender trips, and non-slip shoes for the deck.

• Footwear: We recommend waterproof walking boots for shore excursions and soft slippers for inside the vessel. To protect the decks, please leave high heels at home.

• Luggage: Space is cozy! Please use soft-sided bags rather than hard suitcases. If you are on a longer journey, we are happy to store your excess luggage at our secure shore-side premises.

• Essentials: We provide towels, shampoo, shower gel, and soap. We recommend bringing your own binoculars and camera (with spare batteries), a walking pole for shore treks, and your preferred midge repellent (though we keep a stock of our favorite brand on board).

Health, Safety & Comfort

Your well-being is our primary concern from the moment you step on board.

• Seasickness: Our vessels are fitted with active fin stabilizers to keep the ride smooth. Because we stay in sheltered coastal waters and anchor in calm spots, seasickness is rarely an issue. We do carry tablets on board just in case.

• Medical Care: Our crew are qualified First Aiders. While we can reach land-based doctors quickly, please ensure you are fit for travel and bring any personal medications. We can refrigerate medicine or charge medical devices—just let us know in advance.

• Connectivity: All our vessels now have complimentary wifi, which will work in the public areas. While 4G signal is improving yearly, it remains irregular in the remote islands. We have radio access for emergencies, and our shore manager can pass on urgent messages.

Quick Facts

Have more questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact Emma, our Shore Manager, at +44(0)1631 711986.