Small Isles and sea lochs: Wildlife havens 6 Nights

The cruise area is an amazing hub for wildlife with the opportunity for close encounters with many rare species on land and at sea, while journey times to intriguingly different anchorages and locations are short.  The area is extremely scenic, taking in the “Small Isles” of Rum, Eigg, Canna and Muck, and the magnificent sea lochs of Loch Spelve on the Isle of Mull and remote Loch Sunart and Kentra Bay on Ardnamurchan. Along the rocky coastlines both golden and sea eagles are often seen circling overhead while an otter might be spotted amongst the seaweed on the shoreline. At sea, there is a chance of orca, and humpback whale, while minke whale, dolphins and porpoise are spotted from the ship on almost every cruise. In late summer and autumn, the shoals of mackerel attract cetaceans and sea birds in large numbers, making it a great time to be at sea, spotting dolphins, porpoises and minke whales. At the same time, Manx shearwaters can be seen in huge rafts on the surface of the sea, while bird populations such as gannets and eagles are at their highest, with the young most visible before they depart to find their own territory. Seals, otters and red deer are around all season but with the addition of the sounds of the annual red deer rut in progress in the autumn months. On shore, there are excellent island and loch-side guided walking opportunities, with expert local knowledge on hand from the crew and to top it all, delicious food from your gourmet chef on your return.