Trip created by David Russell
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Region: Inner Hebrides including Skye
Trip Type: Sea Kayaking
Comfort: Classic
Max Group Size: 8
Confirmed: When 3 Traveller(s) Book
Deposit From N/A
£348.75
Difficulty:
All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.
Download ItineraryWhether you’re a first-time sea kayaker or a seasoned paddler, kayaking in Scotland should be on your bucket list. Based on the beautiful Ross of Mull peninsula, this paddling journey explores the hidden bays scattered along Mull’s coastline and the sheltered stretches of water that link them.
The Hebridean island of Mull is one of the UK’s richest wildlife destinations. Its spectacular hills and coastline are home to some of Scotland’s most iconic wildlife, including eagles, porpoises and basking sharks. Midway through this trip, enjoy a unique sailing experience out to Staffa and Treshnish Isles.
You’ll enjoy private lodgings, located just less than a mile from Fionnphort. Equipped with a bright and airy lounge area and outdoor seating, there’s no better way to relax and enjoy the sunset after a great day on the water.
Meet your guide at Oban train station before enjoying a short ferry crossing to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. Unloading the kayaks this afternoon, you’ll launch from a small jetty at Duart Point. Your guide will make sure you’re comfortable before setting out across the bay. You’re greeted by the haunting towers of Castle Duart, a stunning remnant of Scotland’s medieval architecture, strategically perched on a headland that shoulders the bay. Venturing across the island later this afternoon, you arrive at your beautifully-located accommodation and settle in for the evening. Your guide will help coordinate dinner tonight, so it’s all hands on deck – great practice for future expeditions. (L,D)
After a relaxing breakfast, you’ll transfer north a short distance and begin the day’s adventure from the small settlement of Kintra. Paddling around the northern end of the Sound of Iona, we’ll explore the hidden beaches and bays that skirt the coastline, including a sheltered anchorage known as Bull Hole, located on the northern tip of the Ross of Mull. The island of Mull and its coastline provide a valuable staging for many species of wildlife so keep your eyes peeled for the inquisitive locals above and below. (B, L, D)
Launching from a nearby beach this morning, you’ll set out to discover more of Mull’s magnificent coastline, including the beautiful Erraid Island which lies to the west. Renowned for being one of the driest and sunniest places on Scotland’s western seaboard, the sheltered beaches here make the perfect spot for lunch. On a clear day, you are rewarded with incredible views across the North Atlantic and are able to identify ‘Dhu Heartach’ lighthouse, which lies 10 miles to the south-west, marking a cluster of dangerous rocks. (B,L,D)
Today we’ll take a break from the paddling and get to know the beautiful Hebridean island of Mull and its neighbouring islands in more detail. You’ll enjoy a spectacular boat trip out to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles – be sure to keep an eye out for the magnificent marine wildlife such as seals, dolphins and basking sharks and gaze in awe at the otherworldly basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave. Returning to the mainland this afternoon, you’ll have some time to stretch your legs on a beautiful coastal stroll. (B,L,D)
Embark on a unique paddling expedition today as you circumnavigate the Isle of Iona. If the weather is in our favour, we’ll leave the shelter of Mull’s coastline behind, paddling across the Sound of Iona and around the northern tip of the island.* Scattered with nine white-shell beaches, Iona’s coastline provides us with plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch the legs along the way. Look out for waders on the shoreline such as the ringed plover and turnstone and listen for the Skylark’s melody overhead. Upon completing our journey, we’ll set foot on the island and visit the historic Iona Abbey which is believed by many to be the final resting place of 48 kings of Scotland. (B,L,D)
*Circumnavigating the Isle of Iona is challenging and will depend on the group and the weather conditions on the day. Where this is not possible, your guide will aim to reschedule this for another day or arrange an alternative paddle in the local area and you will take the ferry to the Isle of Iona and explore on foot.
After a hearty breakfast this morning you’ll transfer east a short distance and enjoy one final journey. Launching from the golden sands of Uisken Beach, you’ll follow the coastline of the peninsula, paddling between the unique rocky outcrops and skerries. Upon returning to Uisken beach, we’ll enjoy a short walk as a group up the hill to the east to a cairn known as “The Last Look Back.” On a clear day, you are rewarded with incredible views across to the islands of Islay, Colonsay and Jura: the perfect place to take a moment to reflect on your sea kayaking adventure. (B,L)
To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:
We will be based in private accommodation, beautifully located on the tip of the Ross of Mull peninsula. The accommodation has a modern and nautical feel, with a wood-burning stove in the centre of the main living area. Comfortable bed space across 6 en-suite rooms, a modern kitchen and hot shower make it a cosy and warm place to return to after a day of kayaking.
There is no single person supplement charged to solo travellers but, depending on the group configuration, you may need to share a room with another person of the same sex. If you prefer a single room please request this at the time of booking and we will check availability for you. Single rooms are allocated on a first come first served basis.
Breakfasts, lunches and the evening meal on Day 1 are prepared ‘expedition style’ with everyone lending a hand in both the preparation and clearing up, with our guide coordinating. Naturally, vegetarians and other dietary requirements can be catered for, simply let us know in advance. Dinner will either be in nearby pubs and inns, which offer great locally sourced food or catered in the accommodation.
Arrival Info
Your Guide will meet you at Oban railway station by the fixed seating area at 11:00am on Day 1 of your trip
Departure Info
You will be returned to Oban railway station by 2:00pm on the final day of your trip
15 People viewed this trip in the last week
| Trip Dates for 2021 | Availability | Status | Price | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st May - 6th May 2021 | 8 place(s) left | UNCONFIRMED | £1,395 | Book Now |
| 4th Sep - 9th Sep 2021 | 7 place(s) left | UNCONFIRMED | £1,395 | Book Now |
Sometimes it's nice to get family and friends together and travel privately for some quality time. This means you benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides and we'll take care of it all. Then you can make your choice of departures dates and we'll get back to you to finalise the details.
David loves the lure of wild places. He’s regularly seen heading off with his canoe, camera and tent for a night under the stars. David spent 5 years as an outdoor guide and instructor with qualifications from the Mountain Training Association and British Canoe Association. He created this sea kayaking trip off the back of his passion for exploring Scotland’s wild places.
- David Russell
Ask David a QuestionGreen Graded Sea Kayaking Holidays 1-3
Green graded sea kayaking trips are suitable for those with little or no previous sea kayaking experience. There is an emphasis on instruction and developing your skills while enjoying the surroundings of some superb locations. You will be able to progress your skills and experience throughout the trip.
You should have a reasonable level of fitness and you can expect up to 6 hours of sea kayaking each day, with breaks onshore to stretch your legs. You will also be asked to assist with carrying the boats to and from the water, working as a team.
In the event of bad weather preventing us from kayaking your guide will offer an alternative activity such as an easy hike.
