Sailing among green hills, historic castles and traditional whisky distilleries!
New trip!
Join us on board on our whisky sail around the Southern Hebrides. We will explore the west coast of Scotland, find the best anchorages, views, beaches, medieval castles and not least dive into the historic whisky traditions.
Around the Hebrides from Mallaig to Oban
Our British skippers tell wonderful stories about the west coast of Scotland. Where we find a rich archipelago of rocky islands and small traditional villages in sheltered lagoons and bays. We’ll sail about 150 nm during this voyage, starting in the cosy harbor town of Mallaig. We sail south around the Inner Hebrides, including the islands of Mull, Islay and Jura. Then we end the trip in the largest town on the west coast of Scotland, Oban. Welcome on board this year’s new trip, we can’t wait to explore these waters together with you!
Whisky sail and an active holiday
The Hebrides are known for their grassy hills and mountains, white beaches, old traditional fortresses and castles, and cosy coastal villages. But did you know that these islands has previously been part of the Norwegian kingdom? The Vikings were the rulers of the north Atlantic more than 1000 years ago. Including the islands of the Hebrides and even parts of mainland Scotland, at the peak of the Viking empire. Today we still find remnants of the Norse culture in these areas.
The islands here however, are probably best known for their historic and important whisky traditions. From the most smoked and peaty varieties to the smoothest flavours from the area’s raw nature, mountain and sea. We sail past distilleries such as Laphroaig, Jura, Ardbeg, Tobermory, Bowmore, Bunnahabhain and Ardnamurchan. We aim to visit a couple of them, and taste as many of them as possible along the way! During our adventure, we will also go hiking, have bonfires on the beach and immerse ourselves in Scottish culture and sailing traditions.
Be part of the crew on board
If you think this will be an uninvolving cruise on a yacht, you have to think again… On our trips you are part of the crew and you get the opportunity to try your hand at all the tasks on board. You get to stand at the helm, hoist sails, cook, navigate, take a morning swim, gut fish, serve anchor dram and tie knots; the complete sailing experience!
You don’t need to be able to sail to participate, and regardless of whether you have a lot or little experience, we will challenge you and you will learn a lot along the way. This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to test sailing on a larger boat. See the west coast of Scotland from the sea or learn more about navigation, seamanship and the Scottish whisky traditions. Welcome to an unforgettable trip!
Experience the art of whisky-making firsthand, savoring exquisite blends, all while enjoying the tranquility of sailing through Scotland's picturesque seas. Unwind in style, create memories together, and let the rhythmic waves and the finest spirits weave an unforgettable tale of adventure. Join us for a voyage where the beauty of the seas meets the spirit of Scotch!
John Macken, SeilNorge skipper
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome on board in Mallaig
We meet at the dock in Mallaig at 16:00. We check in on board, go through life on a sailing boat, safety routines and get to know each other and the boat. We look at the plan for the trip together and make the boat sea-worthy. When we are ready, we set off on the adventure! For the first night we find a nice anchorage or little harbor. Perhaps on one of the islands of Eigg or Muck.
Day 2: Tobermory and the Isle of Mull
The Isle of Mull is one of the largest islands in the Inner Hebrides, which we will explore during these days. Tobermory is located north-east on Mull and is a very cosy little harbor town with colourful old houses along the seafront. Here, of course, they also have their own distillery, and we hope to get a tour here. We spend the night docked in Tobermory.
Day 3: Full sailing day towards Islay and Jura
Weather permitting, we hope to sail around the west coast of Mull. Where we find a great archipelago, perfect for sailing. With exciting sea cliffs and caves, lovely anchorages and hopefully good winds. We see how far we get today, and we have good optional anchorages both around Tinkers Hole and at the beaches on Colonsay. Either for lunch stops or for the night.
Day 4: Mountain hike and whisky tasting
The landscape on the islands of Islay and Jura is dominated by grassy hills and rocky mountains. Perfect for a hike on land to stretch our sea legs. This is the heart of the Island Whisky, with 9 distilleries only on the island of Islay! They all have their own characteristics and we hope to visit either Bunnahabhain or Caol Ila. Both of which are scenically located in the strait between Islay and Jura.
Day 5: To Oban and bye for now
We spend our last day on board sailing into the straits between the islands on our way to Oban. The main port on the west coast of Scotland. Oban is a lively town, with classic Scottish brick architecture, a good selection of bars and, of course, its own distillery. We clean, pack and wash ourselves off the boat on the way to the dock and say goodbye no later than 16:00 this last afternoon. Thanks for a great, memorable experience together!
Changes to the program
The program should be seen as a starting point, which we adapt depending on weather and conditions underway. We reserve the right to constantly improve the program for the better. With us along the way, we always have dinghies for beach landings and small expeditions. We have fishing equipment for the cod, and hiking equipment for bonfires and summit climbs – we are ready for adventure, are you?!
What is included?
- A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper/instructor with local knowledge on board
- All food we eat on board during the trip
- Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
- An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
- A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
- A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
- Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
- All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
- Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
- Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
- Visit to whisky distillery underway including tour and tasting.
What is not included?
- Travel to and from the start/end location
- Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip
- Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
- Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
- Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
- Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, but recommended!)
Important info
Travel
This trip start in Mallaig and end in Oban, Skottland.
You find more information on travel, equipment and other tips under Practical info.
Deposit and payment
You only pay a deposit (NOK 6000) upon registration, the remainder of the payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Safety and risk on board
We are all about people, and so we also take safety very seriously. On our trips we practice sail- and boat handling also for safety, and we spend time going through various situations that can arise at sea, how to handle them and how to avoid them.
On board a boat everyone must know what to do in critical situations and in the event of an emergency. Our philosophy is that partaking and participation builds safety. It is important for the safety of the whole boat that you are a participant on board, not just a passenger.
Therefore all our trips are to be considered sailing courses in addition to being great holidays and adventures: You are trained to make up the crew on board and so we build a capable team on board.
Feel free to contact us for a chat about safety and risk on our adventures.
Level of the trip
No sailing experience? No problem! Our sailing adventures welcome both novices and seasoned sailors for an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to sailing or a salty sea dog, our trips cater to all levels.
We aim to transform beginners into sailors quickly while offering experienced participants greater responsibilities and challenges. Our mainland sailing journeys involve 44-50 feet boats navigating coastal and protected waters, occasionally crossing open stretches for excitement. Route adjustments based on weather and conditions ensure a safe and adaptable voyage.
Trips are not overly strenuous; with rotating positions, participants can balance sailing and relaxation. Active engagement minimizes seasickness, and if it occurs, it passes swiftly. Weather, however, is unpredictable, with the potential for stronger winds and various conditions in northern Norway and the Arctic, making each trip a true sailing adventure. Be prepared for calm winds and rough weather—embracing the elements for an unforgettable experience.
What we expect from you
Our trips require a little effort from you who are joining – everyone on board must be ready to contribute and to give of themselves also socially; the more you open up, share and interest yourself in the others on board, the more enjoyable it gets.
When you’re sailing with us you are invited to take part in the running of the ship and all that comes with it. You will be sailing, docking, navigating, looking out for whales and icebergs, but also making food, serving others, doing dishes and helping clean the boat during the trip, and contributing in other ways when needed. On board we are all in the same boat and when all help out, the ship is most happy.
Our experience is that doing things together with others out in nature, and not least cooperating and doing activities with new people and different personalities than you might have around you normally, is what creates the best, most interesting and memorable moments and stories:)
Equipment and packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of special equipment and clothing for sailing. If you don’t have any of this, you will get very far with normal hiking/outdoor equipment. You do not need to buy a lot of new equipment to join our trips. Use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last! What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered warm clothing underneath.
Some jackets may not be waterproof “enough”, or might not perform too well in salt water, so you can consider a set of oilskin for the wettest days (available for rent or purchase on board). A pair of higher rubber boots for disembarking from the dinghy is very good to have, as well as indoor shoes below deck. Out at sea and in the Arctic it can be cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. Well before departure, we will send you a detailed recommended packing list.
Read more and see our packing tips here:
PS: In a sailboat, you pack in a bag or sack, not in a rigid suitcase. 🙂
Food & cooking on board
On our trips, you will be part of the crew on board and get the chance to participate in all tasks for the operation of the boat. This includes cooking and preparing food – everyone take turns in the galley! Skippers and crew assist as much as they can along the way.
We have great menus with tasty, healthy and “boat-friendly” food, and for each trip we order provisions for all meals on board. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account as best as we can. You are also most welcome to bring any special food or drink with you. Why not bring some specialities from your country or region for the boat to enjoy?
During a weeklong trip we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we can have dinner on land. Some places we need to pre-book and we will then need to choose a menu before we arrive. More about all of this when you come on board!
Life on board & accommodation
Life on a sailboat is super social and fun, but it might feel a bit intimate at first. No worries though, that vibe usually fades after the first hour. Everyone chips in to run the boat, and we’re all part of the crew, which means quick bonding.
We’re keen to get to know you and hope you’ll connect with the rest of the crew. It takes some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but soon you’ll be focused on making new friends and enjoying raw nature experiences once sea life feels like home.
Sleeping arrangements in shared cabins with double or bunk beds can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re pretty good at figuring it out. Let us know if you have preferences. You’re on your own for land accommodations before or after the trip.
The boat provides heating and good food, but fresh water isn’t always abundant. Water conservation means not showering every day, but when near freshwater sources, we make the most of it. But nothing beats a morning sea swim for that fresh feeling.