West Coast Waters

WEST COAST WONDERS

For centuries, people have journeyed throughout the Highlands and Islands by boat, and even today, it can be the fastest transport available – and the most fun!

Whether your goal is to hit the high seas or make a splash in one of the many local lochs and canals, there is plenty of choice. You can rent your own boat to take a chartered wildlife cruise, or ride a ferry to the outlying islands, and if you have access to a yacht, the selection of marinas is world class.

Boat rentals are a popular options for groups and families looking for a relaxing day of socialising, cruising and fi shing. In many cases you can rent fi shing equipment with the boat.

There is plenty of variety in the vessels themselves, from comfortable and leisurely island cruises (with an undercover option, should it rain) to high-speed motorboat adventures to destinations such as the Corryvreckan whirlpool, which you will simply never forget. For wildlife watchers, a boat trip enables you to get up close to many of Scotland’s celebrated species, including seabirds, cetaceans and seals. Tours and group

Corryvreckan whirlpool A dolphin near Coll

charter trips are offered from Oban and the larger surrounding islands, with dolphins, porpoises, sea eagles, otters and even whales among the creatures you could spot. Expert local guides enhance the experience with their knowledge of local wildlife and the best places to observe it.

An excursion is also the means to access some of the West Coast’s inaccessible islands, and to meet their shy but endearing residents. Your chances of an encounter with puffi ns or guillemots are high on trips to Staff a and Treshnish Isles, where you will be left equally spellbound by caves, sea stacks and other geological marvels. Booking is always recommended, particularly for the longer trips, though it is possible to just turn up and join short trips, such as the seal-watching tours from Oban Bay, when there is space available.

A puffi n