Scheduled Cruises 2017

Magnificent, enthralling, bewitching and captivating - just some of the words that can be used to describe the breath-taking beauty that is St Kilda. With sapphire blue seas, emerald green hills and jet black cliffs, this beautifully nostalgic island is one of the jewels of our cruise locations. A World Heritage Site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the rock formations reaching out from the sea are the home to the islands world famous inhabitants - the puffins and our visit here is truly the highlight of this cruise. However, the journey to St Kilda will never disappoint as we depart from beautiful Oban, through the scenic Sound of Mull and past the bird paradise which is Canna. We pass the Isle of Barra with its turquoise waters lapping up white sandy beaches and Kisimul Castle which appears to float majestically in these waters. We sail on to the islands of North and South Uist, where Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil and on our return from St Kilda, we visit Harris and Lewis - passing monumental sea stacks, heavenly beaches and remote islands before reaching the impressive Isle of Skye. Sailing back down the west coast, we will see picture postcard villages, hidden bays and the best wildlife that Scotland has to offer. Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Mull With over 300 miles of beach and coastline, the sights that you will see here will blow you away. Standing on the most southernmost tip of the Kintyre peninsular on a clear day you can see the coast of Northern Ireland in the distance. Mull is well known for its hills and its Munro – Ben More stands at over 3,169ft and is popular with climbers and there are many beautiful walks and climbs throughout the island. Mull has been inhabited since the last ice age and the island is dotted with bronze age stone circles and standing stones and the iron age is demonstrated through crannogs and fortified duns. Duart castle is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and more recent examples of Scotlands' clans and castle history lies at Torosay and Glengorm. The island has a rich abundance of wildlife and otters and golden eagles are easily seen as well as occasional sightings of the white tailed eagles. Red and roe der can also be found throughout the grass and woodland. Locals produce some wonderful produce – chocolate, cheese, smoked salmon and of course its own whisky. Cruising luxuriously on a superyacht, allows you to see some of the more hidden sites around Mull. Visit the spectacular Carsaig Arches to the south of the island, or the 500ft deep MacKinnons cave as well as gazing in awe at Staffa

Step back in time with this captivating six-night cruise allowing you to not only enjoy breath-taking scenery, but also take in some of the architectural, geological and historical gems the River Clyde has to offer. The area’s long and often turbulent past, brings together a rich tapestry of medieval castles and grand mansions, some of which are still family homes today. From our berth in Greenock, Spirit of Fortitude sails along the Firth of Clyde past the ancient Viking battle scene of Largs before visiting secret religious and historical caves. We visit ancient ruins of castles, world famous film locations and modern day stately homes, all whilst enjoying the very best of hospitality, comfort and luxury. Find Shakespearean treasures, Bronze Age artefacts and tales of bloody history at every turn, all whilst surrounded by the very best scenery that Scotland has to offer. Passing places, anchorages and ports Greenock From its humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 15th Century, Greenock and its access to the River Clyde made it an important location for servicing the busy city of Glasgow until the 1800s and then became the shipbuilding capital of the world. Set on steep slopes, it has magnificent views across the firth of Clyde to the mountains beyond. Arran Full of beautiful coastlines, rolling hills, woodlands and mountainous terrain, this most southerly Scottish Isle is just 19 miles long by 10 miles wide but offers some stunning seascape vistas at every turn. Easily described as a miniature Scotland due to the variety of terrain, as you traverse the island you will feel that you are miles away from the hustle of everyday life. It is home to a modern but popular distillery and the Isle produces its own soaps and lotions with a visitor centre where you can see how it is done. Full of local artisans, we source much of our menu from here. The island is also home to the Kings Caves – a series of waterfront caves carved out of the sandstone and thought to be where Robert the Bruce had his famous encounter with the spider. Skelmorlie Castle With parts of the building dating back to the 15th century, it is a phenomenal building with more than 20 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, nine kitchens and 14 acres of gardens. Originally it belonged to the Earls of Eglinton, who were responsible for leading the Montgomery clan in support of Mary Queen of Scots in battle. Not far from the castle is a 100-foot-high artificial mound, which is said to have been the site of ancient Sun and serpent worship. Great Cumbrae Around the 7th century, legend tells that St Mirin returned to Cumbrae from Ireland and following the example of St Patrick, rid the island of snakes. To this day the island remains snake free! The Cathedral of the Isles in Millport, is Britain’s smallest Cathedral and dates from 1851 and is thought to be built on the spot where St Mirin used to preach to

A feast for the eyes and a journey for the soul - you can’t help but enjoy our breath taking journey cruising the Isle of Skye and the Inner Hebrides. Full of majestic and mystical sights bathed in historical folklore with its ancient structures gifted by man and nature. Unimaginable views are in abundance on this cruise. The Isle of Skye is home to a multitude of ancient castles, fairy wishing pools as well as the Old Man of Storr, featured in the iconic scene from the movie Prometheus. All of which is simply enhanced by the multitude of rare birds and wildlife. The Inner Hebrides and the islands most commonly known as the Small Isles provide an amazing array of wildlife and secret little bays awash with the spirit of Scotland. Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Set in a natural bay, it is largely protected from wilder weather and has some beautiful seaside shops to visit. At the top of the hill behind the bay sits McCaig's Tower or the Folly as it is better known. Built in 1902, McCaig built the colosseum style structure as a lasting testament to his family and also to provide work for the local tradesmen. Despite it being a steep walk to the top, the views are spectacular. Oban also boasts a cathedral, castle and golf course and has a rich culture in traditional Scottish music and this is evident with its many festivals. The fresh seafood found here is a must, it is literally from sea to plate! Tobermory A picture perfect setting of coloured buildings down to the pier surrounded by wooded hills around the bay up to the lighthouse with its playful otters among the rocks. At the bottom of the bay is thought to remain the wreck of a Spanish galleon which fled the English fleet when she anchored in Tobermory to take on provisions. Following a dispute over payment the ship caught fire which caused the gunpowder to explode. She was supposed to have been carrying millions of gold coins when she went to the bottom but no-one has ever managed to find any significant treasure. Tobermory also has its very own chocolate factory. Sanna Bay Just north of the tip of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula lies Sanna, famed for its beaches, rocks and dunes that make this one of the prettiest coasts in Scotland. Remote and beautiful, Sanna contains some of the most unusual landscapes in Scotland, a circular heather strewn plain surrounded by a ring of steep and well defined rock hills, the crater of a long extinct volcano. The surrounding views of the water offer both a bright light turquoise or deep dark hues of blue depending on whether the bed

Join us on this fascinating and engaging voyage in some of the most spectacular landscapes and wildlife Scotland has to offer. When time is not overflowing, it need not hinder your prospect to have the trip of a lifetime. This luxurious three-night mini cruise visits long forgotten bays in the tranquil waters steeped in a history of castles, clans and legends, this trip offers something for everyone and everything to most. Passing places, anchorages and ports Calgary Bay Cala Ghearraidh in Gaelic meaning Beach of the Meadow, to the north west of Mull is home to a rich variety of birdlife. It is an interesting little bay with an abundance of treasures to see, haunting ruins of stone forts and abandoned villages all surrounded by a shimmering white sandy beach and craggy headlands. Ulva and Gometra Gometra - rugged and unforgiving is east of the Treshnish Isles and just north of Staffa and its famous Fingal's Cave forms part of the Staffa Achipelageo. From here you can see the Carnaburgs, Gunna, Little Colonsay, South Uist, Ulva & Mull, Bec Bec, Dutchman's Cap, Colonsay, Islay, Staffa, Dubh ArtachIona, Maesgeir, Tiree, Erisgeir, Jura, Dioghlum, Skerryvore, Lunga, Fladda and Coll - a plethora of isles stretching away into the distance. In the evening listen to the common and grey seals singing and watch out for bottle nose dolphins frolicking in the waves as red deer and feral goats dive through the woodland trails. As we sail past the island look out for the killer whales which are often spotted further out to sea. Immediately to the East of Gometra is the island of Ulva, separated from it by a narrow inlet that can be crossed at high tide by a bridge and at low tide by the tidal beach. At its highest point Ulva rises 313m to the tip of Beinn Chreagach. As you approach the island, the first thing you notice are the huge basalt columns that look like they have been carved out of the stones itself. Ulva's name comes from the Old Norse "Ulffur" revealing a history of settlement by the Vikings, who first arrived in about 800AD and are thought to have named it Wolf Island. The island was inhabited long before the Vikings and a cave on the south side of the island has revealed traces of human occupation dating back 7,000 years with beautiful standing stones dating from 1500BC. From the coast you can see Sheila's Cottage which is a stunning traditional thatched cottage and serves as Ulva's museum and heritage centre. Eorsa Lying to the east of Ulva and nestled in Loch na Keal and once owned by the Abbey of Iona, it was used during World War I as a naval anchorage. The island is also the fictional setting for the 1952 novel Bridal Path which was written by Nigel Tranter. Inch Kenneth Named after St Kenneth who built a monastery on the island, Inch Kenneth lies just off the coast of Mull. Dominated by

Spirit of Fortitude is one of the largest vessels to be able to transit the Caledonian Canal, watch in awe as she squeezes through the engineering marvel that is this Thomas Telford canal in this interesting and unique six night cruise, with two options - Oban to Inverness or Inverness to Oban. This voyage encompasses scenes of murders, monsters, castles, lochs and some of the most stunning landscapes you could ever wish to see. Starting from Oban, this journey encompasses the beautiful sea lochs of Loch Linnhe, Loch Ness and the Great Glen as well as sixty miles of the Caledonian Canal with its perfectly engineered locks. There is something for everyone on this cruise from exploration activities, (cycling & canoeing or a cable car up the side of Aonach Mor and para gliding) visits to ancient monuments and numerous sites of historical interest, gardens and castles, or sitting back soaking up the wildlife and stunning scenery created by the Great Glen Fault, that runs through Loch Linnhe and the Firth of Lorne and the great glen to Inverness. Keep an eye out for that rare glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster on Loch Ness! Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Set in a natural bay, it is largely protected from wilder weather and has some beautiful seaside shops to visit. At the top of the hill behind the bay sits McCaig's Tower or the Folly as it is better known. Built in 1902, McCaig built the colosseum style structure as a lasting testament to his family and also to provide work for the local tradesmen. Despite it being a steep walk to the top, the views are spectacular. Oban also boasts a cathedral, castle and a golf course and has a rich culture in traditional Scottish music and this is evident with its many festivals. Here, fresh seafood is a must, it is literally from sea to plate and is served up beautifully by our on-board chef. Ladys Rock At the entrance to the Sound of Mull sits Eilean Musdale and the lighthouse that bears her name. Built in 1833 by Robert Stevenson – the grandfather of the acclaimed writer Robert Louis Stevenson , the lighthouse replaced a tall standing stone that had sat there for centuries. Just southwest is Lady’s Rock, where Lachlan Maclean left his wife to die in 1527. Having decided to murder her, he rowed the unfortunate Lady Catherine out to the island to leave her to die. The very morning after, he looked out from his home at Duart Castle and seeing no sign of life and assuming that she was dead – he sent a message to his deceased wife’s brother the Earl of Argyll at Inveraray Castle –

The Northern Hebrides is a long time family area for us, many a holiday has been spent frolicking with the wildlife in amongst the machair and the sandy dunes. It possesses old and traditional friendly pubs where everyone just wants to chat to you and make you feel welcome. Come and explore the edge of the world with us and experience what is known as Island time! Where time has stood still in so many ways as the world passes by. Island time is slow and easy and the Outer Hebrides encapsulates this. Immerse yourself within this culture of a proud and resourceful people. Where the lull of the Gael can still be heard both spoken as well as in song. A kind and friendly folk who are famous for their warm welcome and hospitality. Walk barefoot along the majestic white golden beaches which are home to rare seaweeds, flora and fauna. Walk among the ancient runes of bygone churches - world famous for their graveyards by the sea. You will fall in love with the distinctive quaint and traditional cottages which possess their own unique character. This cruise takes us around over a dozen islands - each with their own unique appeal and character and each one will leave you riveted by their outstanding beauty and appeal until that memory is surpassed by the next island we visit Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Oban Distillery One of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, it is also one of the smallest with just two pot stills - yet still produces some spectacular flavours. Established in 1794 by the brother John and Hugh Stevenson, the distillery actually predates the town. Refurbished in the 1890's, there has been little change to the buildings and it still retains its unique charm. The tours are informative and you get to witness first-hand the traditional craftsmanship at work as they produce the whisky before enjoying a complimentary dram or two of the Oban 14-year-old West Highland Malt. Coryvrekkan whirlpool Between the islands of Jura and Scarba hides one of the most dangerous stretches of water around the British Isles. Fear not, as we journey to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool - the third largest in the world. Watch in amazement as the gravitational effect of the sun and moon create a natural phenomenon. During high tides, listen to the roar and watch waves that can reach 9 metres high cause more water to flow in this area than passes out of the Amazon River in a day. Spectacular, breath-taking and a sight that will stay with you forever. Islay Islay the “Whisky Isle” most southerly of the western isles, Islay is known around the world as home to eight Scottish whisky distilleries including

When I get the urge to set sail, it is Arisaig and the famous and magical hues of greens and blue waters that I yearn for. The combination of islands, sheltered bays, overhanging cliffs and surrounding wildlife automatically make me feel closer to the beautiful nature of Scotland and brings an immediate feeling of relief, relaxation and tranquillity. Sailing out past the majestic beauty of Mull towards the "safe place" of Arisaig where the Hollywood blockbuster "Local Hero" was filmed, we pass what feel like long forgotten coves, beguiling bays and castles, hidden islands and sandy beaches. Sea birds soar above your head and dolphins and seals vie for your attention. We visit tranquil villages where your welcome is eternal and make our way to Loch Nevis with its glass clear reflections on mirrored lochs give you time to relax and marvel at the magnificence of the West Coast. Returning to Oban, we pass Eigg and Muck before sailing past the wild retreat of Coll with maybe a sight of the Basking Sharks that inhabit these waters. Sailing around Mull leads us past the gorgeous Isle of Iona - our very own Holy Isle before passing the uninhabited Garvellachs or Rough Islands which look to be cut from jewelled glass and decorated with precious gems of wild flowers. Relaxation in five-star luxury has never been this magical. Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Set in a natural bay, it is largely protected from wilder weather and has some beautiful seaside shops to visit. At the top of the hill behind the bay sits McCaig's Tower or the Folly as it is better known. Built in 1902, McCaig built the colosseum style structure as a lasting testament to his family and also to provide work for the local tradesmen. Despite it being a steep walk to the top, the views are spectacular. Oban also boasts a cathedral, castle and a golf course and has a rich culture in traditional Scottish music and this is evident with its many festivals. The fresh seafood is a must; it is literally from sea to plate! Tobermory The brightly coloured houses in the distance are immediately recognised by eager pre-schoolers as the quaint village of the BBC programme Balamory. If looking for PC Plum and Suzie Sweet is not your thing, then Tobermory still has a plethora of delights to offer. A picture perfect setting of coloured buildings down to the pier surrounded by wooded hills around the bay up to the lighthouse with its playful otters among the rocks. At the bottom of the bay is thought to remain the wreck of a Spanish galleon which fled the English fleet when she anchored in Tobermory to take on provisions. Following

5th October 2017 Special Rates Available! Call Now: 01577 861121 11th October 2017 Special Rates Available! Call Now: 01577 861121 19th October 2017 Last Few Spaces Available! Call Now: 01577 861121 30th October 2017 FULLY BOOKED Experience the famous and majestic Kyles of Bute, a firm favourite of those who regularly sail in the West of Scotland, sure to leave a lasting impression with its spectacular scenery as well as being steeped in history. Then enjoy the romantic waters of Loch Fyne, Scotland’s longest sea loch, adorned with Castles and hill towers, home to Loch Fyne oysters enjoyed in the world’s top restaurants around the globe, as well as Scotland’s first planned town and home to the Duke of Argyll the royal burgh of Inveraray with its spectacular Inveraray Castle! From our berth in Greenock, Spirit of Fortitude sets sail on a three-night cruise past Holy Loch, named for the sacred, yet sunken cargo from a ship carrying soil from the Holy Land destined for the foundations of Glasgow cathedral. Passing Dunoon then onto the Isle of Bute where we head north through the fabulous Kyles of Bute, past Tighnabruaich before heading into Loch Fyne, Scotland’s longest sea loch. We visit Portavadie; a place of great contrast. Portavadie is a must visit with its multi award winning spa experience. This is followed by a short trip across the loch to the fishing village of Tarbert where its ruined castle, once occupied by Robert the Bruce, stands guard over the harbour entrance. Arran is the largest of the Clyde islands and we visit the north west of the island at Lochranza, a lovely tranquil setting for a very popular distillery. Opened in 1995, the Isle of Arran Distillery boasts a welcoming Visitor Centre and a number of excellent whiskies. There is also the visitor attraction of Arran Aromatics famous for its luxury Scottish made toiletries. Passing places, anchorages and ports Greenock From its humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 15th Century, Greenock and its access to the River Clyde made it an important location for servicing the busy city of Glasgow until the 1800s and then became the shipbuilding capital of the world. Set on steep slopes, it has magnificent views across the firth of Clyde to the mountains beyond. Holy Loch Historically home to the American Naval base, set in a fault line and named for its sunken soil cargo once destined for Glasgow Cathedral. Isle of Bute- Rothesay A quaint Victorian seaside resort, full of its original architecture, packed with character. It even boasts original Victorian toilets on the pier that are the only facilities in Scotland to be given their own visitor leaflets! Decorated in the most splendid tiles with opulent colour schemes, highlighting the no expense spared when it came to the Victorians. Along the esplanade lies the unique cast iron and glass, circular structure of the Discovery Centre and further along is Rothesay Castle - which was a favourite home of early Scottish kings and

Sun, sea, golf and whisky - all from the opulent decks of The Spirit of Fortitude. What more could any golfing enthusiast ask for? Ten days of award winning courses, world class distilleries, impressive historical wonders and some of the most alluring coastlines and sights you could ever wish to see. Test your nerve on world famous links courses and follow in the footsteps of golfing legends. Pit your skill against nature on some of the most beautiful yet treacherous courses in the world. Couple this with tasting sessions and tours of local but global whisky distilleries and immerse yourself in the water of life. At every turn, nature will inspire you with golden eagles, otters, seals, whales and more. Truly, this voyage of discovery encapsulates Scotland and will enchant you forever. Passing places, anchorages and ports Greenock From its humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 15th Century, Greenock and its access to the River Clyde made it an important location for servicing the busy city of Glasgow until the 1800s and then became the shipbuilding capital of the world. Set on steep slopes, it has magnificent views across the firth of Clyde to the mountains beyond. Royal Troon With two spectacular courses, Royal Troon is a must for any golf enthusiast. Lying at the end of a gorgeous stretch of Ayrshire coastline, golf has been played here long before the club was founded in 1878. Awarded Royal status in its centennial year of 1978 it has hosted The Open Championship 8 times and will host it again this year. The Old Course is thought to be one of the greatest in Scotland and with a mixture of the wind and terrain - it is a challenging one. Take time to reminisce in the history of players past who have found glory here and take your chances on the famous "Postage Stamp" hole surely your best chance for a hole in one on a Championship course! The alternate course - The Portland Course was originally designed by William Fernie who won The Open in 1883 before being redesigned in the 1920's by Dr Alister MacKensie. Slightly more forgiving than The Old Course, the Portland Course takes you through sheltered holes on a slightly shorter course. Arran Full of beautiful coastlines, rolling hills, woodlands and mountainous terrain, this most southerly Scottish Isle is just19 miles long by 10 miles wide but offers some stunning seascape vistas at every turn. Easily described as a miniature Scotland due to the variety of terrain, as you traverse the island you will feel that you are a million miles away from the hustle of everyday life. It is home to a modern but popular distillery and produces its own soaps and lotions with a visitor centre where you can see how it is done. Full of local artisans, we source much of our menu from here. The island is also home to the Kings Caves – a series of waterfront caves carved out