Remote Isles of Scotland

Duart Castle dates back to the 13th century and guards the sea cliffs of the Isle of Mull, giving it one of the most spectacular positions for prominence in West Scotland. The castle treasures over 700 years of history of one of Scotland’s oldest clans, the Macleans, and is one of the last surviving privately owned clan castles in Scotland. Duart Castle was deliberately chosen to be sited on a high crag at the end of a peninsula, jutting into the Sound of Mull.

Located opposite the island of Skye, and branching inward from the Sound of Sleat, the narrow, fjord-like Loch Hourn is flanked by some of Scotland's most dramatically scenic landscapes. Lined with steep mountains that slide down into the shoreline and dotted with bays and beaches that break the waters edge, Loch Hourn is home to an abundance of native wildlife like seals and porpoises and a creature who, according to local legend, lives in the loch and is known as the Loch Hourn Monster.

Part of the Inner Hebrides, lying just south of the Isle of Skye, are the Small Isles. Comprised of four beautiful islands; Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck, they are all famed for their dramatic scenery, variety of wildlife and natural wonders. Mighty volcanic peaks surround Kinlock Castle on the largest island, Rum. The basalt cliffs of Canna, charming villages of Eigg, and Muck’s fertile lowlands and beautiful beaches make this archipelago the perfect scenic cruising destination.

Bac Mòr, also known as Dutchman’s Cap due to its unique mushroom-like shape, is one of the most iconic of the Scottish Treshnish Isles. Sailing alongside this geological spectacle offers a unique perspective from the sea, as the striking appearance of this uninhabited island appears before your ship, creating a rugged silhouette against the skyline. During June and the summer months, you’ll be able to witness rich grasslands and an abundance of wildflowers on the island; as well as nesting puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and razorbills, as it has been designated as a Special Area of Conservation.

Fingal’s Cave is an iconic structure comprised of basalt rock, renowned for its distinctive symmetrical columns that soar out of the ocean. Famed for its naturally arched roof that creates eerie sounds from the echoes of the waves as they tumble against its walls, it was said to be Mendelssohn’s inspiration for the ‘Hebrides Overture’. According to legend, the giant Finn McCool built Fingal’s Cave as a place of refuge from his archenemy, Benandonner, and the road connects to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, both formed from the same ancient lava flow. In June, the cave is a popular place for wild swimming in its clear waters, so you may spot bathers from the decks of your ship snorkelling amongst the hexagonal columns.