3 night cruise scotland

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex®
• Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
• Celebrity Beyond℠ NEW
• Celebrity Constellation®
• Celebrity Edge®
• Celebrity Eclipse®
• Celebrity Equinox®
• Celebrity Infinity®
• Celebrity Millennium®
• Celebrity Reflection®
• Celebrity Silhouette®
• Celebrity Solstice®
• Celebrity Summit®
• Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora®
• Celebrity Xpedition®
• Celebrity Xploration®
• The Retreat
• All Suites. All Included
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
• 3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Scotland Cruises

Tabs view cruises.

• View Cruises

Luxury Cruises to Scotland

Scotland cruises bring you to a world rich in legend, history, and extraordinary beauty. Mist-shrouded mountains are reflected in glassy lochs. Wild deer graze on hillsides purple with heather. Towering cliffs plunge into water that is as turquoise as anywhere in the Caribbean. Brooding castles lie amid dense forest, guarding the secrets of the centuries.

A cruise to Scotland offers you a thrilling range of places to visit. Stroll the Royal Mile in chic Edinburgh and tour Edinburgh Castle. Join a whisky tasting—you’ll find opportunities to sample the country’s finest at every turn. Take a cruise along the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, hemmed in by forested, sometimes snow-dusted mountains. Further north, the islands of Orkney are dotted with fascinating Neolithic remains, while Shetland is famed for its birdlife, white-sand beaches, craggy mountains, and shaggy little ponies. Scotland and its islands are without doubt a highlight of Europe cruises in every sense, from history and nature to cuisine and culture.

Scotland Cruise Highlights

Haggis & whisky.

Scotland’s cuisine is unique, with specialties you’ll want to try. Haggis—a dish of spiced meat and offal—is a classic, served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). The game and seafood here are spectacular. You’ll find opportunities for whisky tasting everywhere; at the 150-year-old Glengoyne Distillery, you can even create your own blend. Have a “wee dram” on your oatmeal in the morning, or try a whisky-flavored “tablet”, which is similar to fudge.

Historic Castles

Scotland is dotted with magnificent, turreted castles and stately homes, many of which are open to the public. The fairytale Inveraray Castle, on Loch Fyne, is home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and houses priceless treasures in its soaring Armoury Hall. From Glasgow, you could also spend a day at the imposing fortress of Stirling Castle. Another option is to travel to Edinburgh and explore Edinburgh Castle, perched on the black crag of Castle Rock.

Remote Islands

Cruises to Scotland visit Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, and Lerwick in Shetland. Both are remote archipelagos scattered off the north coast. In Shetland, you’ll find jaunty, red timber-framed houses that cling to the treeless hills and seals basking on creamy-white beaches under vast skies. In Orkney, meanwhile, you can explore five-thousand-year-old Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in the world.

Featured Scotland Cruise Ports

Edinburgh, scotland.

Beautiful Edinburgh lies on the shores of the Firth of Forth, the dramatic Edinburgh Castle at its heart, which clings to Castle Rock. Stroll the Royal Mile, lined with historic buildings and medieval alleys. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish residence of the royal family. Royal enthusiasts can also tour the Royal Yacht Britannia for an inside glimpse into the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Make time for a whisky tasting while you’re in the Scottish capital.

Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland

Imposing architecture, world-class museums, and a lively pub scene make Glasgow a captivating city to explore. Follow the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Trail to admire the work of the city’s pioneering architect. Gaze at the Monets and Renoirs at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and admire the blooms at the impressive Botanic Gardens. Out of town, take a trip to Inveraray Castle, gazing over the shore of serene Loch Fyne, or visit Stirling Castle, dating back to the 12th century.

Lerwick, Scotland

A remote archipelago off the northern tip of Scotland, Shetland is a landscape of towering cliffs, sweeping beaches inhabited only by seals, and grassy hills where hardy Shetland ponies graze. In Lerwick, the bustling little capital, speed through 5,000 years of history at the excellent Shetland Museum and visit the Textile Museum to learn about the islands’ famous knitwear. Take a trip to the fascinating Jarlshof archaeological site to see settlements dating back to the Stone Age and Iron Age.

Scotland Cruise Itineraries

Cruise itineraries featuring ports in Scotland last 11 or 12 nights. There are multiple choices of itinerary available. You could sail from Rotterdam on a cruise visiting Ireland, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Lerwick, in the Shetland Islands. Alternatively, sail from Rotterdam to Kirkwall in Orkney, Iceland, and Lerwick. Round-trip Iceland and Ireland cruises from Southampton include a day in Kirkwall, while Iceland and Scotland itineraries include both Glasgow and Kirkwall.

Itineraries

Why cruise to scotland with celebrity cruises.

On board a Celebrity cruise to Scotland, you’ll find a luxurious spa, a state-of-the-art gym, and live music and entertainment all over the ship. Multiple restaurants and bars offer everything from delicious sushi and seafood to French classics. If you’ve chosen Celebrity Apex, then take in sweeping views of the wild Scottish Highlands from the vantage point of the Magic Carpet. On Celebrity Silhouette, get into the spirit of the destination with a Highlander cocktail featuring Scotch whisky at the intimate World Class Bar. On either ship, choose The Retreat ® for suite accommodation, and try signature dishes created by chef Daniel Boulud in the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat.

Marvel at the highlights of Scotland and its islands as you explore Neolithic ruins, majestic castles, whisky distilleries, towering mountains, and serene lochs. Whether you’re shopping for tartan, tracing your family’s roots, following in the steps of the Vikings, or learning why Scotland is so beloved by Britain’s modern royals, you’ll be endlessly surprised by this multilayered country.

View All Cruises to Scotland

You might also like.

Cruises from Southampton

Cruises to Ireland

British Isles Cruises

Iceland Cruises

Cruises to England

North Sea Cruises

Cruises to Ireland and Scotland

Best Lakes in Europe

Best Hikes In & Around Glasgow

Best Time to Visit Scotland

What Is Scotland Known For?

Breathtaking Medieval Castles in Europe

Beautiful Castles in Glasgow

Best Beaches in the UK

Best Hikes in the UK

The Majestic Line

There is no better way to explore the mystery and magic of Argyll and the Hebrides than a Majestic Line cruise. Take in the scenery, wildlife, history and culture, while enjoying delicious food on-board and fascinating trips onshore. Our Skippers know the most idyllic, secret anchorages, many of which are only accessible by our smaller vessels. With a choice of stopovers on every itinerary, our cruises offer freedom and flexibility for a personal discovery of the West Coast of Scotland. Our traditional vessels, The Glen Massan and The Glen Tarsan, offer a choice of 3-night and 6-night cruises to the Isles of Mull and Skye, the islands of the Southern Hebrides and inland to Glencoe and Loch Ness via magnificent sea lochs and the Caledonian Canal. Our new purpose built vessels, The Glen Etive and The Glen Shiel provide 10-night cruises to the more far-flung areas of the Inner and Outer Hebrides and up the north west coast. Destinations include the Uists, the Shiants, Mingulay and St Kilda, visiting the Isles of Mull, Skye and Barra en route. They also offer 6 night cruises to Skye and the Small Isles and the Isles of the Clyde and the Inner Hebrides, as well as three night Taste of the Hebrides and Taste of Argyll cruises. All four vessels have ensuite cabins and provide informal and relaxed cruising combined with a high standard of comfort and personal service. Any cruise with no bookings is available for private charter.  The Glen Massan and The Glen Tarsan carry a maximum of 11 guests in 6 cabins; The Glen Etive and The Glen Shiel accommodate a maximum of 12 guests in 7 cabins. All cabins are ensuite. Our Chefs source the best of local produce for our on-board menus. Our Chefs have the freedom to choose their own favourite local suppliers and provide their own menus using the best local seasonal produce available. We get very positive feedback from our guests regarding the quality of the food on our cruises.

18 Highland Avenue, , Sandbank,Dunoon,Argyll, PA23 8PB

Quick Links

Latest offer, latest news.

Scotland’s Marine Tourism Conference, A Great Success

Last week, delegates and speakers from across Scotland and beyond gathered ...

Useful Information

What to expect, activities offered, contact us now, more details, closest airport, sponsored ad.

Welcome Anchorages!

© Sail Scotland 2021 Website by We Do Fruition | All Rights Reserved | Term of Use | Privacy | Site Map

+44 (0) 7786 932 082 [email protected] Book Your Cruise

Scottish Cruises

Islands and wildlife of the southern hebrides, kyles and the isles, villages and gardens of south argyll, magic of mull short break cruise, arran and ailsa craig wildlife explorer, inlets and islands of wild argyll, skye and the small isles cruise, magnificent island of mull cruise, southern hebrides and mull of kintyre cruise, corryvreckan to the shiants, hebridean odyssey cruise.

• Scottish Cruises 2024
• Scottish Cruises 2025
• Special Offers
• Private Cruise Charter
• Family Cruise Holiday
• Cruising Area
• Wildlife Cruises
• Life On Board
• Example Menu
• Getting To Us
• Guest Experience
• Guest Comments
• Our Local Suppliers
• Events in Argyll and Bute this summer
• Ten Things You Can Do to have a More Sustainable Holiday
• Scottish Island Hopping with Argyll Cruising
• Why You Should Cruise the Firth of Clyde
• 2025 Scottish Cruises
• That’s a wrap on the 2023 cruising season
• What is the Corryvreckan Whirlpool?
• Your Scottish Cruise Reading List
• Whale Watching in Scotland: Ted’s Top Tips
• Differences Between Dolphins and Porpoises: Ted’s Top Tips
• Puffins in Scotland: Ted’s Top Tips
• The 2023 Cruising Season is Here!
• Argyll Cruising and Scotland’s Greatest Escape
• How to Spot a White-Tailed Sea Eagle: Ted’s Top Tips
• Argyll Cruising Update | Spring 2022
• Another Fantastic Year of Scottish Cruising and Looking Forward to 2023 and 2024
• Whales Galore in 2022
• The 2023 Hebridean Odyssey and Scottish Private Charter Cruises
• Ahoy from Skipper and Owner Ted
• Coronavirus Update | 02 April 2021
• Our Commitment To Sustainable and Responsible Tourism

We offer a selection of Scottish cruises for three-nights, six-nights or thirteen-nights, including private cruise charters. On every cruise there is a wide choice of delightful stopovers. Skipper Ted will consult with guests on the options available and take the final decision on the itinerary for the day. He will take into account the tide, wind and weather conditions. Cruises depart from and disembark at Holy Loch Marina on the Firth of Clyde or Oban Bay ‘Gateway to the Isles’.

An ideal Scottish cruise for those looking to explore the islands of the area and a diverse habitat teaming with wildlife. During the trip guests...

Our Corryvreckan to the Shiants cruise comprises the very best that the west of Scotland has to offer neatly packaged in a 10-night cruise. Experience...

An unforgettable island of Mull cruise aboard Splendour. Our new 6-night cruise itinerary offers stunning scenery, amazing wildlife spotting opportunities and fresh local produce. Having...

Private Charter

3-13 Nights

Prefer to cruise with family and friends?  Enjoy a private charter aboard Splendour with up to 8 guests to ensure the ultimate cruising holiday.

Cruise around Villages and Gardens of South Argyll where the coastline and climate results in some of the best gardens in the UK alongside fascinating,...

This cruising area was the earliest settled in Scotland with hunter gatherers spreading up from Ireland after the last Iceage. From the sea you can...

Our Skye and the Small Isles Cruise encapsulates everything that the Hebrides have to offer from the enchanting wild flower meadows of Sanday to the towering...

Our three night ‘Magic of Mull’ short break cruise is a perfect escape, for those too busy to spare a whole week. It’s a wonderful...

This sheltered water cruise is ideal as the perfect escape for those who need to recharge their batteries and as a taster for those who...

The aim of the Inlets and Islands of Wild Argyll cruise is to ‘travel roads less taken’, calling in at the less accessible, peaceful places...

Our fabulous Hebridean Odyssey Cruise has it all. The best sights and experiences of Scotland’s islands neatly packaged into the cruise of a lifetime. Words...

Our Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer cruise explores a rich habitat, which is home to a large variety of wildlife, including many rarities.  A...

“A fabulous trip and something we will long-remember . . . Would highly recommend this trip for adventurous people of all ages.”

Private charter | July 2023

“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”

Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023

“What a wonderful adventure. Thank you Ted and Thomas.” Michael and Ginger Barr

Private Charter | May 2023

“Everything was as splendid as the ship’s name.” Geoff and Sue Crowley

Kyles and the Isles | 2022

“A wonderfully relaxing trip, great company, Iggy’s wonderful food and calm and sunny weather. Thank you!” Helen

Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2022

Explore Our Scottish Cruises

Private Charter Cruises

Life on board Splendour

Subscribe to our cruise news.

• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

2024 Cruises

In 2024, cruise Scotland (and Norway!) with  a selection of itineraries which explore our coasts and Islands from the comfort of our vessel  Nova Spero.

Our cruises allow you to experience a real adventure on land and at sea like no other, all under the care of our skipper and the crew of Nova Spero.

Our 2024 Cruises

Campbeltown and the clyde.

For our opening cruise of the season, join us for 10 nights traveling the whole of the west coast down the Mull of Kintyre, rounding it to head into the Firth of Clyde to pass the stunning Ailsa Craig. En-route we will visit Oban, Islay, Jura, Campbeltown, Arran, Bute, Tarbert and Loch Fyne, sailing up the River Clyde as far as the bridges will allow, before returning to Fort William.

from £2,500 per person for a 10 Night Cruise

St Kilda Cruises

Our signature cruise!  In 2024 we plan to make 4 visits to the Islands of St Kilda. Join us to explore the Hebrides and on out to St Kilda, the most westerly point of Scotland. Depending on the length of trip we will have time to visit a number of the islands of the outer and inner Hebrides. A visit to St Kilda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - make it even more memorable on board Nova Spero!

from £1,750 per person for a 7 Night Cruise

Inner Hebrides Cruises

A range of 6, 7 and 8 night cruises taking in the best of the Inner Hebrides and the 'Small Isles'. On these cruises we visit various islands of the Inner Hebrides, such as Iona, Staffa, Mull, Skye, Rhum, Eigg, Muck, Canna, Coll, Tiree, Isla, Jura and Colonsay. We visit wonderful ports such as Oban, Tobermory and  Portree.

from £1,500 per person for a 6 Night Cruise

Outer Hebrides Cruises

A range of 7 or 10 night cruises which will take us to various islands and ports of the Outer Hebrides, including the Isles of Lewis and Harris, North and South Uist, Benbecula, Eriskay and Barra. Some of these cruises also take us to the iconic Islands of St Kilda - see the separate entry on this page for more details of our St Kilda cruises.

Shetland Cruises

Cruise from our home port of Fort William up the west coast of Scotland to Orkney, Fair isle and Shetland. Along the way we visit Mull and Skye, Cape Wrath and the Old Man of Hoy before calling in to Stromness, Kirkwall and Fair Isle, before ending the cruise in Scalloway or Lerwick. Return transport from Shetland is not included in the price of the cruise.

Orkney Cruises

We have a number of opportunities to visit the Orkney Islands in 2024, starting in either Fort William or Wick. Cruise the route of the famous North Coast 500 but take in Orkney and St Kilda along the way - wow! Or spend more time in and around the Orkney Islands, visiting the Italian Chapel, the Old Man of Hoy, the Churchill Barriers, Scapa Flow, Skara brae, Stromness and much more.

Norway Cruises

New for 2024, an exciting opportunity to sail from Orkney to Norway on a 13 day cruise, returning from Orkney to Inverness. Starting in Lerwick, our outward journey takes over the North Sea. One we cross we have the opportunity to sail into many of the fjords, including Geirangerfjorden, a branch of Storfjorden (the Great Fjord) as well as Floro, Leirvik and Sognefjorden (the Longest |Fjord in Norway), before finally arriving in Bergen. 

For the return journey we visit many of the same places in Norway and cross the North Sea to dock in Inverness.

from £4,320 per person for a 13 Night Cruise

Caledonian Canal Cruises

A cruise along the Caledonian Canal is a most enjoyable trip which takes advantage of Scotland's calm inland waters whilst exploring some of her finest scenery. We have 3 and 5 night cruises available. We offer options to begin in either Fort William or Inverness. Each option of course takes us through the beautiful Loch Ness, passing Urquhart Castle, and traverses the majestic Neptune's Staircase.

from £900 per person for a 3 Night Cruise

What's Included?

Accommodation with all linen and towels provided.

For charging cameras, tablets & phones, and other portable electrical items.

Your skipper & crew are on hand to provide expert local knowledge, local folklore and 1st hand experiences.

A full Scottish breakfast is included each day consisting of cereals & pastries, toast with preserves, fruit juices and a cooked breakfast..

Lunch on board or a packed lunch for excursion days. Complimentary tea, coffee & water is available throughout the duration of the cruise.

A 3 course evening meal will be provided each evening either on board or where detailed, at a nearby Restaurant.

Shared shower and toilet facilities are available in 3 locations on the boat.

Rods and other equipment is available for fishing when suitable for doing so.

We have a  good stock of cards, books & board games for use in the guest lounge.

• Three Bridges Cruise
• Inchcolm Island Cruise
• Blackness Castle Cruise
• Forth Valley Pass
• The Falkirk Wheel Cruise
• Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Cruise
• Hopetoun House Cruise
• Stirling Old Town Jail Cruise
• New Lanark Heritage Site Cruise
• Vintage Bus & Train Experience
• Coaches & Tours
• Private Boat Charter
• Corporate Events
• Gift Vouchers
• Explore Area
• See & Do More Vouchers
• Photo Gallery
• Terms & Conditions

The Three Bridges Cruise Sail the Forth

• Our Cruises

Our original cruise, the Three Bridges Cruise is quite simply one of Scotland’s best days out.

Relax onboard your 1.5 hour sightseeing cruise of this UNESCO World Heritage site and listen to the guided commentary while you enjoy a beverage or snack from the bar. Take in the spectacular  Three Bridges, the beautiful panoramas of the Edinburgh skyline, Inchcolm Island with its medieval abbey, and look out for the seals and marine wildlife.

THIS CRUISE DOES NOT INCLUDE A LANDING ON INCHCOLM ISLAND 

If you wish to include a landing on Inchcolm Island please book our Inchcolm Island Cruise .

Wildlife & the sights!

On your Three Bridges Cruise look out for the marine wildlife including many seabirds, seals, puffins, and watch out for the occasional porpoise.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the sea breeze and views from the outside decks. If the weather is less inviting, the observation lounge has fantastic views. A guided commentary means you won’t miss a thing wherever you sit. And, of course, you will get to see the Three Bridges as you have never seen them before.

Make a day of it! – View all

Check out our exclusive joint ticket options, join our newsletter.

• All Cruises
• Testimonials
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cruise Timetables

Hawes Pier South Queensferry, EH30 9TB OR Port Edgar Marina South Queensferry, EH30 9SQ

Please check our timetable to confirm departure point

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• Request a quote
•  Contact
• Your luxury cruise with PONANT
• Africa, Middle East & Indian Ocean
• Atlantic Coast
• Central America
• North America
• Northern Europe & Scandinavia
• Ocean Voyages
• Oceania & Pacific Islands
• South America
• The Mediterranean
• Transatlantic
• Show all destinations
• See all cruises
• Loyalty Cruise
• Gastronomy & Wine
• Polar Expedition
• Tropical Expedition
• Art & Museums
• Smithsonian Journeys
• Theatre & Literature
• The Explorers Club
• Show all themes
• Back-to-back offer
• Free Ocean Voyage
• No single supplement
• Flight credit
• L'AUSTRAL
• LE LAPÉROUSE
• LE CHAMPLAIN
• LE BOUGAINVILLE
• LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
• LE JACQUES-CARTIER
• LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
• LE PAUL GAUGUIN
• Expeditions
• Life on board
• A different way to cruise
• A tailor-made voyage
• Why choose PONANT ?
• PONANT benefits
• Our Pavilions
• Our 360-degree destinations
• A more sustainable tourism
• PONANT Foundation
• Certifications and distinctions
• Cruises and destinations
• Edinburgh, Scotland

Where would you like to travel with PONANT?

Which period?

What are you looking for?

• Gastronomy & Wine
• Art & Museums

Cruises visiting Edinburgh, Scotland (United Kingdom)

Your criteria

Delete all criteria

Scotland’s capital since the 15th century, Edinburgh concentrates the soul of this very special nation. There are countless reasons to stop in the city. Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites , can be visited via their historic sites. The Royal Mile , the main artery of the medieval old town made up of a jumble of picturesque streets, links Edinburgh Castle perched on its hill to Holyrood Palace via the Presbyterian St Giles' Cathedral . The Georgian New Town whose development began in the 18th century is endowed with such harmony that it has exercised a profound influence on European town planning. Visiting Edinburgh also means being immersed in rich culture, between museums, live shows, literature and the working-class and multicultural districts such as Leith. To round off your stay, don’t hesitate to push open the doors of one of its famous pubs to try a haggis and taste a whisky.

We're sorry, there are no results matching your search.

You should get more results by changing your search or selecting another destination . You can also request a quote and be inspired by one of our experts.

Need some inspiration? You might like these cruises...

Lake Superior – a life-sized expedition

Oriental Wonders & Civilisations

Malta, Italian shores and Isle of Beauty

The great adventure

Encounter with the Last Guardians of the North Pole

+33 (0)4 91 36 41 60 (or contact your travel agent)

• Scottish Cruises

St Kilda and the Outer Hebrides

• 10 Night Cruise
• Argyll & Hebrides
• Edge of The World - St Kilda
• Scheduled Cruises for 2023

Magnificent, enthralling, bewitching and captivating – just some of the words that can be used to describe the breath-taking beauty that is St Kilda and its stunning archipelago.

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 visit 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

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.

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.

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.

Isle of Canna

The most westerly of the Small Isles and measuring just five miles by one, it is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is a working farm. The main harbour, which is thought to be the best of any of the Small Isles lies between Canna and the linked island of Sanday. The sky is a playground for sea eagles, golden eagles and puffins as well as peregrine falcons and merlins. On the north coast is the grave of the King of Norway at Rubha Langan-innis. John and Margaret Campbell both lived on this Isle for many years and they collected a great history of its people, with a large collection now of its traditional songs all in the Gael, folklore and the many customs which are not to be seen in the Isles today. It is great that this long heritage will not be forgotten.

As a family we have visited this amazing little place many times with its beautiful beaches, machair, hills and moors. It really is a magical place to while away an afternoon. The most southerly of the inhabited islands of the Outer Hebridies, it is a perfect combination of stunning scenery and history in one perfect location. We sail past the medieval “Castle in the Sea” – Kisimul Castle (which was leased by Clan MacNeil to Historic Scotland for 1000 years for £1 a year and a bottle of whisky) to one of the many secluded sandy bays although watch out for planes as they land between tides on the beach at Cockle Strand. Visit the ancient graveyard of Cille Bharra and its ruins of the medieval church or spot one of the other ruins that are scattered around the island.

Barra and Kisimul Castle

Kisimul Castle in Castle Bay on Barra is a 15 th century castle that was home to the Macneil. Famed for their sea faring adventures, one Macneil pushed the boat a little too far and was arrested for piracy of an English ship late on in the 16 th century. Now in the care of Historic Scotland, the castle has been lovingly restored in part and the tower house battlements offer spectacular panoramic views around Castle Bay. Sitting in the sea with its prime position this is a proud and captivating Castle.

Eriskay & South Uist

It was on the beach at Eriskay that Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scotland’s fertile shores in 1745. The beach is home to beautiful white-striped, pink sea bindweed of which the seeds are said to have fallen from the Princes pocket when he landed as it is not native to the Hebrides. The beach today is as beautiful as it was then and when you stand on the white beaches gazing out to the sea, you can easily resonate with the Bonny Princes words – “I am come home sir”. It is also the home of the Eriskay pony, a smallish but very sturdy and hardy breed of pony.

Compton Mackenzie’s bestselling 1947 novel “Whisky Galore” based on the story of the SS Politician which struck rocks of the island in 1941 and spilled a large number of its 264,000 bottles of whisky. Thousands were “liberated by the island folk before officials turned up and searched the island to retrieve the bounty as they did not have Tax on them. Today you can get a glimpse – although not a taste – of some of the few remaining bottles that were saved by the peat that they sunk into.

South Uist is home to the oldest golf course in the Outer Hebrides – Askernish which offers phenomenal views whilst taking in a round of golf. Like many of the Western isles it is an island of two halves – the east is dominated by mountains and the west is made of long lines of sandy beaches. Along the coast are the remains of a 12th century castle and on the west is the Hill of the Miracles, which in 1957 saw the erection of Hew Lorimer’s 30ft statue of the Madonna and Child, “Our Lady of the Isles”, on its slopes.

Benbecula & North Uist

Benbecula in Gaelic, is Beinn na Faoghla which means Mountain of the Ford. This is a very apt name for the island with its seemingly infinite fords and its solitary hill, Rueval, which looks over the Bonnie Prince Charlie trail which the Young Pretender once followed as he made good his escape from the Red Coat Army following the bloody Battle of Culloden.

There is an intoxicating atmosphere here, you can’t help but feel a pulling to the past with its legends in this isolated location. It is also home to Scotland’s oldest University, older than St Andrews by nearly 200-years though not now standing, the ruins are the remains of a medieval college and monastery. Nearby sits the ruins of Borve Castle where the chiefs of the Clanranald sheltered as well as the now ruined temple to St Columba. The island also is home to a 5,000-year-old burial chamber and the stone circle called Finn’s People, one of the finest on the island.

With a splendid mixture of fresh and salt water lochs adorned with miles of white sandy beaches, this area is a paradise for birdwatchers and animal lovers alike. A unique opportunity is had to see the only short eared owl that appears in daylight and the ghostly white hen harrier swooping gracefully down to capture its prey. Witness otters as their families’ frolic or better still the elusive grey and brown corncrake one of Europe’s most endangered species, as it sings for the evening serenade. Machair dresses the beaches where wading birds nest and leads to the RSPB Nature Reserve.

Your imagination and heart cannot help but be captivated by this location, with its amazing and tragic stories many of which demonstrate the power of the human spirit and its quest to survive.

For centuries the St Kilda clutch of islands was under Clan MacLeod and their traditions included that no man could marry until he could weave a rope out of horsehair so that he could maintain his wife by climbing to hunt the seabirds who live on the cliffs. At one time it was estimated that each person on St Kilda ate 115 fulmars every year. And in 1876 it was said that the islanders took 89,600 puffins for food and feathers.

Today, St Kilda is the UK’s only UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site and National Nature Reserve and one of only 29 global locations to be awarded World Heritage Status for both natural and cultural significance – putting it on a par with Machu Picchu and Mount Athos

These archipelagos with their exceptional cliffs and sea stacks, are rich in wildlife and form the most important seabird breeding station in north-west Europe. The cliffs of St Kilda are home to an estimated 1 million sea birds including puffin, fulmar, gannet, shearwater, petrel, kittiwake and shags. It truly feels like you are on the edge of the world.

St Kilda is one of the best places in Britain for diving because of its clear water and its submerged caves, tunnels and arches – all of which give the diver a rich experiences of the marine life on offer.

The tragic evacuation of this island in 1930 has meant that St Kilda has one of the most extensive groups of vernacular building remains in Britain. The layout of the 19th-century village remains to this day and the story of the evacuation and the build up to it brings a shiver to the listener. As you walk through the abandoned village and houses left in mid flow, you expect to hear echoes of the everyday life that they left behind.

The legends, stories and folklore of St Kilda are plenty and here are just a few of our favourites:

Lover’s Stone

Before the young men of St Kilda could marry, they had to prove they were able to provide for a family by climbing the rocks to catch birds for food to test their agility, balance and patience. They had to balance on their left foot over the iconic edge of the protruding rock, place their right foot in front, bend down and make a fist over their feet. This demonstration would show that they could hunt and thus feed a family before getting into a position of having a family to feed and no way of feeding them!

The mailboat

The first mailboat was sent out as a distress signal in time of famine by John Sands, a journalist, who was stranded on St Kilda during winter of 1876. A small wooden ‘boat’, containing a letter, usually sealed in a cocoa tin whilst a sheep’s bladder acts as a float. A St Kilda mailboat is sent by St Kilda work parties as part of the ritual of visiting St Kilda. They are carried by the Gulf Stream and can reach far off places such as Scandinavia. You will have the chance to send your very own mailboat, courtesy of The Royal Scottish Shipping Line.

Village Bay, Hirta

Smallpox Epidemic

After visiting Harris in 1726 a St Kildan caught smallpox and died from it. His clothes were returned home to St Kilda in 1727, but these inadvertently brought the disease with them. Killing most of the Islanders, only one adult and 18 children survived the outbreak on Hirta. However, three men and eight boys managed to escape the disease as they had been left on Stac an Armin with no means of transport back, to collect gannets. There was no one left to fetch them back. They were eventually rescued by the Steward an amazing nine months later!

The Lady Grange

Formerly the wife of the Scottish Advocate, after separating from him, she spread vicious rumours of him being a Jacobite sympathiser. In revenge he imprisoned her on St Kilda in 1734. Eventually she managed to alert friends to her circumstances and they rescued her before taking her to the Isle of Skye where she died in 1742. A large cleit in the Village is traditionally said to be the house where she was held prisoner.

The Great Auk

The Great Auk, – Scotlands’ equivalent to the Dodo was once a familiar sight to sailors in the North Atlantic and was a frequent visitor to St Kilda before becoming extinct in 1844.

Sitting at the North West corner of the Western Isles, Harris is actually joined to the Isle of Lewis. Home to the ferry boat to Harris. To the west of the island are some of the most tantalisingly inviting beaches framed by sandy machair dunes whilst the north couldn’t be more in contrast with its rugged, treacherous and mountainous terrain. The isolated east coast has some of the oldest rocks in the world and these 3,000 million years old rocks help to form the islands many bays. To me, this is one of the purest places on earth with beaches of white sparkling sand and the sea that looks amazing in any light.

Not surprisingly, this beautiful coast was used to film the BBC Series Castaway 200. At the southern tip of Harris lies the 16th Century church of St Clement. Designed by Alasdair Crotach so named for the word meaning hunchback from a sword injury, the church boasts three tombs carved in almost striped black gneiss depicting knights. For the brave, a steep climb up almost vertical spiralling steps offers an amazing view of the island. This island is full of pretty little houses and famed for its collection of Harris Tweed shops, selling the Isles own produced Tweed – perfect for that authentic gift from the Gaels.

When stepping ashore, you feel as if you live in a world of beautiful contradictions as you view ancient stone circles alongside the modern way of life and hear a mix of both Gaelic and English both spoken with ease.

This landscape comes to a dramatic climax at the Butt of Lewis where these imposing cliffs are home to kittiwakes, shags and black guillemots. Southwest Lewis has some beautiful beaches and the Uig hills, home to red deer and several pairs of breeding golden eagles. Further along you will find the sea stacks at Mangersta, what looks like a range of high peaked mini mountains pushing their way up from the sea. It is a bird lover’s paradise with redshank, greenshank, oystercatchers, curlew, ringed plover, dunlin, shel ducks, red-breasted merganser and merlins can be seen speeding over the moor in pursuit of meadow pipit or wheatear.

The largest town in the Outer Hebrides, is home to a population of around 8,000 over half of whom speak Gaelic. Until recently, the Sabbath was strictly observed with ferries only starting to run in 2009.

The town has a strong Viking history and due to its natural sheltered harbour it grew rapidly and was a natural stopping off point for travellers to and from the mainland. Tragedy struck in 1919 though when the Lolaire sank at the entrance to the harbour – killing over 200 men who were returning safely from the war in 1919.

The town is also home to Lews Castle which has just undergone a major reconstruction and houses a museum

Shiant Islands

The Shiants have one of the largest puffin colonies in the world – around 240,000 nest among the cliffs here every year, add to that the tens of thousands of guillemots, razorbills, the thousands of fulmars and kittiwakes and shags and this has to be the greatest place to watch birds in the world.

Isle of Skye

The stunning approach to the Isle of Skye and its impressive black Cuillin hills and their dramatic backdrop offers spectacular scenes of beauty from every angle. Skye is one of the most magical and beautiful places to visit from the sea with its mystical Fairy Rock Pools, and its famed Old Man of Storr, an impressive 165ft high column of rock along with its Coral beach to name just a few of the worthy sights

The remains of the headland fortress of Duntulm Castle perfectly frame the view from the tip of the Trotternish peninsula and further south lies the intriguing Kilvaxter Souterrain. To the North West lie two further peninsulas, Duirinish and Waternish – both worthy of exploration for both their beauty and also the ruin of Trumpan Church which is famous for “The Battle of the Spoiling of the Dyke”.

Tokavaig on the coast sits on a small pebbly beach under the watchful eye of the ruins of Dunscaith Castle. Legends tell that the original castle was built in a single night with the help of a witch. This headland was also said to have been the location for the legendary “School for Heroes” run by the Celtic warrior queen, Scáthach, whose name is reflected in that of the castle.

Meaning “The Sanctuary” in Gaelic the area is extremely isolated yet beautiful. Applecross was only accessible by boat until the early 20th century and today it is a very popular place to visit. Historically, the settlement is linked with St. Máelrubai, a monk who came to Scotland in 671AD from the major Irish monastery. He founded Aporcrosanin 672 in what was then dangerous Pictish territory. The early monastery is located around the site of newer parish church built in 1817. A large, unfinished cross-slab standing in the churchyard and three extremely finely carved fragments of another preserved within the church are evidence of the early monastery.

Kyles of Lochalsh

The gateway to the Isle of Skye. Lochalsh village has some beautiful whitewashed cottages that you can see from the water and fantastic views of the world famous Skye Bridge and the Cuillin Range. The surrounding landscape is a haven for deer – both red and roe, as well as golden eagles and otters.

The Small Isles

Just south of the Isle of Skye lies an archipelago of four small islands – Eigg, Canna, Rum and Muck. Made up of a column of lava, Eigg has a bloodthirsty history of clan rivalry that ended in the death of the islands entire population. Rum is a national nature reserve and is one of Britain’s last wildernesses and is home to the Manx Shearwater that glides straight winged along the surface of the surrounding coast. On the smallest island Muck, a dagger and a number of burial cairns have been found which date back to the Bronze Age whilst thanks to the Gulf Stream its waters support a number of rare crabs, small purple sea urchins, and the only British Coral, the “Cup Coral”. Canna is the archetype of Hebridean islands and displays, evidence of the once great volcanic forces which have been at work in the earth’s crust. Wildlife is abundant here both on land and sea.

Tour Reviews

I loved this cruise! The booking process was simple and the staff very helpful, we got some great weather which was also a bonus. One less item on the bucket list!

Just fantastic cruise, wonderful scenery, friendly ports, most helpful and pleasant crew and the most gorgeous food have ever tasted. Most of the food was local sourced. The yacht is very comfortable, clean and spacious. Would highly recommend.

Thank you very much for a wonderful trip and an experience we will never forget.

We just wanted to let you know how really wonderful our cruise of the Western Isles was and how much we enjoyed it all. The Spirit of Fortitude was absolutely luxurious and the scenery more splendid than we had ever imagined but we reserve an even higher praise for the terrific crew you have put together. They looked after us every step of the way, nothing was too much bother and the food was outstanding. When we said goodbye on Tuesday it was like farewelling friends.

Nothing was too much trouble; all crew were attentive and friendly. We were looked after both professionally as well as with great care. Chef provided a string of excellent meals along the whole trip. Craig and Mark did all they could to keep us safe and help us enjoy our time aboard and ashore. The captain did everything with good humour, and successfully traveled though the night to ensure we arrived at St Kilda, which was most memorable. Our cabin was very comfortable with great storage space and the overall public spaces where very superior as well as comfortable. We would rate the whole experience excellent and would not hesitate to recommend to our friends.

Captain was highly committed to getting us to St Kilda. The crew as well as having high regard for our safety also spent a lot of time pointing out various places and the wildlife. This was all topped off of course with the high quality of meals and vert well balanced. The overall areas within the boat were of very good quality with ample space, we would recommend this trip to our friends.

Our Captain did an excellent job in sometimes difficult conditions with regards to the weather. The crew were always helpful and seemed to have everything under control. Our steward was charming and very hard working and does a great job in the table settings. Everyone enjoyed Chef’s food, he was also very diligent with food allergies which we so appreciated. Everyone was extremely warm, friendly and helpful. The vessel was great! Both inside and out with good windows upstairs and very elegant decor. We found our cabin incredibly comfortable with lots of space for clothing etc. We both very much enjoyed the holiday with the highlight being St Kilda as well as the other guests and crew.

Leave a Review

Cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

You May Also Like

The Spirit of the Sea

The Arisaig Route

Isle of Skye & The Inner Hebrides

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Book a Hotel
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Required Travel Documents
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Transportation
• Royal Gifts
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

• Single Availability
• 3 - Night Cruises
• 6 - Night Cruises
• 10 - Night Cruises
• Special Offers
• The Clyde and the Southern Hebrides
• Coast to Coast
• North West Coast
• Outer Hebrides
• Wildlife of the Hebrides
• Landscape - the West of Scotland and the Hebrides
• Accommodation Oban
• Accommodation Dunoon
• Accommodation Inverness
• Cruising Tips
• MV Glen Massan
• MV Glen Tarsan
• MV Glen Etive
• MV Glen Shiel
• MV Glen Rosa
• Going Ashore
• Green Tourism Award
• Our Green Story
• Accessing our boats comfortably
• Life on board
• Food and Drink
• Local produce
• Responsible Visitor Charter
• Private Cruise Charter Prices
• Glen Rosa Private Charter
• Private Cruise Charter Guest Reviews
• Wedding Private Cruise Charter
• Private Cruise Charter Enquiry Form
• Add Your Review
• Awards and Commendations
• Guest Photos 2023 Season
• Delicious Dishes Using Locally Sourced Produce
• Guest Photos 2022 Season
• Images from our 2021 season
• Guest Photo Competition Winners 2019
• Guest Photos 2019 Season
• Crew Images 2019 Season
• Guest Photos 2018 Season
• Crew Images 2018 Season
• 6 reasons you should choose a small ship cruising holiday
• Time Out lists 3 Scottish destinations in their top 15 places to visit in the UK in 2023
• Our Green Journey
• When and where to spot 12 of the most iconic Scottish wildlife
• How to explore Scotland’s UNESCO Trail
• The best beaches to visit on the west coast of Scotland
• Five Things Autumn Brings to Scotland
• Why book a small-ship private charter?
• Spring Awakens: 6 Compelling Reasons to Set Sail on a Small Ship Cruise After Winter’s Chill

The Perfect Cruise for the Solo Traveller

Accommodation onboard is in double/twin cabins; however on Glen Massan, Glen Tarsan, Glen Etive and Glen Shiel we reserve two cabins on every cruise for single occupancy of a double cabin at no additional supplement. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate single occupancy on Glen Rosa.

See the calendar below for our 2024 and 2025 cruises with double cabins available for single guests at no supplement.

We have limited availability in 2024 however, 2025 has a good selection of dates for single traveller occupancy - look out for the person icon on the calendar

Be part of a friendly group

Our solo traveller guests feel completely at home on our cruises, enjoying being part of a friendly group. We recommend that if you wish to take advantage of this opportunity for a single traveller with no supplement that you book as early as possible.

No single supplement for groups of odd numbers

Our solo traveller offer of two cabins on each cruise for single traveller occupancy is also perfect for groups of odd numbers, so if you are one or two couples with an additional single traveller in your group, no-one has to pay a single supplement (subject to availability).

Single Availability 2024

Single availability 2025.

Thank you to all on Glen Massan for giving us such an amazing Golden Wedding celebration memory. We shall no doubt return.