Ferries
Nothing gives you that feeling you have really travelled somewhere like a boat journey. Planes may be quicker, but in your pressurised cabin with the latest movie you might as well be at home. Cars and buses may be less likely to make you lose your lunch. And trains... Well have you been in the UK long?
Out on deck with the wind in your hair, and the salt spray on your lips it's the only way to get that true island experience. As we make a point of getting to as many of Scotland's far flung islands as possible (in fact for over 5 years more than any other Scottish Backpacker company), ferries are very much a part of our tours.
Here are the main ones we use:
The Glenelg Ferry.
Crosses from Glenelg to Kylerhea on Skye, this was traditionally the main route to Skye so you will be following in the footsteps of many famous names. It is a very small boat with capacity for only a few cars. It is the only family owned ferry in the UK with possibly the only manual turntable in the world. The crossing is short but the currents can be very strong. Seals and otters are a common sight.
Although it only runs from Easter to October we will use this ferry whenever we can, not only for the true island experience, nor for the superb isolated location but also to help the local economy.
Calmac Ferries:
Mallaig to Isle of Skye
Sailing from Mallaig to the Isle of Skye is a short wee hop but has rewarding views and a great way to get to Skye. The ferry is relatively small but has ample viewing decks, lounges, small cafe for everyone. It's a great place to spot dolphins and porpoises making their way along through the Sound of Sleat.
Sailing from Uig on Skye to Tarbet on Harris this is a very comfortable boat. With a bar, restaurant, lounges and shop there is plenty to fill the journey of just under 2 hours. There is also ample access to the deck from where you can get stunning views of the north end of Skye and if you are lucky, the occasional sighting of a dolphin or whale. The views of Harris as you approach are stunning on a good day and as the crossing is sheltered by the islands it tends to be fairly smooth.
M.V Isle of Lewis. Lewis to Skye.
From Stornoway on Lewis to Ullapool on the mainland this crossing is the longest we take, at just short of 3 hours. This is also the largest boat and is very comfortable, again there is a bar, restaurant, observation lounges, shop and TV room (although rarely any reception). Stunning views are to be had in all directions and the final approach up Loch Broom is breathtaking with the Inverpoly mountains welcoming you back to the mainland. This final stretch is one of the most common places that we see porpoises and dolphins. An added bonus is the fact that the Stornoway Coastguard regularly practise their drills on this boat while it is at sea, Nothing gets the heart pumping like seeing the helicopter racing out across the waves while you are halfway across. Fortunately it is nothing more dramatic than them lowering the winch man to various points on the deck and lifting him again. Although when their serious work is done they are not shy of putting a display on for the eager crowds. Just don't ask about the woman in the red dress!
The Pentalina B. Gills Bay to Orkney.
Sailing from a few miles west of John O' Groats this is another independent ferry company, taking on the big boys and providing a much needed fast crossing to and from Orkney. The facilities are fairly simple (no bar!), but there is a comfortable lounge and a very reasonable canteen. This crossing is not one to spend indoors though, as it sails close to the islands of Stroma and South Ronaldsay and gives great views of both. Seals and a great number of sea birds can be seen from the decks and it sails through the 'Merry Men of Moy' a large area of turbulent water churned up where the North Sea meets the Atlantic. The crossing takes an hour each way.
Tours which use ferries:
