Whisky Journey to Islay-Jura-Mull 3

This journey along the most famous Whisky distilleries of the Hebrides takes us to the islands of Mull, Islay and Jura. Along the way you have plenty of opportunity to visit different distilleries and participate in tastings and guided tours.

This trip is also recommended for those who are not interested in visiting whisky distilleries because of the breathtaking nature and beautiful places that we visit. In the area where we sail there are more than 100 species of birds as well as Dolphins, Basking Sharks, Whales, Otters and Seals.. There are many beautiful hiking trails on the islands for different levels.

Sail & Whisky Trip: Islay-Jura-Mull Possible Itinerary:

If circumstances allow, we will follow the program as described below. The currents and the weather, in particular the wind, determine the final route.. This may mean we must skip distilleries or ports and change the schedule to make the most of the opportunity to visit these islands. Flexibility is key to make most out of this trip!

Day 1: Oban

From 18:00 you will be welcomed on board and you will meet the crew and your fellow passengers. This is followed by a delicious meal and we raise a glass to a beautiful whisky journey. Oban is a beautifully situated town at the foot of the Lorn Mountains. High above the city is McCaigh’s Tower, a 19th-century replica of the Coliseum. Oban is known as the jewel of the west highlands, with its winding streets and picturesque bay filled with yachts, ferries and small fishing boats. The Flying Dutchman is located on the “North pier pontoons” in the center of Oban, less than two hundred meters from the famous Oban whisky distillery.

Day 2: Mull

After a delicious breakfast we head to Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. On the way we sail close to the beautifully restored Duart Castle. Picturesque Tobermory is the largest town on the island, located in the northwest. It is a charming little town with brightly colored houses and a range of small businesses including a chocolate shop, bakery, candle maker, silversmith, art gallery and pottery. Tobermory is also known for its arts center, a small theater company and some good pubs and eateries. And of course you can visit the famous Tobermory whisky distillery on our Sail & Whisky tour. There are beautiful walks which can be made around the natural bay.

Day 3: Staffa and Iona

Today we continue our Sail & Whiskey journey and sail to Staffa and Iona. The uninhabited island of Staffa is famous for Fingal’s cave and the basalt rock that can be seen all around the island. The awesome cathedral-like cave, 70m long and 20m high. This place inspired Mendelsohn to write the “Hebridean Overture”. It is an unforgettable experience to see the swell crashing against the hexagonal rocks at the mouth of the cave.. Puffins can also be found on Staffa and the surrounding sea.
At the south west point of Mull lies the small island of Iona. In Gealic/Celtic: Chaluim Chille, the island of Colm Cille, an Irish priest and prince who would later become Saint Columba. This small island holds a unique place in Scotland’s history. It ignites the imagination of thousands who travel here every year as monks, pilgrims, clan chiefs and kings. During the sailing trip from one island to the other, in addition to the beautiful landscape, we may also see basking sharks, minke whales and dolphins.

Day 4 & 5 Port Ellen (Islay)

Today we sail on to Islay, the Whisky Island par excellence. Islay owes its fame to the 9 distilleries that produce millions of liters of liquid gold. Because of the various taxes levied on alcohol, it is said to be the most heavily taxed part of Britain. We moor in Port Ellen, on the south of Islay. Here you will find the distilleries of Port Ellen, Laphroaig, Lagavullin and Ardbeg within walking distance. Many distilleries are beside the sea, so we have the opportunity to visit some of them by ship.

Day 6 : Jura

Today we sail on to Jura and visit the Jura distillery. The island of Jura is a paradise of unspoiled wilderness and natural beauty. The name Jura comes from Old Norse and means ‘Deer Island’, still an appropriate name as the 5,500 deer out-number the human population of 180. The Jura distillery is located in the town of Craighouse, at the end of the jetty where we will moor with the Flying Dutchman.

Day 7 : Scottish west coast -Oban

The next morning, after an extensive breakfast, we set sail for Oban. We sail along the beautiful Scottish west coast and, where we can see beautiful views of the islands of Jura and Mull. Tonight we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner on board.

Day 8 : Oban

Unfortunately, this wonderful Sail and Whisky tour has come to an end. After breakfast we say farewell to the Flying Dutchman and the crew.

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The Flying Dutchman