Adventures during the summer holidays
From day trips to longer stays - Scotland's west coast will deliver a summer bursting with excitement and long-lasting memories. Don't miss the boat - get your tickets today.
Ferry good
As we are fond of saying at Caledonian MacBrayne, 'every journey starts a story', and that story often starts as soon as you set sail. This special feeling of stepping on board - and the feeling of travelling by boat can be magical - it's as exciting as seeing a new destination for the first time.
Start planning your adventure today. To help you, we've shared seven magnificent summer ideas below.
For the thrill seeker
If you're looking for a new challenge this summer, choose an action-packed water sport adventure in the clear turquoise waters of Scotland's islands. In the Outer Hebrides - perhaps take advantage of the local equipment hire spots and guides to try your hand at kayaking or paddle boarding. It's bound to give you a new perspective on the beauty of the landscape which surrounds you. Cliffs, caves, and wildlife will be in abundance.
Take a trip to Tiree this year - a perfect place to balance relaxation with some thrill seeking - why not try a spot of windsurfing or surfing? It's an excellent place to learn as the waters are warmed by the Atlantic Gulf Stream, and the waves are of such quality that people from around the world come here to surf and compete each year. Before you dip your toe in the water this year, be sure to brush up on some water safety with the RNLI Guide .
Magical Skye
Head west and take the ferry over the sea to Skye, a perfect trip. You'll be immersed in ancient history. Researchers say that the island was a stomping ground for dinosaurs in the middle Jurassic period, 170 million years ago. You can hunt for evidence at An Corran beach, near Staffin and Brother's Point near Culnacnoc. The latter was discovered after a storm in 2020.
Untouched Iona
Catch the regular ferry from Fionnphort on Mull to the stunningly beautiful island of Iona. Vehicles require a special permit, so cars are few and far between, making it the perfect place to explore. Iona Abbey and Nunnery is an obvious stop to find out more about the unique history of the island and the story of St Columba. Northend beach on the island is a beautifully untouched location - so peaceful. Or head to the Bay at the Back of the Ocean which looks out across the Atlantic. A perfect spot to watch the sun set on an extra special day.
The wild side of Mull
Take a trip to Mull and indulge in its wild side - you'll return home with incredible tales of the island's beautiful wildlife. Jump on a tour to the glorious island of Staffa to see the magical puffins before they head back to sea in August. Or with over 300 miles of coastline to explore - you might catch a glimpse of the otters, seals, dolphins and more.
Arran has something for everyone
If you're looking for some down time, Arran's local spa - Auchrannie Resort, is the perfect place to relax and recharge. If you're feeling a little more energetic - take a tour of a real working farm at Bellevue. You can get involved in helping with farm tasks and meeting the residents - including the alpacas which are full of character! Head to the Octopus Centre - Scotland's first community led visitor centre, which will introduce you to some of the marine wildlife that call this part of the world home.
Get yourself to Gigha
Get yourself to Gigha this summer. Stunning views surround this beautiful island - from sights of Islay to the majestic Paps of Jura - and the twin beaches. It's a short hop by ferry, but you'll honestly feel a million miles away, with its crystal-clear waters and white beaches. At the north end of the island, you'll find the island's Dark Skies discovery site - one of the few (and best) in the UK, where it's almost always possible to see they Milky Way on a dark, cloudless night.
We think that was technically eight ideas, not seven - but who's counting anything other than magical memories, which you'll have in abundance when you hop on a Caledonian MacBrayne ferry bound for Scotland's islands - perfect for a day trip, short break or longer stay. Choose a destination that suits you, fares from just £4 adult return