Something for Everyone!

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Oban

Nestled among Scotland’s rugged west coast, Oban is the perfect gateway to the stunning Inner Hebrides. Known as the “Seafood Capital of Scotland,” it offers a vibrant culinary scene, historic attractions, and picturesque harbour views. If you arrive early, explore the fascinating Oban Distillery, take a walk up to McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views, or enjoy a fresh seafood dinner overlooking the bay. Transport links are excellent, with regular train services from Glasgow and bus routes connecting to the Highlands.

On joining Provident, a gaff-rigged, 100-year-old Brixham sailing trawler, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the experienced crew. After a safety briefing and a chance to settle in, we’ll hoist the sails and set course for a week of adventure among the Hebridean islands.

Along the Way

Over seven days, we’ll explore the Inner Hebrides, an archipelago famed for its dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and charming islands. The beauty of a voyage like this, is there’s no set destination! Our journey will be set by the wind and waves. Some possible visits include:

• Mull: Towering mountains and historic Duart Castle.
• Iona: A tranquil isle with white sandy beaches and the historic Abbey.
• Muck, Canna, Rum, and Eigg: Each offers its unique charm—from the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Rum to the sandy coves of Eigg. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot dolphins, porpoises, and puffins, while golden eagles soar overhead.
• Coll and Tiree: Known for their sunny climates, these islands boast unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters.

There are opportunities for the group to split – some to walk across the islands and some to sail round to a sheltered bay where Provident will be waiting.

Arriving back in Oban

After a week of exploration, we’ll return to Oban with memories of breath-taking vistas, shared meals on deck, and the thrill of sailing aboard a historic vessel. Enjoy a final evening in the town before heading home, or stay an extra day to visit nearby attractions like Kerrera or Seil Island.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

May offers ideal sailing conditions in the Inner Hebrides, with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and typically calmer seas. Spring brings an abundance of wildlife, and the blooming wildflowers add a splash of colour to the islands. While conditions can vary, the crew will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, even for first-time sailors.

A NOTE ON VOYAGE DESCRIPTIONS

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice. 

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail. Handling cargo adds an extra dimension – building teamwork and communication skills and leaving you with a great sense of achievement.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Provident

What is Included:

• Bedding
• All meals and soft drinks aboard.
• All safety equipment, including lifejackets
• Fantastic sailing

What is Not Included:

• Travel to and from your voyage
• Personal travel insurance.
• Alcohol (although reasonably priced wine, beer and whisky will be available to purchase on board). Consumption of alcohol is always at the discretion of the skipper
• Waterproofs - If this is your first voyage good walking waterproofs will be fine. We only recommend buying sailing waterproofs if you are frequent sailors.
  • You will find exploring ashore in walking gear much better than struggling around in sailing kit!

What to Bring

• Enthusiasm!
• Waterproofs - see above.
• Your own towel.
• Hats for sun and cold weather.
• At least two sets of warm clothes - layers e.g. tracksuit bottoms, shirts, fleece jacket, wool jumpers, thick socks, and neck scarf. It can get cold at sea even in mid summer.
• Swim suit, towel, and suntan lotion.
• Flat shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes. Sailing boots or wellies are also helpful.
• (An alterative to boots in summer is to bring another pair of flat shoes with a good grip in case the first pair get wet).
• All terrain type Sandals are great for dinghy trips ashore – but you do need shoes which protect your toes for sailing.
• Camera, binoculars, sketchbook, a relaxing read.
• Any medication, spare spectacles. Seasickness tablets or pressure-point wrist bands (talk to your pharmacist)
• Your own logbook if you'd like to keep track of your sea miles
• Tech chargers (USB sockets are available in all the cabins) and waterproof cases for anything valuable

N.B. BOATS HAVE LIMITED STORAGE SPACE SO PLEASE LIMIT YOURSELF TO ONE SOFT BAG OR RUCKSACK  (NOT SUITCASES)

The Way To A Crew's Heart... I had to take the opportunity to shout out to Morag Slesser of Provident, easily the best cook on the west of Scotland fleet. As occasional crew I can say eating one meal has us excitedly looking forward to the next, and there's the baking too !! If Morag isn't available for a trip she makes sure a more than capable cook steps in for her, Provident crews and guests are always well provided for !

Best, Gavin (Morag on the helm of Provident, a multi talented person.)

I have been back 2 days and haven’t stopped thinking about the holiday. Provi is lovely and the crew were amazing. Steve and Morag obviously love their boat, Jamie the mate was very helpful and Guilio’s cooking was fantastic. Outstanding moments include the pod of dolphins playing alongside, and the sail from Arklow to Dublin. Force 5-6 and a smooth sea made for an exciting experience. I can’t wait to go again but I need to save up….

Can’t think what I’d improve to be honest, except maybe to point out to potential customers that Provi is run in an eco friendly manner and the food was more veggie based than a committed carnivore would like. Didn’t worry us at all as it was so tasty, but it might worry some people. 

Sharon May 24

Fantastic trip. Crew were so keen to help and teach. They clearly loved sailing. Food was outstanding. Restaurant standard. Learnt so much. Had so much fun. Fellow passengers were so friendly. The Highlands and islands were stunning. Would highly recommend.

Tracy Summer 2023

Although we didn't manage to get to the hoped for destination (St. Kilda) we fully understood before we got on board that the weather would dictate the direction of travel. The crew were amazing and Morag's cooking is outstanding. A lovely old sailing boat and would highly recommend it to others.

Virginia Summer 2023