Off-Season Escapes

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Oban

Your voyage begins in the bustling port town of Oban, a gateway to Scotland’s western isles. Oban is well-connected by rail, bus, and road, making it an accessible starting point whether you’re traveling from within Scotland or further afield. For those arriving early, explore the town’s rich maritime heritage with a visit to Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest whisky producers, or climb to McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views over the bay. The fresh seafood at the harbourfront restaurants is a must-try, offering a taste of the local catch.

Once aboard the historic Provident, a 100-year-old gaff-rigged Brixham sailing trawler, you’ll be welcomed by the crew who will introduce you to life on a traditional sailing vessel. Following a safety briefing and settling into your cosy cabin, you’ll cast off to begin your adventure through some of Scotland’s most stunning sea lochs.

Along the Way

Sailing through Loch Linnhe, Loch Aline, and Loch Buie, you’ll experience the untamed beauty of the Morvern Peninsula and the Isle of Mull. These waters are rich with wildlife—keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, porpoises playing in the wake, and the occasional majestic sea eagle soaring overhead.

Step ashore at Port Ramsay on the tranquil Isle of Lismore, a haven for walkers and history enthusiasts. A gentle walk will take you to the Tirefour Broch, an Iron Age marvel offering breathtaking views over the island and beyond. For a more leisurely break, visit the charming Lismore Café for a slice of home-baked cake and a warm welcome before rejoining the ship at Achracroish.

Evenings aboard Provident are as enchanting as the days—imagine the soft creak of the rigging as you anchor in a secluded cove, sharing stories over a hearty meal and watching the sun set over the water.

Arriving back in Oban

As the voyage draws to a close, Provident returns to Oban. Take a moment to reflect on your journey and the bonds formed with your fellow sailors. If time allows before your departure, visit the local galleries and shops to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy one last seafood feast by the harbour.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

In September, the sailing conditions in these sheltered lochs are typically mild, with calm seas and steady winds, ideal for first-time sailors and those looking for a relaxing experience. The cooler temperatures and crisp air provide perfect visibility for enjoying the landscapes and spotting wildlife. Expect occasional rain showers, typical of the Scottish Highlands, which only add to the area’s dramatic beauty.

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