Is Sailing in Scotland cold, wet and windy?
Myths and reality.
Yes it can be all three at once but the reality is ten minutes later the sun is out and then you will really understand why sailing in Scotland is so special.
Let’s explore it in more detail.
Is it cold sailing in Scotland?
We never go sailing in Scotland in Winter as we do realise that is beyond the pale. So our Scottish Sailing season is from April to October when the sun has strength and the Gulf Stream, from the Gulf of Mexico, keeps the Western Isles warmer than you might expect.
Yes it can be cool or cold on the water anywhere in the UK, not just Scotland. All our sailing ships have heating if it is required. In addition we have written an excellent article on clothing to keep you warm, check it out here.
Is it wet sailing in the Western Isles?
Yes and no, most of the rain in Western Scotland during the sailing season is caused by the condensation of the water in air that is being lifted and cooled below its dew point as it ascends the mountains. So when you are at sea level you may see a lot of rain on the mountains to the east of you but it might well be dry where you are.
There is a brilliant Met Office article on the climate of Western Scotland here, (It is where I got my information.)
It is also good to note that we sail on the drier months of the year, the driest being May and June.
See my article on ‘Is it really that wet?’
Is it Windy?
Why would you go sailing in Scotland if there is no wind? Clearly you don’t want to go in the windiest months of the year, November to March but equally you can get strong winds at any time of year. The beauty of sailing in Scotland’s Western Isles is there is always an island or deep loch to take advantage of and shelter from too much wind.
A couple more myths to explain.
Will I get bitten to death by midges?
No, definitely not. Midges don’t travel far from their homes and not across salt water. As midges are most active in low-light conditions, like dawn and dusk, it is best to stay afloat at such times. Luckily these happen to coincide with the fantastic meals you will have onboard.
Is it difficult to join a voyage in the Western Isles?
No, but you might need to allow sensible travel time if you live in the South of England or from overseas.
Most of our voyages start from either Oban or Mallaig which you can take a train to from Glasgow or Edinburgh, but Glasgow is best.
Glasgow is best because you can get there by coach, train or plane. I prefer Glasgow to Edinburgh, it just feels more friendly and has heaps of culture to explore. I’m waiting for another chance to visit the Rennie MackIntosh School of Art when it’s restoration has been finished.
So why is Sailing in Scotland so popular?
If we have overcome the problems let’s look at why sailing in the Western Isles of Scotland is so popular.
Stunning Natural Scenery
There is so much to see and around every headland or island another amazing Scottish landscape opens up before you. No long car rides between beautiful places, at sea it is all magnificent.
Abundant Wildlife
The best wildlife in Scotland is in the Western Isles, at sea you can see Minke Whales and sightings of Humpback Whales are increasing. Plus the usual dolphins, seals and if you are lucky you might see otters. Not so much on land but in the air are Sea Eagles, Puffin, Guillemots, and thousands of Gannet. Keeping a good lookout has another reward when you sail in Scotland, take your binoculars with you or borrow those onboard.
Long Daylight Hours in Summer
As we all know the further north you go in summer the longer the daylight and this makes for long days sailing in Scotland and more opportunities to explore ashore.
Remote and Unspoiled Locations
St Kilda is the obvious remote location to explore and very interesting it is too, but there are literally hundreds of other amazing islands to explore. The Small Isles, Rhona, Islay, Jura and an endless list of lochs that are almost inaccessible by land.
Rewarding Sailing Conditions
When you sail from one great location to another and you have been part of the sailing team, your daily accomplishment makes a warm glow of satisfaction and your sleep at night will be like a new born baby. Perhaps I exaggerate a bit there but I hope you get my drift.
See all our Sailing in Scotland voyages.
“Experience the thrill of sailing in Scotland’s Western Isles, enjoying stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and rewarding conditions.”
