Eye of the Wind Greenock - Oban EYE24/29

Embark	Disembark	Vessel	Duration	Voyage No
Sat 03-08-2024, 19:00Greenock, Scotland	Sat 10-08-2024, 10:00Oban, Scotland	Eye of the Wind	7 Nights	EYE24/29

Voyage Description

Sabbatical - Setting Sail into a Rejuvenated Future

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Greenock

Embark on a memorable sailing journey from Greenock, a historic port city nestled at the River Clyde’s mouth. Renowned for its rich maritime heritage, Greenock offers a glimpse into Scotland’s seafaring past. As you set sail from here, the Firth of Clyde opens up, presenting a scenic vista of sprawling waters and lush landscapes.

Along the Way

Your voyage along the Scottish west coast is a parade of natural wonders and historic sites. Glide past the craggy cliffs and witness the diverse wildlife – keep an eye out for seals basking on rocky outcrops and dolphins playfully breaking the water’s surface. You’ll sail through the charming tributaries and around picturesque islands, each with its own story. The views of the rugged Highlands from the sea are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of this storied landscape. Evenings are spent anchored in serene coves or docked at quaint ports, where you can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and starlit skies.

Arriving in Oban

Your journey culminates in the vibrant seaside town of Oban, often hailed as the gateway to the Hebrides. This charming locale, with its bustling harbour and local seafood delicacies, invites exploration. Should you have an extra day here, consider visiting the iconic Oban Distillery to taste the local whisky or explore the ancient ruins of Dunollie Castle, perched dramatically over the bay. The town also serves as a perfect starting point for trips to the nearby islands, each with its unique allure.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

August in the Scottish west coast brings a mix of weather – from calm, bright days to brisk, breezy ones. Expect moderate seas, ideal for a sailing adventure that’s exhilarating yet comfortable. The region’s capricious weather adds an element of surprise, making each day’s sailing a unique experience.

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.

Start & End Port

Greenock, Scotland

Maybe is normally in the James Watts Dock

Greenock

Greenock is a historic industrial town and port beside the Firth of Clyde, some 25 miles west of Glasgow.

Art and poetry.

Greenock was first of all a fishing community that become the site of the first dock on the Clyde in 1711. The town’s long maritime history is celebrated at the Custom House Museum.

Much of the west end of Greenock retains its impressive Victorian buildings, not least the 245-foot Victoria Tower which remains incomplete.

Other attractions include McLean Museum and Art Gallery and the Old West Kirk, which dates from 1591 and features stained glass by artists such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti.

Robert Burns lover Mary Campbell (Highland Mary) is buried in Greenock Cemetery.

Adam Purser

Oban, Scotland

For joining your vessel in Oban, the North Pier in the map shown below will be the best place to meet the crew. Your vessel will either be tied up alongside the wall, or out at anchor. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s number found in your confirmation in case of any problems on the day.

Oban: Gateway to the Highlands and Isles

Situated on the west coast of Scotland, Oban is a vibrant seaside town known as the “Gateway to the Highlands and Isles.” With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and renowned seafood, Oban offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that attracts visitors from all over the world.

As you arrive in Oban, you’ll be greeted by the town’s iconic landmark, McCaig’s Tower, perched on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and mountains. Explore the charming streets lined with colourful buildings, browse the local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs, and indulge in the freshest seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants.

Oban is the perfect base for exploring the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Take a scenic drive along the stunning coastal roads, visit the historic castles such as Dunollie Castle and Dunstaffnage Castle, or embark on a hiking adventure in Glen Coe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic and awe-inspiring glens.

Getting to Oban is convenient, with various transportation options available. From Scotland, you can travel by train on the West Highland Line, which offers a picturesque journey from Glasgow to Oban. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of lochs, mountains, and charming villages along the way.

If you’re coming from southern England, you can reach Oban by car via the A82 and A85 roads. The drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including the enchanting Loch Lomond and the majestic Rannoch Moor.

For those preferring to fly, the nearest airports to Oban are Glasgow Airport and Edinburgh Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a train to complete your journey to Oban.

By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to your voyage, where an unforgettable adventure awaits you.

Kit List

What to pack for a sailing holiday on the Eye of the Wind

Working Language on Board is German and English

Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind

Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind

What is Included

Sailing Instruction
All meals to include refreshments throughout the day
Duvet, pillow and sheets
Hand towels

What is not Included

Waterproof jackets and trousers
Alcoholic drinks but there is a bar on board
Any entry visas required

What to Bring

Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.

Eye of the Wind does not supply waterproof jackets and salopette type trousers. Please bring your own waterproof clothing.
A mix of warm and wind proof clothing.
Lots of thin layers is better than one thick layer in cold destinations.
In tropical countries - long sleeves and long trousers to protect you from the sun
Footwear on board needs a good grip and soft soles- the decks are wood or steel.
Ashore stout, waterproof walking boots are best if you are in remote places.
Eye of the Wind has electric sockets in all the cabins 240 V
Cameras, spare batteries, chargers if you need them
Binoculars are handy for bird watching etc.
Suntan lotion, hats, sunglasses
Dont forget any regular medication, persciption glasses and spare
Euros for bar bill
Passport, travel insurance, tickets etc
To get ashore is usually by dinghy so be prepared to get wet feet. Rubber boots or quick drying sandals - depending on the location.
The ship provides hand towels but please bring a beach towel
snorkel and mask for caribbean if you like snorkelling (travel tip: swimming goggles pack up smaller than a facemask)
Bring insect repellant for Caribbean as can get mosquitos ashore in evening (rare at anchor)
ear plugs can be handy

Electricity

All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.

There is no internet on board whilst at sea.

Review

A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.
John, Tortola to Bermuda

Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"
F Coutreau

What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.

Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!
Andrea

Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:

COMPETENT and KIND

And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure
Susan

Vessel Gallery

With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website.