Explore the Inner Hebrides

 

An Introduction to Grayhound

GRAYHOUND is one of the largest sailing luggers in the world today. She was built in Cornwall in 2012 and has a 20m long hull, is 33m overall and a canvas area of 470 square meters. The original plans were those of a three masted lugger from 1776. Luggers from that time were built for speed and swiftness ideal for privateering, smuggling…or for hunting the latter! “Pirate hand-break turns” and cannon firing is always on the menu on Grayhound!

As voyage crew you do not have to have any prior sailing experience or knowledge to join on Grayhound. A positive attitude and a wish for adventure is all! Our experienced crew will make sure that you comfortably and eagerly hoist the sails, make fast the ropes, participate in the manoeuvres, steer the ship and ready the anchor. It is all hands-on and you will be a crucial part of getting to our desired destination. You will learn fast while enjoying the feeling of freedom the ship offers as you get humbled by the sea. 

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Departing from Mallaig

You join (and later, leave) Grayhound in Mallaig. This bustling port town welcomes travellers with open arms, encapsulating the warmth and rugged beauty of Scotland’s west coast. If you’re able to, we recommend arriving a day early in Mallaig to explore the area. For those yearning for an added touch of the wild, the ferry to the remote Knoydart Peninsula beckons. Inverie, home to the UK mainland’s most secluded pub, The Old Forge, awaits – where a pint of ale isn’t just a drink, but a toast to adventures to come!

After joining the ship and getting acquainted with Grayhound, her crew and your fellow sailing guests, you set sail! Grayhound’s crew, warm-hearted and experienced, will be your guides throughout this adventure. They are not only skilled sailors but also passionate about teaching you the art of sailing a Cornish Lugger. Expect an engaging sailing experience, with opportunities to hone your traditional sailing skills as you navigate the inlets and bays. You’ll gain valuable insights into the winds and tides, all while enjoying delicious vegetarian cuisine against the backdrop of awe-inspiring views.

Along the way

The weather will determine the route to the Isle of Skye, guiding you west or northwest. Should you head west, you’ll have the chance to visit the island of Rum, a natural wonder. Depending on the conditions, you might also reach Talisker Bay Beach or even consider a road trip to Dunvegan Castle.

If your path leads you northeast, you’ll traverse Kyle Rhea and Loch Alsh, passing beneath the Skye Bridge to reach the Inner Sound. Here, you’ll find the isles of Scalpay and Raasay, along with the intriguing ‘Old Man of Storr’ rock formation, visible from the sea.

Arriving in Skye

Once you drop anchor at Skye, we hope you’ll have a day or so to explore. Between sips of Talisker whisky straight from the distillery and hikes through the Tolkien-esque landscapes of the Quiraing, there’s no end to Skye’s allure. The town of Portree provides a quaint counterpoint, perfect for a seafood lunch and perhaps even catching a local ceilidh tune wafting across the harbour.

Come evening, being anchored near Skye is an experience in itself—sunset turning the ocean into molten gold, and maybe the distant strum of a fiddle tying the whole experience together. Whether you’re hoisting sails or clinking glasses, you’ll feel an indelible connection to the island and a lineage of sailors stretching back centuries. Skye leaves you with windswept hair, a full heart, and a thirst for further adventures on the open sea.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

In August, the sea around Mallaig typically enjoys temperate and relatively stable weather conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C and 20°C. While summer showers can occasionally grace the journey, clear days often prevail, presenting a mix of sun and cloud. The seas around the islands are generally moderate during this month. However, sailors should remain vigilant for the occasional brisk wind and changing tides, which can produce choppy waters. The combination of summer warmth and the unpredictable charm of the Scottish seas ensures both a pleasant and invigorating sailing 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.

What to pack for a sailing holiday on Grayhound

What is included

• Duvets, linen, pillows
• Sailing instruction
• All meals on board (professional chef)
• Tea, coffee, biscuits, fruit and day time snacks.
• Night watch snacks (if applicable)
• You don't have to do the cleaning, but help with the washing up is always appreciated.
• Waterproof and insulated jackets and trousers
• Life Jacket and safety equipment, we also have child automatic life jackets.
• Charging facilities for phones, cameras and tablets etc.

What is not included

• Towels
• Travel to joining port
• Tours, shore expeditions with any hire vehicle or local guide (optional & shared costs)
• Personal travel insurance See Topsail Insurance LINK
• There is no bar on board so you might like to bring a bottle or two of wine to enjoy with meals. You can also buy organic sailed cargo wine, red, white and rose onboard.

What to Bring

Don't forget, Grayhound is 108ft overall so she will not always fit into small yacht marinas and she will often have to anchor off in the bay or port. Be prepared to get into a small boat with your luggage and pack sensibly protecting any vulnerable items like cameras. Grayhound has waterproof and insulated flotation jackets and trousers on board which are very warm. In summer or hot locations you may wish to bring some lightweight waterproofs. Even in the Caribbean you can get tropical downpours or spray on deck when sailing in strong winds. A mobile phone so you can ring the ship in an emergency or if you are running late on joining day. Also it means we can contact you if we have to change the joining port for any reason. Grayhound's phone number will always be supplied with your balance confirmation e-mail. Shoes with a good grip for deck & aloft Rubber Boots or second pair of shoes for wet weather or getting in/out of dinghies Swim suit & beach towel. You are welcome to bring snorkel and mask - especially worth it in the Caribbean or Cape Verde. Suntan lotion & sunglasses - consider sunblock and lip salve protection in Canaries, Cape Verde, Trans Altantic, Caribbean. Sun hat / warm hat, scarves, gloves Clothes that dry quickly. Mix of warm, waterproof & windproof layers Small rucksack for going ashore Travel insurance documents/tickets Personal medicines/ spectacles Spending money/passport Camera/binoculars etc Phone chargers. 240 generator on board UK three pin sockets. We welcome musical instruments and you can plug in ipods or CDs into ships stereo. There are storage areas for each bunk . Please pack in a soft rucksack or bag. A torch is useful as a few baggage spaces are at the foot of bunks with reading light at other end. There is no alcohol to buy on board, so you are welcome to bring a bottle or two to drink with meals. If you decide to buy some on arrival You can also buy Grayhound t shirts, mugs and Breton tops from our ship's shop we accept pounds or euros.

 

Thank you so much to all the Grayhound crew for an unforgettable adventure. I cannot imagine a kinder and better crew with which to sail.

Caroline

Thanks all for a great time, I really enjoyed it. Fastest Channel crossing I have managed!

Barney

An unforgettable experience

Jonathon

We've had two idyllic sailing trips. One particularly fantastic day scrambling over big volcanic rocks down a deep craggy valley to a black sand beach with dramatically high cliffs. Grayhound was waiting, attracting attention because she's so beautiful and unique. Swimming out to her in the clear waters o the Atlantic rates as one of life's highlights.

Grayhound Guest

Fantastic, exhilarating and an honour to be on such a ship.

Des

Excellent company of genuine all round sailors. The wind in my face and the swell beneath. 5 stars for welcome, accommodation on board, safety, quality of sailing, food, skipper and crew.

Barry

Outstanding and unforgettable experience. Loved learning the lug rig, meeting the crew and other guests, playing an active role on board.

Charlie

Brilliant sail on an interesting boat with friendly and knowledgeable people.

Steve

Three masted lugger Grayhound is a unique sight and a joy to take photos of. Not only does she look very unusual as it is a rig not seen much now, she has a mission to deliver cargoes under sail, so she is the darling of the press. Photos from Classic Sailing customers, ships crew and professional photographers. We hope it gives a flavour of her sailing, life on board, the people that come, her beautiful sailing grounds and what it is like to live below decks.