Island Hopping on a Heritage Ship!

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Mallaig

Nestled on Scotland’s dramatic west coast, Mallaig is a bustling harbour town brimming with maritime charm. Easily accessible by road, rail, and ferry, it’s a gateway to the Scottish Isles. For those arriving early, enjoy a visit to the Mallaig Heritage Centre to uncover the town’s fishing and railway history, or take a scenic stroll along the harbour to watch fishing boats unloading their catch.

Once aboard Provident, the 100-year-old gaff-rigged Brixham sailing trawler, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew. After settling into your cabin, you’ll receive a safety briefing and an introduction to life aboard this historic vessel. Then, it’s time to hoist the sails and head into the open waters of the Inner Hebrides.

Along the Way

Your journey promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and traditional sailing. Sailing west of Mull, we’ll explore the pristine beaches of Coll, where golden sands meet turquoise waters. Weather permitting, we’ll visit the Treshnish Isles, a wildlife haven home to puffins, guillemots, and seals. If conditions allow, we’ll land on Staffa, where the mesmerising basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave echo with the sound of the sea.

Cruising the southwest coast of Mull offers the chance to discover secluded bays, perfect for a beach barbecue under the setting sun. Look out for dolphins, porpoises, and perhaps a minke whale as we navigate these biodiverse waters. Each day brings new vistas, from rugged cliffs to tranquil coves, all framed by the dramatic backdrop of Scotland’s mountains.

Arriving in Oban

Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban offers a warm welcome as your voyage concludes. Take time to visit McCaig’s Tower, a historic monument offering panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands. Sample world-class seafood at a harbourfront restaurant or explore the town’s vibrant shops and galleries. Oban’s transport links make onward travel convenient, whether you’re heading home or continuing your adventure.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

August in the Inner Hebrides offers long days and generally mild weather, with steady winds ideal for sailing. While conditions can vary, this time of year typically provides calm seas, perfect for those new to traditional sailing. The summer months also bring increased chances to spot marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

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