Springtime Island Hopping: The Firth of Lorne

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Setting Sail from Oban

Nestled on Scotland’s west coast, Oban is a vibrant harbour town known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” With excellent transport links by train, bus, and car, getting here is a breeze. If you arrive a day early, take time to explore the local attractions. Wander along the waterfront for fresh seafood, visit McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views, or immerse yourself in maritime history at the Oban War & Peace Museum. Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest producers of single malt whisky, offers a fascinating tour for those who appreciate fine spirits.

Once you step aboard the 100-year-old gaff-rigged Brixham sailing trawler, Provident, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the experienced and friendly crew. After a thorough safety briefing, you’ll set sail into the picturesque waters of the Firth of Lorne.

Along the Way

This voyage takes you through the scenic and culturally rich waters surrounding Oban. With 5 days to explore, possible destinations include:

Lismore Island: Known for its lush greenery and striking limestone geology, Lismore is a haven for walkers and history buffs. Stroll past ancient ruins like Castle Coeffin or simply soak in the tranquil landscapes.

The Garvellach Islands: These remote and rugged isles are steeped in history, with beehive monastic cells dating back over 1,000 years. As you sail past, feel the mystique of this ancient spiritual site while marvelling at the dramatic cliffs formed from some of the world’s oldest rocks.

Easdale Island: A gem of industrial heritage, Easdale is famed for its slate quarries and as the quirky host of the World Stone Skimming Championships. The clear waters around the island beckon for a refreshing dip—if you’re feeling brave!

Wildlife enthusiasts can keep an eye out for seals basking on rocky shores, otters darting through kelp forests, and seabirds like puffins and guillemots. With luck, you might even spot dolphins or a minke whale.

Arriving back in Oban

Returning to Oban, you’ll have the chance to reflect on your journey and the unique experiences you’ve shared with your fellow sailors. Before you depart, consider indulging in a final seafood feast or taking home a bottle of Oban’s signature whisky as a memento of your time in Scotland.

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

April in the Firth of Lorne often brings cool but pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures averaging 8–12°C. Spring breezes provide ideal sailing conditions for newcomers and experienced sailors alike. The relatively sheltered waters ensure a comfortable experience while offering breathtaking views of Scotland’s wild 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