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TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
31 Jul - 06 Aug, 2022 |
Finished
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Tour Highlights
Explore the breathtaking scenery of Scotland's Isle of Skye and Small Isles on this incredible liveaboard swimming holiday
Try your hand at crewing on a traditional tall ship - the majestic Lady of Avenel - allowing you to reach remote destinations and secluded swim spots in a unique and sustainable way
Enjoy plenty of time off the ship to take in the natural beauty and unique culture of this wild corner of the world on hikes across the hills and beaches
Take part in a truly breathtaking expedition through some of the most stunning scenery in the British Isles - Scotland’s world-renowned Inner Hebrides. Basing ourselves around the Isles of Skye, Rum, Eigg and Muck and staying on board the 102-foot-tall ship, the ‘Lady of Avenel’, this swimming adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the dramatic landscapes of this picturesque corner of the world.
From craggy mountain tops to spectacular volcanic features, this tour takes some of the most beautiful parts of this collection of islands, including the spectacular Cuillin Hills. Our trip sees us exploring the lochs, sounds, islands, coves and skerries of the Inner Hebrides, while also providing an opportunity to experience an abundance of local wildlife.
This trip allows us to get to know the islands of the Inner Hebrides intimately, swimming in stunning lochs and enjoying wild coastal swims. We’ll journey to the islands on a more sustainable form of transport and enjoy freshly cooked meals in our downtime from our own onboard chef. From sunsets on the ship’s deck, to even trying your hand at crewing the Lady of Avenel, this truly is an epic expedition and an exciting opportunity for adventure swimming and sailing alike.
Who is this trip for?
This trip is made up largely of coastal, freshwater loch swimming, along with some crossings, including the crossing from Canna to Rum. Conditions will be challenging, yet extremely rewarding.
Swimmers should have a sound understanding and experience of swimming in strong sea conditions and be capable of completing the average swim distance of 2.5km. The average daily swim distance is around 4km (split over a minimum of two swims) prior to the start of the trip. Due to the nature of this trip, there is a minimum swimming speed of 30 min/km (40 min/mile).
We have given this trip a ‘Challenging’ grading. These trips are for experienced open water swimmers who want to push themselves.
No sailing experience is required, however, the ship’s crew are happy for you to assist with onboard duties as much or as little as you like.
What's included?
- Fully guided swimming holiday in The Isle of Skye and The Small Isles, Scotland
- Swim guides and full safety escort on all swims
- Six nights accommodation on board the Lady of Avenel tall ship
- Our very own on board chef
- All breakfasts
- All lunches
- All evening meals
What's not included?
- Travel to and from the start of the tour
Related Trips
Daily Itineraries
Part of the appeal of our Lady of Avenel trips is the unpredictability of the wild areas in which we will swim. We sail when the winds are favourable, meaning a degree of flexibility is required as to when we may sail out.
Please note that the below itinerary is an example of the swims that may take place during the course of your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances can vary according to local weather and sea conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilot will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will let you know swim plans as soon as possible. Sailing a tall ship by its nature brings the excitement of the elements.
Trip Schedule
Day 1
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Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Map
Location Summary
Trip Grading
Trip Information
Getting There
Accommodation
Travel Advice

Swimmer circling an outcrop in the Isle of Skye

Drone view of Isle of Skye swimmers

Swimmers with guide on paddleboard

Isle of Skye and the Small Isles - Scotland

Isle of Skye and the small Isles

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Magical, magical, magical! If you can only pick one Swimtrek, let this be the one. Don't be put off by the idea of cold water, this trip is amazing - from life on the boat, to the wonderful landscapes both above and below water and the cameraderie that it offers. I would do this trip again and again.
Hanlie S, UK - 2019 -
Brilliant, totally different from anything you can do at home. Saw dolphins & seals and explored coastlines with no one else in sight.
Andrew B, UK - 2019 -
To be on a sailing ship in the Scottish islands is a unique experience, swimming where no one else has swum, landing on deserted beaches, wildlife watching from the deck, the water might be cold but the rewards are outstanding.
Sally S, UK - 2019 -
A gem of a ship, and Scotland's truly spectacular scenery. Thank you!
Marion F, UK - 2018 -
A trip for real adventurers, with a passionate boat crew on the beautiful sailing boat The Lady of Avenel.
Ronja M-B, Switzerland - 2018
Book with Confidence
Our flexible booking conditions include a 14-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
Terms and Conditions apply.
To be the first to find out about our next Lady of Avenel trips - Join the mailing list.