Our new flexible booking conditions include a 7-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.
TRIP OVERVIEW
Tour Highlights
Explore the breathtaking scenery of Scotland's Isle of Skye and Small Isles on this incredible liveaboard swimming holiday
Complete a combination of crossings and coastal swims around this wilder area of Scotland
Take the chance to try your hand at crewing on a traditional tall ship
Enjoy a week of living on board the majestic Lady of Avenel tall ship, travelling to our destinations in a unique and sustainable way
Enjoy plenty of time off the ship to take in the natural beauty and unique culture of this 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 ships deck to even trying your hand at getting involved with the crewing of 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 daily swim distance of around 4 km (split over a minimum of two swims) prior to the start of the trip. No sailing experience is required, however, the ship’s crew are happy for you to assist with on-board 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. 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. We sail when the winds are favourable, meaning a degree of flexibility is required as to when we may sail out.
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Day 7
Map
Trip Schedule
Trip Information
Getting There
Option 1: Flights From Glasgow to Barra
Option 2: Trains and Ferries
Practical Information
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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
Our new flexible booking conditions include a 7-day refund guarantee and free trip changes.