Tips on Scotland cruising vacations
THE SHIPPING NEWS
What to pack


Advice for families
Itinerary tips
Emma MacGregor at our supplier Hebrides Cruises: “Small ship cruising is about exploring the wilder parts of Scotland but don’t worry, it can be done at whatever pace suits you. We feel the best thing we offer is our knowledge of the hundreds of remote anchorages and places to land on and explore. Mingulay is a favourite spot of mine, it has everything! – The dramatic cliffs and stacks on the western side, with many thousands of seabirds. It has one of the best beaches in the western isles, an incredibly and interesting history with the ruins of the old village. Stunning sunsets and watching the vast colony of seals coming ashore on the beach each evening is also a favourite!”
Accessibility on board
Safety advice
Best time to go
Health & safety
TRAVEL SAFELY ON A SCOTTISH CRUISE
Health
If you are prone to sea sickness, do bring some tablets with you, along with natural remedies such as ginger tea.
Don’t underestimate how much sun you might catch, even if it is overcast. So always bring a good factor sun cream, and an eco friendly one too, especially if you are planning on swimming in the water. These are sensitive marine environments.
Similarly bring good quality, protective sunglasses. Even if it is cold, the sun’s rays can be harsh on water.
Check with your tour operators about any mobility issues. Sometimes there might be narrow stairwells to negotiate on board. Boarding dinghies or going down narrow staircases below deck, for example, can be physically challenging for some.
Midges are a pest, but you won’t look silly with a net over your head in the evening. Everyone does it. While you are moving on the water, they are rarely a problem, but when you go for a walkabout on land, early evening is the worst time, especially if it is damp and there is little wind. The worst season is June, July and August; check this Midge Forecast website for further details. There is an anti-midge product, called Smidge, and if anyone knows how to protect against them, the Scots should.
If you are out walking on land during your cruise, you do need to be wary of ticks. They carry Lyme disease and other nasties, so best to take precautions. Read this guide for top tick tips.
If you are swimming, be aware that blue green algae can be a problem during the warmer months so adhere to any warning signs.
safety
Always wear your buoyancy aid or life jacket when instructed. You don’t always have to wear it on deck, although of course if you can’t swim it is advisable. However, they are always recommended if you are going out on dinghies or sea kayaks for trips ashore. And ensure it is fastened properly, especially with children, who can slip out of them easily.
If you are sea kayaking, beware of a change in weather conditions. A good rule of thumb is to stick within 400m of the shore or your boat.
If you are taking time off the water and going for a serious hike on the likes of Skye or Lewis and Harris, don’t underestimate how much the weather conditions can drastically change. Always tell a member of the crew where you are going. One of the most common causes for rescue on the Scottish hills is hypothermia usually brought about by exhaustion and injury. So make sure you have enough food and water, the right layers and a shelter. The Mountaineering Council of Scotland is a font of knowledge on all things safety.
Scotland cruising vacations travel advice
TIPS FROM OUR TRAVELLERS
We have selected some of the most useful Scotland cruising vacations travel advice that our guests have provided over the years to help you make the very most of your vacation – and the space inside your suitcase.
St Kilda, Outer Hebrides Cruise, Scotland
Cruise to St Kilda, Monachs, Outer Hebrides and Small Isles
Hebrides cruise, The Sounds of Mull, Luing, Shuna and Jura
Cruise the Sounds of the Hebrides: Mull, Luing, Jura, Shuna
Wildlife sailing vacation in Scotland
Extraordinary wildlife above and below the waves
St Kilda and the Outer Hebrides cruise, Scotland
Scottish Cruise to St Kilda and the Outer Hebrides
Skye and the Small Isles sailing vacation
Sail Scotland's Small Isles and visit spectacular Skye
Scotland private charter sailing vacations
Private Charter a small ship around the Scottish Islands
Scotland West Coast cruise, Skye and the Small Isles
Scottish Vacation to Skye and the Small Isles | Cruise
Scottish traditional cruise, 4 days
Short break cruise in Argyll on the west coast of Scotland
Southern Hebrides and Sea Lochs of Argyll cruise
A Scottish cruise to the Islands of the inner Hebrides
Skye and the Inner Hebrides cruise, Scotland
A unique cruise to the Isle of Skye and the Inner Hebrides
Hebrides short break cruise, Scotland
Scottish small cruise with a Taste of the Hebrides
South Argyll cruise in Scotland, history and nature
Historic Villages & Gardens of South Argyll Scottish Cruise
Outer Hebrides and Shiant Isles cruise, Scotland
A magical cruise wandering through the Outer Hebrides
Skye and the Small Isles cruises, Scotland
Scottish Cruise to Skye and the Small Isles in the Hebrides
Whisky and wildlife sailing vacation in Scotland
Malt Whisky and Wildlife Cruise to Mull, Jura and Islay