Scotland cruising vacations travel advice

There is always a first aid kit on board and a fully trained first aider, often the skipper on these trips. Bring any special medicines with you especially as you may be in remote waters for several days.

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.

Scotland is blissfully safe, especially when on a small ship cruising vacation. Quite simply, always listen to the safety instructions from both crew and skipper. Boats can be very safe places as long as the rules are adhered to. So don’t touch ropes, lift levers or move booms unless you are instructed to.

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.

“Leave the smart clothes at home along with your mobile (signal so patchy it is frustrating, so unless essential best to forget it)! And settle into a different rhythm. Don't forget sunscreen and insect repellent for on shore - the midges can be fearsome! Read 'Para Handy' by Neil Munro for an insight into the atmosphere of the west highland ports and eccentric characters of the past” – Fiona Morrison

“I was a single passenger, I went with a certain amount of trepidation, but this was all put to one side by the first evening, all 10 of us gelled almost at once, and got on like a house on fire …The crew was marvelous, and nothing was too much trouble, with a number of elderly passengers on our cruise, all was taken in their stride. I will certainly be back.” – Gerald Peppiatt

“Go and enjoy. I am not a sailor but I loved it. I found sea bands (for travel sickness) really worked. I even read books while the boat was moving. Bring good walking boots, sun cream and insect repellant for the midges! The weather was amazing but even more so were the wonderful crew - Steve, our chef - so inventive and creative.” - Etta Geras

Don't forget your binoculars. Sensible shoes and a waterproof for when up on deck and the weather damp… The whole of our vacation was wonderful. The crew were all great, friendly and so helpful. The food was delicious every meal, and plentiful too! The cruise was the best way to see some of Scotland’s beautiful scenery and wildlife. The only fault, we wished it didn't have to end!” – Julie Clease

“Take ear plugs, your shipmates may snore! Be prepared to get involved with sailing procedures if the opportunity is there, it will increase your understanding and enjoyment of the trip. Make the most of the wildlife viewing,(including plankton !). Don't expect to lose weight, Colette produces wonderful meals and is disappointed if it doesn't get eaten!” – Andrew Swales