Scotland's greatest road trip... by sail.
Dreaming of experiencing Scotland’s famous North Coast 500 from an entirely different perspective?
This unique 35-day sailing expedition reimagines one of Britain’s most iconic road trips as an unforgettable voyage by sea. Beginning and ending in Largs, the expedition can be enjoyed in full or as three individual 10-day legs, allowing you to sail through the Hebrides, around Scotland’s wild northern coast, across to Orkney and back via the legendary Caledonian Canal.
Along the way you’ll discover dramatic sea cliffs, remote anchorages, colourful fishing villages and some of the finest sailing waters in Europe.
Aboard the beautifully equipped Deja Vue, you’ll become an active member of a small crew under the guidance of highly experienced skipper Fred Conradie, building practical sailing skills while exploring Scotland from a perspective few travellers ever experience.
2027 Expedition Options
- Full Expedition: 19 June – 23 July 2027 (35 days) – from £5,995
- Leg 1: Largs → Stornoway | 19–29 June – from £2,495
- Leg 2: Stornoway → Wick | 1–11 July – from £2,495
- Leg 3: Wick → Largs (via the Caledonian Canal) | 14–23 July – from £2,495
Why you'll love this adventure
- Personalised and expert tuition from accomplished skipper
- Perfect mix of amazing natural wonders and epic sailing
- Small group size of max 6 guest sailors
Dates
Itinerary
This sailing expedition begins in Largs, on Scotland's spectacular west coast, before setting off on a complete circuit inspired by the famous North Coast 500. Divided into three distinctive 10-day legs, the voyage can be enjoyed as one epic expedition or in shorter sections to suit your schedule.
The first leg explores the Hebrides en route to Stornoway. The second ventures around Cape Wrath and into the Orkney Islands before reaching Wick. The final leg returns south through the Moray Firth before transiting the world-famous Caledonian Canal, one of Britain's great inland waterways, completing an unforgettable circumnavigation of Scotland.
As with all true sailing adventures, the exact route is shaped by the wind, weather and the interests of the crew. Expect a rewarding mix of sheltered cruising, challenging tidal waters, offshore passages and memorable nights in some of Scotland's most beautiful harbours.
What's included
- Comfortable onboard accommodation with your own bunk and bedding
- All meals and non-alcoholic drinks while on board
- Hands-on sailing instruction and participation, including helming, sail trim, navigation and watchkeeping
- Guidance from a highly experienced professional skipper
- Safety equipment, including lifejacket
- Marina, harbour and canal fees for the yacht
- Waterproof sailing clothing available to hire if required
Not included
- Travel to and from the start and finish ports
- Meals and drinks ashore
- Sailing and travel insurance
- Personal spending money
- Optional shore excursions or entrance fees
Trip notes
Price
Min age
Accommodation
Life on board unfolds aboard a beautifully maintained Bavaria 46 built for comfortable offshore cruising. She offers generous living space, excellent sailing performance and all the equipment needed for Scotland’s varied waters, from exposed offshore passages to peaceful Highland anchorages.
Although the yacht accommodates eight people, guest numbers are limited to just six, ensuring everyone has plenty of space and the opportunity to play an active role on board. Four comfortable cabins, heating throughout, two heads with showers and a spacious saloon make her a welcoming home during your Scottish adventure.
Meals
This voyage is designed for you to take an active role – that means everyone will take turns in cooking (all the menus are planned already and step by step instructions given, so you don’t need to be a masterchef!)
Who is this trip for?
This expedition is ideal for adventurous travellers who want far more than a sightseeing cruise.
Suitable for:
- Solo travellers, couples and friends
- Beginners through to experienced sailors
- Anyone wanting to build offshore sailing skills
- Lovers of Scotland’s wild landscapes and maritime history
- Travellers seeking an active, small-group adventure
A reasonable level of fitness is recommended as you’ll be moving around a sailing yacht and participating in daily sailing activities.
Tour operator
There are few places as wild and unexplored as the open ocean. And if you’re going to explore it you’ll want to do so with an accomplished and experienced skipper alongside you at the helm. The skippers bringing these small group (max 6 guests) ocean voyages to life have at least half a million nautical miles under their belts so you’ll be learning from the best. Think small groups, amazing destinations and incredible ocean experiences. Whether you want the mileage for an RYA Ocean qualification, the thrill of taking a small boat to incredible destinations or the privilege of a sailing masterclass with hugely experienced skippers by your side, they’ll make it happen.
Enquire today
Sail Scotland Northcoast 500
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A most helpful, friendly and knowledgeable travel company!
Very helpful and provided lots of research material and excellent personal perspectives on the tall ship sailing trip I was interested in taking.— Martin
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