Sailing Scotland The Paps of Jura holiday travel.

Scotland is Brits top choice for sailing holidays

Research by Borrow A Boat finds Scotland the destination most Brits want to go on a sailing holiday in the UK

Scotland and the Scottish Isles voted the region most Brits want to go sailing or boating in the UK.
21% of 2,000 respondents voted for Scotland and the Scottish Isles.
Visit Scotland is celebrating ‘Year of Coasts and Waters 2020-21.’

Water is the lifeblood of Scotland, with a long and proud maritime history of both shipbuilding and sailing. Some of Scotland’s earliest ancestors lived on Lochs in the Neolithic era, and Vikings used the seas to control the islands of Orkney, Shetland, and the Hebrides. Scottish coasts also played an important role during both the Napoleonic and World Wars, and the Cutty Sark, one of the fastest ships of her day, was built on Scottish waters in 1869.

It is this rich history, combined with outstanding scenery and an abundance of marine life, that makes Scotland the number one destination Brits want to visit for a sailing holiday – according to a recent survey of 2,000 people in the UK conducted by Borrow A Boat.

Matt Ovenden, CEO of Borrow A Boat says: “It is no surprise that Visit Scotland’s theme for 2020-21 is ‘coasts and waters’, as Scotland is a real bucket-list destination for avid sailors and new boaters alike.

“With 800 offshore islands, lakes, lochs, rivers, and seas, Scotland has plenty of sailing options for keen boaters to explore. There are many sheltered sailing routes along the Forth of Clyde for first-time sailors, but we would recommend that even the most experienced sailors hire a skipper just to sit back and take in the views.
“We have put together this handy guide to boating in Scotland and included our favourite boats in the region, to help you plan a seamless trip. With Borrow A Boat, you can choose from a variety of vessels and berths, with or without a captain, for travel dates that suit you.”

Boating Guide to Scotland

Sail the Forth of Clyde

One third of all Scottish yachts are based in and around the Clyde, a wonderfully sheltered cruising area with access to Scottish seas and lochs, boasting ten of the best large marinas in the UK. The Clyde provides the perfect opportunity to explore the network of lochs, canals, and seas that Scotland has to offer.

The Tramontane, a spacious yacht offering three large double cabins for you and your guests, is the perfect vessel perfect for exploring both Scotland’s coast and lochs. The yacht can be boarded at Largs, a convenient 35-minute drive from Glasgow airport.

Immerse yourself in wildlife and nature

Home to over 90,000 species, Scotland has an abundance of wildlife that draws visitors from across the globe. Scottish waters are among the finest in Europe for spotting dolphins, whales, and porpoises. Seals are also commonplace around Scottish coasts, with around a third of all grey seals in the world breeding at colonies in Scotland. A trip between July and September is the best time to spot seals on the shore.

Jump onboard the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey to sail around the Isles of the Clyde with ease, spotting the vast display of wildlife on offer as you go. Three cabins can cater for you and your guests overnight to embark on longer journeys, and a skipper can be hired for less experienced sailors.

On the lookout for Nessie

Shrouded in mystery, the Scottish Isles have a rich history of mythical creatures, from giants living in Fingal’s cave on the Isle of Staffa, to shape-shifting selkies that transform from seals to beautiful maidens. The most famous of them all is the Loch Ness Monster, known as Nessie.

Whilst you may not see any of Scotland’s mythical creatures on your voyage, you are guaranteed to see an abundance of native wildlife, awe-inspiring landscapes, and spectacular views.

Board the Orcades to cruise the best and most beautiful of Scotland’s West Coast, fitted with its own 5-metre rib to explore shallow waters and caves. The Orcades can house up to 6 guests and is available for private charter for families, groups of friends and corporate entertaining.

Lagoon Luxury Catamaran

For the adventurer and wildlife enthusiast, there are some stunning views to take in around Scotland’s coastal areas. Just outside Edinburgh’s city centre, charter a luxury catamaran for 10 guests, with captain.

The boat takes you and your guests on a full or half-day charter for a tour of some beautiful and historical locations including the famous Forth Bridges, Inchcolm Island and Blackness Castle. This trip is also great for wildlife spotters. Expect to see a plethora of wildlife including seals, porpoises, puffins, and many types of seabirds on your trip.