*These trips are not bookable online as they only run when the weather and tide allows. We will only know if a trip can run a maximum of one week prior*
Dawn
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, sea life spotter or just want to see some of Islay’s beautiful coastline, our dawn trips offer the chance to see some rare sights, while the sun comes up. You will also get the opportunity to learn a lot about the history and culture of Islay, even getting to see a 16th century castle.
Starting at Port Ellen Marina, we will take you along the south-east coast of Islay, where your Skippers will tell you about some of Islay’s history and heritage. You will then take in the three distilleries located on this area of the island- Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, learning a bit about each of them.
After this, we then carry on to Islay’s Special Area of Conservation which is only viewable from the sea. Here there is an abundance of wildlife including a large seal colony, red deer, lots of bird life and some of the best scenery the island has to offer. Sometimes we even spot dolphins and white-tailed eagles, and more rarely, basking sharks and minke whales.
If it is a clear morning, we will arrive in time to watch the sun rise, however we cannot guarantee this will be visible. Once we arrive, you’ll warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. Wrap up warm as mornings can be surprisingly chilly, especially before the sun is up.
The times and days for these trips will vary over the season and are heavily weather permitting. We will announce the days and times via our social media weekly, or just give a ring for updates.
Dusk
For our dusk trips we follow a similar journey to that of the Mull of Oa trips, a dramatic and rugged part of Islay’s coastline. Leaving Port Ellen, we head west passing beautiful hidden beaches. Then we head towards Beinn Mhor, the highest hill on the Oa peninsula, and Dun Athad, a dramatic headland. Here if we are lucky we may see Golden Eagles, Chough and Raven soar high round the cliffs above us. There is also a small seabird colony near here where Kittiwakes breed.
You will get a unique view of the American Monument, a stone memorial tower which stands 20m high on the 130m high cliff top.
If it is a clear evening, we will arrive in time to watch the sun set below the sea, however we cannot guarantee this will be visible. Once we arrive, you’ll hear the pop of prosecco and enjoy a glass. Non-alcoholic options will also be available. Wrap up warm as evenings can be surprisingly chilly, especially once the sun has set.
The times and days for these trips will vary over the season and are heavily weather permitting. We will announce the days and times via our social media weekly, or just give a ring for updates.
**For the Dawn and Dusk trips, they are not bookable online due to being very weather dependent. We will only know if a trip can run a maximum of one week prior. We will announce trip dates and times weekly via social media or contact us directly to find out more details. Thank you**
