sailscotland 2020

out of the blue ocean rising over 200m are the breeding ground to ocean wandering sea birds such as fulmar and kittiwake. During the summer months it is not unusual to find basking sharks feeding in the small Sounds between the island, where plankton is rich in the calmer waters. Heading to the East anchor in the small bay, where paradise beckons. Ashore, above the tide line the large colony of seals lounge on the white sand, fringed by green machair hardly disturbed by the intrusion of man. A good walk to the top of the cliffs offer magnificent views over Barra Head and the islands to the North. This gem of an island really does have it all for perfection and seclusion; a real must for the serious cruiser. Shiants The Shiant Isles make a perfect stopover if you are sailing across the Minch between Skye and the Outer Hebrides and are well worth the visit. Here, sea birds come in their thousands to breed over the summer months, Fulmar, Puffins,

Razorbill and Guillemot are most numbered and easiest to see from the bay as they sit and feed from the sand eels below. A good walk up the hill passes remains of the old black houses with promises of great views across the Minch. Loch Nevis This long and deep sea loch offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the West coast and when approaching down the Sound of `Sleat there are magnificent views of the Small Isles and Skye. Inverie is the most popular anchorage in Loch Nevis, both for its views and pub, but on windy days, I like to anchor at Loch Tarbet, a small indentation off the loch on the south side. A short walk takes you up and over the hill to absolutely stunning views over Loch Morar.

Nikki Afford Bessie Ellen www.bessie-ellen.com

 Loch Nevis Skye © Venturesail

 Puffins on Treshnish © Clare Kendall

 Bessie Ellen Sailing the Hebrides near Ardnamurchan © Nick Brooks

sail scotland 2020

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