Cruising The West Coast of Scotland

The area between the 120 mile run of the Outer Hebrides and the Scottish mainland is scenic, largely sheltered from ocean swell and provides varied and rewarding cruising.

The nature of Cruising on the West Coast of Scotland is largely influenced by the 120 mile run of the Outer Hebrides, from Barra Head in the south to the Butt of Lewis in the north.  The islands are exposed to the Atlantic on their western side but provide shelter on the eastern which results in some of the most

Largely sheltered from ocean swell, there are nearly 40 inhabited islands which provide a matrix which allows passages not just north-south along the coast but also east-west between the Outer Hebrides and the mainland. Safe and comfortable sailing is thus often possible in conditions which in the North Sea or Channel would leave the cruising sailor disconsolately in harbour.

Cruising is different in other respects and this year's  seminar aims to suggest ways of adapting to a slightly different style of cruising, identify the not to be missed places and provide practical advice on how to get to the West Coast both on the water and by public transport.

Celtic Seminar at CA House – Saturday 25^th January 10.45 - 17.00 - (Registration from 10.00)

Provisional Programme

Registration from 10.00

The Speakers

I am delighted that the speakers include Bob Bradfield of Antares charts. If you haven't heard of Antares charts they are a source of 'unofficial' very large scale electronic charts and related pilotage information created by Bob.  To date they now cover 500 locations and not surprisingly he is an authority on the anchorages off the West Coast. Also speaking will be Boyd Holmes, past commodore of  the Royal Highland YC who has spent so long cruising the West Coast he is about to have a newly discovered rock named after him, Alan Kohler, Celtic Section member and veteran of the West Coast and Derek Lumb, Celtic Section Secretary.

It is now available to book on the CA website at £32 for members and £40 for non members including lunch. Go to events and click on  Book Events Online  
If you have any problems with booking please call the office on 0207 537 2828
Please note that bookings will close at 23.30 on the 19^th of January.