What we offer

A refreshing holiday

Welcome on board our comfortable yacht under the care of a qualified skipper with 40 years of experience on the west coast of Scotland having covered about 73,000 miles. Most cruises run for a week giving 6 full days of sailing. We eat well, sleep well, have lots of fresh air and exercise and return at the end of the Cruise feeling extremely fit and healthy and mentally stimulated.
Each day is geared to suit the interests and ambitions of the crew. Some days may be strenuous and challenging – others relaxed and restful with a chance to swim, fish, or explore the many islands we visit.

More than just a holiday

One of the highlights in cruising is the team spirit which develops right from the start. Everyone shares in what has to be done – and enjoys it!
Evenings are the climax after a day’s sail – anchored in some charming spot, dining in style, sipping freshly brewed coffee and savouring After Eight Mints, appreciating a sunset whilst being far enough off-shore to avoid the dreaded midges.
For groups who request it, there is the opportunity during the Cruise to consider and discover the Christian answer to life in a setting which is stimulating, inspiring and challenging.

A superb cruising area

The west coast of Scotland is said to be one of the best cruising grounds in the world. The scenery comes alive when viewed from off shore. With the many islands, sea lochs and bays, there is always somewhere to shelter from any windy conditions to ensure a comfortable night. By yacht, it is possible to explore many islands which would be difficult and expensive to reach by public transport. We include some photographs to illustrate the magnificence of this coast.

Making the most of the Scottish weather

Scotland does not claim to vie with the Caribbean for sunshine or dry weather – but we are rarely short of wind! The summer of 1998 was generally declared to be disappointing, but we had good winds. Every cruise finished on a high note with an enthusiastic crew having sailed 200 to 300 miles within the week. 1999 proved to be equally encouraging and with better weather, one cruise logged 487 miles and the 2000 season was even better with good weather and good winds. Three cruises visited the Outer Isles and another three sailed as far north as the Summer Isles. In 2001, we included a cruise to St. Kilda and another to Northern Ireland. In 2002, a cruise with 6 boys made it to St. Kilda - and back! 2003 was a fantastic summer for hot sunny weather lasting right on to mid October. The final cruise (No. 19 on the News page) covered 508 miles with boys sun bathing on the deck at the Butt of Lewis on the 19th. October. By contrast, 2004 was rather wet and windy, but we still had a great time. 2005 generally had exceptionally good weather and 2006 was a mixture of good weeks and other weeks with gales and heavy rain. 2007 was generally a poor summer, but we had some splendid cruises with good weather in the Outer Hebrides whilst parts of England were being flooded.

Value for money

Discovery Cruising operates within a charitable Trust to run cruises during the school holidays for youth groups at very keen prices. Cruises for adults are offered at keen rates. Once on board, very little spending money is required as all meals and numerous snacks, soft drinks, crisps and confectionery are included in the fee. Around Ł5 would cover postcards and a hot shower at a port of call.

Tuition

Discovery Cruising is not an RYA teaching establishment, but everyone is involved in sailing and steering the yacht and the skipper will be pleased to encourage crew who wish to learn the art of navigation .