Sailing from Scotland to Ireland

Atlantic ocean

Oban > Jura > Port Ellen > Isle of Man > Dublin

This cruise takes us from Oban, a pretty harbour town in the middle of the Scottish Highlands, to one of the most attractive and vibrant European capitals: Dublin on the east coast of Ireland. Between the two contrasting ports of departure and arrival lies the Irish Sea. It is a sailing area that creates lasting holiday memories thanks to its beautiful coastal landscapes and impressive natural ocean world. Enjoy the quiet life onboard while you experience the ship as a place of tranquillity, where you can leave behind the flood of information and the hectic buzz of everyday life. 

Gesproken talen aan boord: Dutch, German, English, Swedish

 

This is where you will go on board: Oban, the 'Gateway to the Hebrides' 

Oban is a charming port city on the Scottish mainland. Inventions such as railways and steamboats once made the Victorian town the 'gateway to the Hebrides'. A visit to Oban's whisky distillery is well worthwhile. In the Oban Inn pub, even at lunchtime, the atmosphere is already lively and vibrant. Above the town stands McCraig's Tower, a replica of the Roman Colosseum and an unusual landmark of the city. Embarkation takes place at 19:00 hours. Afterwards, there will be dinner together in the comfortable lounge, where you'll quickly feel at home on the Eye of the Wind's deck and soon get to know your fellow sailors. From Berlin, Düsseldorf and other European airports, you can get to Glasgow Airport with direct flights; from there, you can continue to Oban by train, by bus or by people-carrier. We are happy to assist you with the individual planning of your arrival and departure. If you have any questions, please contact us in good time.

All hands on deck or all laid back 

The Eye of the Wind isn't a ship that likes to lie idle in the harbour for too long, so it is time to cast off the lines the next day. After receiving safety instructions and an introduction to sailing from the ship's crew, you'll soon be able to take part in the sailing yourself. As hands-on assistance on deck is always voluntary, you can of course just relax and enjoy watching the sailing manoeuvres onboard and traditional seamanship in action. 

The Inner Hebrides: Nature between the sea and the sky

'The Islands on the Edge of the Sea' is the name the Vikings gave the storm-tossed Hebrides, which once belonged to their empire. Barren and wild paradises, swept empty by the eternal wind. From Oban, we sail along the island of Kerrera, taking in the beauty of the shores of the Scottish Highlands and Islands district with its captivating atmosphere: waist-high ferns, moss-covered ruins that adorn the landscape, sheep roaming freely.

Northern Ireland to starboard, Scotland to port 

At the height of the Kintyre Peninsula, we reach the North Channel, the northern entrance to the Irish Sea. The wind and tide squeeze the ocean between the land masses. The weather, the profile of the coast and the water depth influence the strength and effect of the mighty current, which creates an unusual wave pattern. Following no set rhythm, the lake district often changes its face. We continue to sail into the Irish Sea: Northern Ireland on our starboard side, Scotland on our port side – from time to time we can see a rural and sleepy idyll on land amidst the stunning landscape. 

Four seasons in one day

In this sailing area, the wind and weather are varied and moody. The locals speak of 'four seasons in a single day'. Depending on the progress of the journey, there will be several opportunities to go on shore at some of the numerous ports along our route. However, due to the unpredictable weather conditions, the captain doesn't plan the trip on a long-term basis, but from day to day – whenever possible, the passengers' ideas and wishes will be taken into account. This ensures that you experience this cruise as a pleasant mix of adventure, relaxation, active participation and pure enjoyment. We can't promise that we'll be able to stop on the Isle of Man, but we will if it's possible. The most beautiful mooring spot of the independent island state is Port Erin. A historic steam train travels from there to the island's capital Douglas. Traditional pubs, hiking trails through heather, seabird and seal sanctuaries, and a breathtaking view from the 620- meter high Mount Snaefell make a visit well worthwhile. 

This is where you will disembark: Dublin

With a sailor's bag full of travel impressions, you will leave the Eye of the Wind in the Irish capital, Dublin. After your arrival, take time to immerse yourself in the Temple Bar cultural quarter, with its typical pubs and Irish music. Churches, historic buildings (the famous Half Penny Bridge pictured right), parks, museums, literature, whiskey distilleries and nightlife – you'll need more than just one day to experience everything this metropolis has to offer. From Dublin, you can fly directly to many international airports in or outside Europe.

Six good reasons to go

  • Attractive ports of embarkation / disembarkation: Oban in the Scottish Highlands and Ireland’s capital
  • Spectacular nature and weather impressions in the Irish Sea 
  • A cruise for ocean lovers with plenty of time at sea and rare shore excursions 
  • Sailing and manoeuvering on a 100-year-old windjammer – you may participate actively! 
  • Excellent onboard cuisine, delicious meals from morning to evening 
  • Sailing and shore leave experiences together with our friendly and knowledgeable crew 

Please consider the following notes on the itinerary The indicated ports are optional. The ship's management reserves the right to change the itinerary at short notice depending on wind and weather conditions. The weather in this sailing area is considered very moody and varied, the locals speak of "four seasons in one day". Even in the late summer months, passing low pressure areas, changing winds and precipitation must be expected. For this trip it is advisable to be equipped with foul weather gear. We are happy to advise you on the selection of suitable weather clothing. 

Services included

  • 7 nights' accommodation aboard the Tall Ship Eye of the Wind. 
  • Accommodation in a comfortable double cabin with hot and cold running water, shower, toilet, and air conditioning (single cabin surcharge). 
  • Full board (including all meals, soft drinks, coffee & tea). 
  • Lounge with TV/DVD and extensive on-board library. 
  • The tour price includes VAT. 

Not included 

  • Transfers to and from the ship
  • shore excursions
  • alcoholic beverages. 

We gladly assist you in the individual planning of your arrival and departure. Please contact us if necessary in a timely manner.

Eye of the Wind

Bouwjaar 1911

one of the last traditional sailing ships of our time! The hundred-year-old brig Eye of the Wind will take you to the most enchanting sailing areas and the most beautiful harbours. Find out for yourself about the charm of this magnificent ship as part of an attractive theme trip, high-quality leadership training, a corporate event or an individual charter. Previous sailing experience is not required in order to sail on our windjammer. Relax under the sails in harmony with nature and the sea.

"Let your spirit set sail!"