Kyles and the Isles cruise

Board Splendour in the Holy Loch Marina at 1600hrs. After a welcoming glass of bubbly and the skipper’s safety briefing we head off for the Kyles of Bute, world-famous for tranquillity and scenic beauty. The anchor is dropped and it is time for a pre-dinner drinks and some nibbles. At 1930 dinner is served and consists of local meat or fish with a selection of fresh vegetables and potatoes, beautifully prepared by the onboard chef. This is followed by pudding, cheeses and coffee. At 2230 the generator is shut down and it is time for a wonderfully sound sleep accompanied by the sound of the sea gently lapping on Splendour’s wooden hull.

At 0730 the generator is started and the kettles put on for an early cup of tea or coffee. At 0830 a hearty breakfast is served consisting of juice, cereal/porridge, toast and cooked breakfast. At 0930ish we up anchor and head for Rothesay and a visit to fabulous Mount Stuart House and gardens. On returning to the boat, lunch is served. This is normally soup and sandwiches or a salad, followed by tea of coffee. After lunch we head off up the Kyles to Loch Riddon to anchor for the night. Here you can try your hand at fishing or help the skipper set the lobster pots while the chef is preparing another delicious dinner.

After breakfast it’s off ashore by tender for the Cladah walk from Upper Caladh to Tighnabruaich via ancient oak woods, always on the alert for red squirrels and roe deer. Look out for seals and heron as you appreciate the wonderful views across the water to Bute, Inchmarnock and Arran. On arriving at Tighnabruaich, take time to enjoy the art gallery and lifeboat shop. Skipper will be waiting at the lifeboat slip to take you back to the boat for lunch and onwards to Loch Ranza on Arran for a visit to the Arran Distillery and hopefully a sighting of the golden eagles and red deer. After your shore trip it’s time to head back to the shelter of the Kyles for the last night aboard.

During breakfast we up anchor and head for the Holy Loch. At 1100, all too soon, its time for farewells.