Choose to cruise to the Hebrides

Take your time, relax and enjoy the scenery

With the many improvements of recent years, the road to the isles of the Outer Hebrides is a great deal less arduous than it once was.

Although it will take you a good deal longer than travelling here by air, the journey really is part of your holiday, giving you opportunities to explore other Scottish highlights on the way, perhaps the mountains and glens of the Highlands, or the west coast.

You can leave the UK motorway system near Perth and follow wide, smooth trunk roads past Inverness to Ullapool. Then take a short voyage on the Isle of Lewis, the pride of Caledonian MacBrayne’s fleet, with observation lounge, restaurant, bar, children’s play area - and some of the finest views in Scotland.  

Or perhaps you’ll take the scenic route to Oban or the Isle of Skye and cross with another of CalMac’s large, modern ships. Typically carrying more than 100 cars and 600 passengers, these ships are surprisingly large - roughly the length of a football pitch.

They’re all drive-on / drive-off and offer a relaxed, stress free journey. No customs, no immigration, no fuss.

The ferry journeys are truly important aspects of your holiday, with amazing scenery slipping past the ship, plus an opportunity to observe the every day comings and goings of islanders.

Of course, travelling in your own car, you’ll enjoy familiar comforts, and you can bring as much baggage as you like - even your mountain bikes!
Once in the Hebrides, all your inter-island ferry crossings, which are included in the holiday package, will also be on CalMac vessels. Because they’re purpose built for the route they operate, the ferries vary widely in size and facilities, but each offers a uniquely fascinating journey - an everyday function of life for the local population, but almost certainly a source of inspiration for every visitor.  

Whether you choose to cruise or prefer to arrive by air, our resident holiday advisors will look after every aspect of your booking, tailoring your accommodation choices to your interests and favoured touring route.

A car is the ideal way to see the islands but it’s not essential - whether you travel here by train, coach or bike, we can provide just the holiday to suit you - all you need do is ask us.