This whale watching expedition is based on the beautiful and tranquil Isle of Mull off the west coast of Scotland - a perfect location to relax and get close to nature by seeing marine wildlife and mammals in their natural habitat.
You will be onboard a 50ft passenger boat, which will take you on a journey of around six hours to seek out the minke whales which gather every year to feed in the Hebridean waters.
Minke whales grow up to 10m in length and are renowned for the spectacular leaps and plunges they execute as they feed. They are also naturally inquisitive - especially the youngsters - and can be keen to take a closer look themselves at who has come to watch them.
Of course, success can never be guaranteed and the wildlife will make appearances on their own terms, but just to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their own natural habitat is considered a real privilege.
Porpoise and seals are resident around Mull throughout the year and although dolphins can be spotted on a regular basis they are a transient, and it's up to them whether they decide to visit. The second largest fish in the sea - the basking shark, arrives in Mull's water during early May and stays throughout the summer months. Uncommon species to the west coast of Scotland, e.g fin whales and bottle-nosed whales among others, also make the odd appearance and sightings of the Orca are on the increase.
The expedition lasts around six hours and you will be part of a group aboard the boat with an experienced team to pilot the boat and commentate. The Isle of Mull makes a wonderful destination for a long weekend or short break holiday. The Isle is rightly famed for its hospitable welcome and stunning scenery and the famously picturesque fishing village of Tobermory.
Whale watching expeditions are available from the end of April to the end of September, the period during which the minke whales move into the local waters. Travellers must ensure they are on the first ferry from Oban in the morning, which departs at 0700 or 0745am according to date (excluding Sundays). The whale watching cruise leaves Tobermory at 0930hrs so alternatively, you may prefer to spend the night before your trip on the island. Advance booking is essential
Ferries are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne from Oban. Costs are approximately £50/car and £7/per person and takes only 45 minutes. Oban is on the west coast of Scotland approximately two and a half hours drive north west from Glasgow. Accessible from the South via the low-cost airline Easy Jet from Stansted to Glasgow and on via hire car.
The minimum age for this whale watching experience is 14. You should be agile and fit enough to be able to climb in and out of the boat. Sailing may be cancelled in adverse conditions at the skippers discretion. There are no cancellations for rain. You should wear warm, waterproof and comfortable clothing; some oilskins are available on board. If cancellation occurs you will be offered another date if possible during your stay on Mull. If no acceptable date can be found a full refund will be made. The return to harbour does not allow time to catch the last sailing back to Oban, so you will have to spend at least one night on Mull. This will give you the freedom to explore more of the islands the following day.
The experience is not suitable for spectators, but if you're not on the boat there is plenty to do and see on Oban. Tea and coffee will be available, but you should bring your own food for a picnic, usually taken on one of the scenic islands such as Coll or Muck. Accommodation is plentiful on the island and the operator can advise you.