Humpback Whale off the Starboard Bow
Getting you Close to nature on our Scottish Wildlife Cruises!
You don’t have to be on one of our dedicated Scottish Wildlife Cruises to spot Scotland’s famous five.
Our cruising area of Argyll is home to a number of iconic wildlife species and rarities. Catching a glimpse can often be one of many highlights of any cruise aboard ‘Splendour’. With our varied geography and terrain, different areas of Argyll are better suited to spotting different species. Luckily with years of experience, both on and off the water, skipper Iain knows the local hotspots and tell tale signs of approaching wildlife.
Onboard you will find many additions to increase your chances of seeing these wonderful creatures. Sport and field binoculars, with 8x magnification and 50mm lens diameter – for true enthusiasts we do recommend bringing your own. Wildlife books dedicated to our environment and our own, ‘Get Wild about Argyll’ area bible. We are also delighted to announce that we are accredited Wildlife Safe Operators, by the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. We have joined forces with them and report sightings to their website. Cataloging vital data about the cetaceans that both crew and guests see.
We have started our wildlife series with the iconic Five and will be adding more, as we spot the species on our travels. Many of our photographs are our own, or have been kindly shared by guests onboard. Capturing some amazing shots from the decks of ‘Splendour’, or exploring the coastal inlets and islands on shore.
Each species that we are highlighting also displays the cruise of choice, for the best chances of your close encounter! We can’t always guarantee sightings of specific species, another reason why some of these iconic and rarities can be such a special occasion for both crew and our guests. We endeavour to do our upmost.
Can’t find the species you are looking for? Speak to Jamie, he is more than happy to offer realistic advice on your chances and what wildlife cruises itineraries would be suited best… Don’t Forget Your Camera!
What a wonderful trip. Exceeded all expectations. Thank you Iain for all your care and attention.
Paula & Russell | Hebridean Odyssey | June 2018
Incredible holiday! Iain is the best skipper – friendly, knowledgeable and always happy to oblige. Michelin cooking out of a tiny kitchen and amazed us every day! We loved every minute. Thank you for making it so great!
Roger, Becky & Family | Family Cruise Holiday | August 2018
For the third time! Crew and Splendour A.1. as ever! Ailsa Craig tops this time. Great company.
Mike & Sue | Inlets and Islands of Wild Argyll | May 2018
Boat and team excellent, Jamie in sorting out pre tour, Iain for everything and Mike what wonderful food and wise ‘crack’ coming from that small galley. Wonderful, in my mind forever.
Tim & Liz
A very BIG thank you to Iain & Chef, but not for the increased waistlines 🙂 Calm waters where we ventured and we will have to return to visit those islands and the puffins – next time Iona, Eigg, Rum and Muck…
Trevor & Jan | Private Charter | June 2018