Mull’s magic never fails to captivate!
One of our most popular mini cruises is the three-night Magic of Mull cruise, an unforgettable adventure exploring the west coast of Scotland.
Last week, Skipper Iain and Chef Mike welcomed guests aboard Splendour for an itinerary filled with wildlife, fine dining, and the very best of Scottish cruises.
As Splendour sailed out of Oban, guests settled back on the outdoor decks and enjoyed their first wildlife encounter, seal spotting against a backdrop of the dramatic coastline. A pod of porpoise danced alongside the boat, setting the tone for an unforgettable mini-cruise.
Our first stop was Tobermory, its iconic coloured houses hugging the harbour. Even first-time visitors instantly recognise this picturesque isle. Tobermory bustled with yachts and motorboats, all here to explore Scotland and the Hebrides. As always, dining on board was a highlight, with Chef Mike serving Salad Niçoise followed by seared Loch Fyne salmon on spinach with a chive and shallot beurre blanc. Guests savoured champ potatoes, mangetout, and sprouting broccoli, ending with a trio of cheeses from Scotland, France, and southern England.
Morning brought the aroma of Loch Fyne kippers, a favourite of our cruise holidays, before guests explored Tobermory ashore. Long-time traveller Rob, on his sixth mini cruise, discovered a rare 14-year-old cask-strength whisky at a local shop, proving there is always something new to uncover.
Back on board, lunch featured butternut squash and parmesan soup with homemade Irish soda bread. Cameras clicked furiously as puffin colonies on Lunga performed their comical displays, a firm favourite on all our mini cruises from the UK. The next stop was Staffa, home to the legendary Fingal’s Cave. This natural wonder, known as Uamh-Binn or the Cave of Melody, shares its basalt-column structure with Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway. Legend tells of the Irish giant Finn McCool building a bridge to Scotland to battle Benandonner.
A heavy swell prevented entry to the cave that day, so Splendour anchored off Gometra overnight. Judith, Pat, and Ken took the kayaks out on the sheltered waters while Rob and Lynda watched sea eagles and an impressive red stag from the upper deck. Dinner featured roast corn-fed chicken on creamed leeks with cumin and tarragon jus, boulangerie potatoes, and summer Scottish raspberry Eton mess for dessert.
The next day dawned calm, perfect for another attempt at Fingal’s Cave. Guests boarded the tender, finally stepping inside the towering 72-foot-high, 270-foot-deep cavern. This unforgettable moment was a highlight for many, adding another memory to their list of mini cruises offer experiences.
Our journey continued to Iona, a sacred island known for its Abbey founded by St Columba in 563. Guests split into two groups, walkers and Abbey visitors, before reuniting for lunch aboard Splendour: individual macaroni cheese with salads and mint-dressed cucumber.
Later, we cruised along Mull’s rugged southern coastline to Loch Spelve for our final overnight anchorage. Spotting bottlenose dolphins, red deer, and wild goats along the way, we stopped for freshly harvested mussels cooked with Loch Fyne ale, shallots, garlic, and fresh coriander. This local produce was followed by grilled sea bass with cauliflower purée and tomato-basil essence.
A short break on our Magic of Mull cruise offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re seeking culture and history, spectacular sea birds, or close encounters with dolphins and minke whales, our Scottish cruise holidays deliver it all.
If you are planning a getaway in 2025 or 2026, book one of our mini cruises from the UK to discover the small isles, including Staffa and Iona, and the islands of Argyll. With cosy cabin accommodation, unmatched hospitality, and carefully crafted itineraries, our cruises provide the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
From exploring the western isles and outer Hebrides to sunset views over the sea lochs, there’s no better way to experience Scotland and the Hebrides. Join us on board for an unforgettable journey where every cruise is an adventure, every meal a delight, and every moment a memory.
Book now for overnight sailings on Splendour, and let your mini cruise include two unforgettable bucket-list moments: visiting Fingal’s Cave and Iona Abbey.
Mini Cruises 2019
If you’re interested in history, Scottish islands, heroes and legends then don’t ‘mull’ it over, make sure you’re onboard Splendour for our next Magic of Mull cruise. DO IT ONLINE…
“One of my very favourite adventures.” Ron Domin
Private charter | May 2023
“A wonderfully relaxing trip, great company, Iggy’s wonderful food and calm and sunny weather. Thank you!” Helen
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2022
“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023
“Thank you for a brilliant holiday. I loved every bit about it. Food was fantastic. I’ll be back.” Brigitte Jones
Kyles and the Isles | April 2023
“A fabulous trip and something we will long-remember . . . Would highly recommend this trip for adventurous people of all ages.”
Private charter | July 2023