The Yacht
THE SKYE BOAT SONG
‘Speed bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing
Onward, the sailors cry
Carry the lad that’s born to be king
Over the sea to Skye.’ – Words by Sir Harold Boulton,1884
Daily Sailing
Exclusive daily sailing trips in the hotel’s private yacht are available from April to September each day. Sensational excursions in the Sound of Sleat to Loch Hourn, Loch Nevis, The Isle of Rhum or Sandaig Island – home of Gavin Maxwell, author of “the Ring of Bright Water” await. A freshly prepared Lunch on board is included and the chance to sail in the company of whales, porpoises, basking sharks, seals and otters, adds a magical element to these awe inspiring trips. This is one of those enchanting, experiences which remain with you always.
Captain Kenneth Gunn and Anne Gracie are your experienced crew on the yacht. Anne is a RYA Day Skipper and Ken is a master mariner and RYA Yacht master who for many years was Captain of The Hebridean Princess – probably the most luxurious small cruise ship in the world. Ken is a great character who will entertain you with his stories about life in the nautical world.
Sailing is with a minimum of 4, and a maximum of 6 guests, in the responsible care of ship’s master Ken.
Sailing is weather dependent and the decision regarding sailing will be made by 10am on the morning of the excursion.
The daytrips include a freshly prepared lunch of homemade breads, smoked meats or smoked cheese and salad, a complementary glass of champagne or soft drinks! Light refreshments are also available throughout the sail. Trips commence at Armadale. Ken and Anne will be your hosts for the sail and will entertain you with their vast knowledge of the area.
Afterwards, you can slip back to the hotel and relax by the fire for pre-dinner drinks...
Costs and Booking
Daily yachting excursions which include a light lunch are £95 inc.VAT per person, per day or Half Day is £49.50. A note of interest is taken at the time of reserving your accommodation or at any time during your stay – subject to availability and to the weather of course.
The yacht is also available for private charters from £500 per day.
The Yacht
Our beautiful, white, luxury yacht - Solus na Mara - is a 42’, French built, Jeanneau Sun Odyssey DS and was purchased at The London Boat Show in 2007. We have been sailing with our guests on these magical trips since summer 2005 and they grow in popularity each year.
Full Day including lunch - £95.00
Half Day - £49.50
Full Exclusive rates - £500.00
Hotel Moorings
Last year we had five moorings laid in the bay below Duisdale House Hotel. These are available for any visiting yachts. There are showers available and a comfy bed for the night and fabulous food and excellent fine wines and Malt Whiskies.
Weddings on Board
In 2008 we took out a civil wedding license for the yacht enabling marriages onboard. Solus na Mara has already played host to several very special Weddings on Board and we also have a number booked for this coming year. So if you are looking for a truly unique Wedding Ceremony in one of the world’s most inspirational and exclusive settings call us now to talk about your plans.
Please do get in touch if you are thinking about a trip on the yacht but are unsure about any aspect of this wonderful opportunity. |