Outer Hebrides Explorer

Scenic view of St Kilda's waters, featuring rugged cliffs and open sea, part of the route we'll navigate during the tour Outer Hebrides Explorer.

This tour has multiple departures

A ten-day sailing adventure to the Outer Hebrides, Scotland with Selkie Explorers

St Kilda is a remote and dramatic archipelago, part of the Outer Hebrides. Its jagged cliffs and soaring stacks rise from the Atlantic, 40 miles offshore. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for both its natural and cultural significance. On Selkie’s Outer Isles Explorer voyage, you’ll sail around the world’s largest gannet colony. You’ll also see the oldest fulmar colony and a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. In addition, seals often rest on the rocks and sing in the nearby caves. Occasionally, minke whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters surrounding these islands.

Highlights of Outer Hebrides Explorer

  • Anchor overnight at Village Bay, weather permitting, and go ashore to explore St Kilda’s historic culture.
  • Visit Hirta Island, nearly 90 years after the last St Kildans were evacuated.
  • Discover cleits (stone storage structures) scattered across the hillsides.
  • Observe soay sheep roaming freely throughout the island.
  • Learn about the unique governance and cooperation that sustained life on St Kilda for thousands of years.
  • Meet staff and volunteers from the National Trust for Scotland, Ministry of Defence, and scientists currently residing on Hirta.
  • Other islands we may visit are the Monach Isles, Mingulay, and Berneray, the southernmost isles of the Outer Hebrides.
  • Discover rich wildlife and evocative history that are both awe-inspiring and humbling.
  • Experience demanding yet rewarding voyages, with long hours at sea and challenging landings.
  • Enjoy strenuous walks through remote and beautiful landscapes.

Conditions may be tough, but there’s always a chance for sunny skies and calm seas! This is an ideal adventure for those with sailing experience or active outdoor enthusiasts who are confident in their fitness.

This trip is unique and a fantastic experience. Leaving from Mallaig, our voyage focuses on getting out to St Kilda if sea and weather conditions are favourable.  In all seasons, Scotland is very changeable, and the itinerary depends on the waves and wind we encounter. In 2025, Selkie is offering three 10-day voyages. This is a fantastic way to explore many beautiful islands on the way there and back. The wildlife we see is incredible, as are the vistas. During the first two trips, our final anchorage was Selkie’s home port of Eigg, another island jewel for beauty, sustainability, and community. 

 

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