Logs
As the spring colours explode into vibrant life, visit some of the most spectacular and alluring gardens in the British Isles – gardens warmed by the Gulf Stream with rich, acidic soils that support a matchless variety and richness of plants.
Tuesday 5th May
Guests joined the vessel in the bustling harbour town of Oban, the unofficial gateway to the Hebrides. With everyone settled on board, the evening was spent alongside as anticipation built for the voyage ahead.
Wednesday 6th May
Our first full day introduced guests to the remarkable gardens of Scotland’s west coast. In the morning, guests explored the peaceful grounds of Ardmaddy Castle Gardens, surrounded by woodland and sweeping coastal views.
Later, we anchored off Craobh Haven, where coaches transported guests to the renowned Arduaine Gardens. Perched on the shores of Loch Melfort, the gardens flourish thanks to the mild maritime climate and are home to an impressive collection of rhododendrons, magnolias, and exotic plants from around the world.
As evening fell, we anchored overnight at the quiet and sheltered waters of Ulva South.
Thursday 7th May
From Ulva Ferry on the Isle of Mull, guests travelled to Lip na Cloiche Garden for a private visit hosted by owner Lucy Mackenzie. Nestled into the rugged landscape, the garden reflects both creativity and a deep connection to the surrounding environment.
During the afternoon, the ship cruised north along Mull’s spectacular coastline and past the Small Isles, with ever-changing views of dramatic cliffs, distant peaks, and open Atlantic waters. By evening, we reached our overnight anchorage at Inverie, one of the most remote and picturesque villages on the Scottish mainland.
Friday 8th May
The morning brought us to Armadale on the Isle of Skye, where guests visited Armadale Castle and Gardens. Woodland walks, vibrant planting, and views across the Sound of Sleat made for a memorable visit.
In the afternoon, we continued to Kyle of Lochalsh for a special visit to Attadale Gardens, hosted by owner Joanna Macpherson. Set beneath towering mountains, the gardens combine formal planting with water features and striking sculptures, creating a unique Highland setting.
We remained alongside overnight in Kyle of Lochalsh.
Saturday 9th May
A leisurely morning cruise through the Inner Sound and Loch Broom offered spectacular Highland scenery, with opportunities to spot seabirds and marine wildlife along the way.
That afternoon, guests visited two contrasting but equally charming gardens near Ullapool: Dundonnell House Garden, known for its Himalayan plant collection, and the nearby Durnamuck Garden, celebrated for its colourful and contemporary design.
We spent a peaceful overnight stay alongside in Ullapool.
Sunday 10th May
After an early departure from Ullapool, we arrived in Loch Ewe, where guests were traditionally piped ashore for a visit to the famous Inverewe Garden. Created in the 19th century on a rugged coastal estate, Inverewe is renowned for its extraordinary collection of subtropical plants thriving far north on Scotland’s Atlantic coast.
In the afternoon, we cruised along the north coast of Skye, passing dramatic sea cliffs, hidden bays, and distant islands before anchoring overnight in the beautiful surroundings of Loch Bay.
Monday 11th May
Our final full day brought us into Loch Dunvegan, where guests explored the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, ancestral home of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Many also enjoyed boat trips to see the area’s resident seal colony basking along the shoreline.
The afternoon was spent cruising through the Hebridean waters, enjoying the final moments of this unforgettable journey through Scotland’s wild and beautiful west coast, on passage to our overnight anchorage in Charlotte Bay.
Tuesday 12th May
Following breakfast, guests disembarked in Oban, bringing to a close a memorable voyage filled with spectacular landscapes, exceptional gardens, and warm Highland hospitality.
