SPOTTING SEABIRDS

The best months to see Scotland’s seabirds are May - July, the peak breeding season for most species. The majority of colonies are located on islands without all-weather anchorages, so it is important to monitor the forecast regularly and to wait for suitable weather.

1 LUNGA, TRESHNISH ISLANDS

The main anchorage, with good holding in sand, is off the east side, at the northern end. Careful navigation is required to enter. Tuck well in towards the shore to avoid strong tidal currents in the channel.

We like to wait for the weather window in Tobermory, on Mull. Sheltered from most winds, apart from strong north to northeast winds, it offers visitor moorings, a small marina and good facilities. Contact the HM on: 07917 832 497 or Email: harbour@tobermoryharbour.co.uk

2 SHIANT ISLANDS

In settled weather, anchorage can be found on either side of the low spit between the two halves of the island, but we found the bottom to be rocky. Below the boulder field on the east side of Garbh Eilean, we found sand patches in around 10m, quite close to the shore. Beware of back winding!we waited for weather in Loch Gairloch on the mainland coast, an easy day sail away. This attractive, deep bay has a choice of anchorages to suit prevailing conditions.

3 ST KILDA

Sailing to St Kilda is a real challenge. The anchorage in Village Bay offers reasonable protection from SW to NW winds but it is subject to ocean swell, which can make landing difficult.

The closest ‘jumping-off’ point would be from anchorages on Harris or North Uist, via the Sound of Harris. However, our approach has been to wait in or around Barra until a favourable southwest wind allows us to reach St Kilda in a long but pleasant day sail. Be ready to leave if conditions deteriorate.