19 THE WEE ISLANDS AROUND MULL

On this trip we'll set of from our base at Craobh Haven and head north.  Slipping  through the Cuan Sound at the north of Luing we'll head out into open water then continue west along the south coast of Mull and on to the Islands of Iona and  Staffa.  The waters west of Mull are great places for spotting dolphins and whales.

To the east of Mull we can call in at the Garvellach Islands.  This little group of rocky outcrops are thought to be composed of the oldest rock to be found anywhere on the surface of the planet.  The most southerly of these islands also has the remains of a thousand year old beehive monetary.  From here we could continue up the Sound of Mull, passing castles and beautiful lighthouses along the way.  We could stop for a distillery tour at Nc Nean or drop in at Tobermory, the pretty wee town at the north end of the Island.  Heading west we can explore Ulva and Gometra.  These islands have just a few intrepid inhabitants and are great places for a wander.  A little further south we'll anchor off Staffa and go ashore to explore Fingal's Cave.  This amazing cathedral like chasm was formed over thousands of years.  It's almost hard to believe that its towering basalt columns are a natural occurrence.  A little further south we'll stop at Iona.  This is a magical island steeped in Celtic and early Christian history.  From here we'll swoop back along the south coast of Mull maybe stopping at Colonsay or Jura along the way.  Over the last few years we've had some great weather at this time of year with the most stunning sunsets.  As always there will be as many opportunities as you would like to get involved.  The crew will be absolutely delighted to show you the tricks and techniques that we use to make the boat go more or less where we want.  And as always there's no pressure.  Everything happens pretty slowly and the important tasks of having tea and cake, enjoying great company and generally unwinding are never overlooked.