FAQ Provident Sailing
How do I book a voyage?
You can send an enquiry using this form. We’ll double check availability and get back to you with a link to our guest crew information form and details of how to pay a deposit.
If you have special requests or need help, contact us directly.
Do I need sailing experience?
No experience is required. We welcome everyone.
What happens if the weather is bad or plans change?
Our itineraries are flexible. The weather, winds, tides, and sea conditions may mean we adjust plans for safety and enjoyment.
Where do voyages depart from / join?
Voyages join from Craobh Haven or Mallaig. The marina at Craobh is about 22 miles South of the Oban. PA31 8UA. https://www.craobhmarina.co.uk/contact/ (approximately a 30 minute drive)
In Mallaig we are usually moored at the end of the Fish Pier in the middle of the harbour.
What routes / areas do you sail?
We explore Scotland’s west coast — the Hebrides, islands, peninsulas, and remote anchorages.
Is the itinerary fixed?
No. While we may propose a route, the exact plan is adjusted day by day depending on weather conditions and guest interests.
What are the cabin arrangements?
Provident has four separate twin cabins. They are quite cosy but with enough space for a good night’s sleep and enough room for your stuff. All the cabins have USB charging points and LED lighting. All the cabins have heating and there is a separate place for drying wet gear so you won’t need this in your cabin.
I’m a solo traveller do I have to share?
We will give you your own cabin by default but if the boat is full and you don’t mind sharing we may ask you to share with another solo traveller of the same sex.
How many bathrooms / shower facilities?
There are two bathrooms, one of which includes a shower.
What are the facilities like (heating, deckhouse, etc.)?
The vessel includes a cosy deckhouse, central heating, and warm shower.
Can guests help with sailing / tasks onboard?
Yes — we love you to get involved in sailing duties (hoisting sails, steering, etc.), though it’s entirely optional.
Are there rules about smoking?
Yes — smoking is allowed on deck only (never below decks).
What should I pack or bring?
You don’t need specialist gear, but you should bring sensible clothing for wet, wind and changeable weather, non-slip shoes, waterproofs, etc. We publish a kit list in advance.
Are meals provided?
Yes — delicious home-cooked meals are prepared on board using local produce where possible. Really good food is very much at the heart of our voyages. Although we’re not into five courses of deconstructed cheesecake with micro-herbs assembled with tweezers. The food on board is hearty, healthy(ish) and wherever possible, local. Our contacts with local providers could well see us pulling lobster or langoustine straight out of the sea or calling in at South Rona for some of Bill’s island reared venison. Typically we’ll offer a good breakfast with porridge and some form of cooked indulgence. Hot drinks and snacks mid-morning. A simple lunch of home-made soup or sausage rolls or a delicious seafood sandwich. More tea and cakes in the afternoon and a delicious evening meal followed by a proper pudding.
Is the boat dry? Are alcoholic drinks available?
We have a stock of beer and wine on board which will be available at modest prices to enjoy with food. We also carry a stock of the finest whisky sourced from the areas we sail in so we will be happy to share a dram and give you some waffle…. I mean tasting notes.
Do you cater for dietary restrictions?
Yes — vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
Am I too old, young, middle aged, wobbly, etc...?
As her name suggests, Provident has a proud tradition of providing sailing experiences to all sorts of people. We aim to continue with this and will always do whatever we can to welcome you on board. Being on a boat can be quite physical. Probably the biggest limiting factor will be the steps leading from the deck down to the saloon. The companionway has plenty of hand holds which can be a big help. If you feel ok about tackling this then there’s no problem. If you’re not sure, give us a ring and we can have a chat. We have quite a bit of experience sailing with people with physical challenges and with a bit of imagination we hope we can find a way to make this work.
Is Provident safe / suited to those with limited mobility?
The vessel is partially suitable for visitors with limited mobility, but note that going ashore or moving between decks may require agility.
Will I get seasick? …Maybe… But read on...
Even some of the competitors in the Volvo Ocean Race get seasick sometimes. Although they tend to be charging about the Southern Ocean for weeks at a time. If you are unlucky enough to be feeling a little off-colour we’ll do our best to keep you comfortable. But better still… we’ll do all that we can to keep you feeling sunny side up in the first place. For one thing Provident is a big, heavy and stable ship. Better than a modern plastic-fantastic at absorbing the waves. The way a boat is sailed and where we go makes a big difference too. One of the best things about the West of Scotland is the choice. If things are looking a bit bouncy on the open water we can head up any number of amazing sea lochs. If the waves are sideways-on while we head for a particular island? No problem, we’ll go somewhere else. The choices are endless. We also have lots of experience with various sea sickness remedies and the ultimate secret weapon is to get you steering the boat. As if by magic, the process of taking the wheel allows the brain to reassemble the world and this can have you feeling good again in no time.
Are lifejackets / safety equipment provided?
Yes — all necessary safety gear is aboard, and you’ll be briefed and guided in its use.
When and where was Provident built?
Provident was built in 1924 by Saunders & Co in Galmpton, Devon.
What type of rig does she have?
She is rigged as a gaff ketch (historically also described as a gaff cutter for aspects of her sail plan).
What is her registration / heritage status?
Provident is listed on the National Historic Fleet, with registration number 616.