What makes this cruise extra special is that in addition to
our four crew we have two wildlife specialists on board The Glen Tarsan for
identifying birds, mammals and marine species.
Matt Oliver is an ecologist with a great talent for spotting and
identifying birds and mammals. Rachel Bell is a marine biologist with a passion
for the conservation of habitats for marine species.
The Island of Mull is outstanding for its natural
environment and remarkable range of wildlife. The itinerary takes in many
wilderness areas which are very scenic as well as providing the best
opportunity to see as many species as possible. Anchorages are chosen for their tranquillity
and natural habitat. A major attraction in May is the proximity of nesting
puffins and other seabirds on the offshore islands. Porpoises, dolphins,
otters, white-tailed and golden eagles and many other bird species can be
spotted at any month of the season.
Typical stopovers and anchorages:
• Loch Spelve: Anchor in Loch Spelve on Mull, well known for
sighting otters, with the opportunity to take a shore walk under a canopy of
ancient oak forest. White-tailed eagles are frequently seen circling on the
hills behind the loch
• Tobermory: Go ashore for a woodland walk with some spectacular waterfalls in Aros Park, home to a variety of woodland birds. Visit the shag colony at the waterfall in the harbour
• Lunga: Go ashore to get close to nesting puffins and other birds from April to July. Puffins have a relaxed attitude to humans – they seem to know that having people near the nests prevents predation by gulls
• Ulva and Gometra: An idyllic anchorage between the isles of Ulva and Gometra where seals, red deer and feral goats can be viewed from the boat. On shore, sightings of white-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons are frequent
• Fingal’s Cave: Take a trip into Fingal’s Cave on Staffa in the boat tender for an unforgettable view of the rock formations; the isle is also a haven for wildlife
• Iona: Dolphins are often seen in Iona sound and the elusive corncrake is often heard. A visit to the Abbey is an opportunity not to be missed
• Tobermory: Go ashore for a woodland walk with some spectacular waterfalls in Aros Park, home to a variety of woodland birds. Visit the shag colony at the waterfall in the harbour
• Lunga: Go ashore to get close to nesting puffins and other birds from April to July. Puffins have a relaxed attitude to humans – they seem to know that having people near the nests prevents predation by gulls
• Ulva and Gometra: An idyllic anchorage between the isles of Ulva and Gometra where seals, red deer and feral goats can be viewed from the boat. On shore, sightings of white-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons are frequent
• Fingal’s Cave: Take a trip into Fingal’s Cave on Staffa in the boat tender for an unforgettable view of the rock formations; the isle is also a haven for wildlife
• Iona: Dolphins are often seen in Iona sound and the elusive corncrake is often heard. A visit to the Abbey is an opportunity not to be missed
Please note that visiting the islands at the west of Mull may not be possible in very windy weather, however it is very unusual for this to happen. If it is deemed not safe to travel west, there are many alternative idyllic and wildlife-rich locations in more sheltered locations.
Book now online
Book now online
