Moidart, Ardnamurchan, Morvern, Arisaig and Mallaig boast some excellent waters for sailing, kayaking and canoeing. Sheltered freshwater and sea lochs provide ideal conditions for exploring inlets, small, inaccessible islands and getting close to coastal and aquatic wildlife. Couple these experiences with fabulous scenery and you will find it is one of the best ways to enjoy the splendours of the Highlands.
Similarly, sea kayaking affords the opportunity to explore rocky coastline, sandy beaches and open seas, and enjoy the abundant wildlife associated with these habitats, including seals, otters, a range of coastal birds and, if you are really lucky, basking sharks and dolphins. However, it is always advisable to seek local knowledge and guidance as to the safety of the waters before setting out, or take a local guide or join an organised kayaking trip.
Sailing in the Western Highlands probably ranks amongst the best for spectacular scenery, intricate coastline, small isles and both sheltered and more challenging waters, whether exploring by yacht, small sailing dinghies or cruising boats. In addition, the region offers sheltered anchorage, harbour and marina facilities. Skippered charter boats and self-drive boat hire are available in the area, as well as yachting services, catering for day and longer trips. However, it should be noted that the waters around the Ardnamurchan peninsular and the Small Isles can be very challenging with strong tidal streams and changeable weather conditions, and should only be attempted with local knowledge and by experienced hands.
There are also a number of companies offering wildlife cruises. For example, Loch Shiel Cruises operates on Loch Shiel, one of Scotland’s largest inland freshwater lochs. Possible highlights include sightings of golden eagles and black-throated divers. Wildlife cruises can also be made to the remote and beautiful Small Isles of Muck, Eigg, Rum and Canna, and to Mull, with the chance of encountering minke whale, common and bottlenose dolphin, basking sharks, sunfish, grey and common seals, porpoises and killer whale. Possible birding highlights include puffin, sandwich tern, manx shearwater, gannet, sea eagle, and if, really lucky, great skua.
For those interesting in more leisurely travel, you can go an organised day trip, hire a cruiser or charter a yacht on the Caledonian Canal. The Canal runs between eastern and western Scotland and links Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness with stretches of man-made canal. It is 96.6km (60 miles) long of which 35.4km is constructed canal. Neptune’s Staircase, at Corpach, Fort William, is just one of remarkable engineering feats achieved on the canal, consisting of a series of eight locks that allow boats to navigate through a steep section (70 feet) of the Caledonian Canal.
For those of brave heart and stout of spirit there are many opportunities for wild swimming and snorkelling off the fabulous sandy beaches and rocky shores characteristic of the area. For those of a more tender nature or preferring indoor swimming, there are swimming pools in both Fort William and Mallaig.
For those interested in diving, the clear waters and abundant and varied marine life make for an excellent dive location. Notable species in Loch Sunart include flame shells (Limaria hians), scarce gann spoon worm (Amalosoma eddystonense), sea loch anemone (Protanthea simplex), the Northern Hatchet shell (Thyasira gouldi).