Photo's (by Julie) taken during one of our previous Oban to Lochboisdale ferry crossings (September 2014) when the sea was like glass.
Fantastic. Due to the spring tides and strong wind, the Mallaig ferry was diverted on 18th September and we were able to sail non-stop from Oban to Lochboisdale. We have always loved the Oban ferry crossing and it was always our preferred route to North Uist when travelling from the south, before Calmac altered its schedule recently. There are rumours however that the wonderful Oban/Lochboisdale ferry may be resurrected in 2017!
To sail west through the Sound of Mull with the scenic Ardnamurchan peninsula to the north (itself the place of many of our holidays in the past) is always special and brings back so many wonderful memories of our previous crossings. Also, if the weather is poor, the shelter of the Sound allows enough time to enjoy fish and chips followed by ice cream in calm water before the ferry reaches choppier waters in the Sea of the Hebrides.
As we passed the Ardnamurchan point lighthouse there were good views of the islands of Coll and Tiree to the south and the unmistakeable silhouette of Eigg to the north west, though the mountains of Rhum were in cloud. We admired the constantly changing views and colours as the sea changed from aqua green to blue/grey.
As the mist fell, we retreated to the ferry lounge on the top deck and sprawled out on one of the many sofa's with a cup of tea for some "down time". The rumble of the engines, the gentle motion of the ship and a good book is so relaxing and such a lovely way to start a holiday.
North Uist, here we come!