Discover the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Isle of Rum on a scenic boat trip with Arisaig Marine Ltd. This unique journey combines maritime adventure with a chance to explore one of the country’s most captivating islands, renowned for its dramatic scenery and rich wildlife.
Discover the rugged beauty of Scotland’s Isle of Rum on a scenic boat trip with Arisaig Marine Ltd. This unique journey combines maritime adventure with a chance to explore one of the country’s most captivating islands, renowned for its dramatic scenery and rich wildlife.
Book with Arisaig Marine Ltd
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Arisaig Marine Ltd · Inverness, Scotland
Set along the rugged west coast of Scotland, Arisaig Marine Ltd offers a striking gateway to the Isle of Rum, a place known for its dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. The journey begins with a scenic 2.25-hour boat ride that takes travelers across shimmering waters, passing by Eigg and gaining front-row views of the Inner Hebrides. This vessel cruise isn't just transportation; it's a floating adventure offering a taste of the rugged maritime environment that defines this area. Once on Rum, visitors can spend three hours immersing themselves in the island’s untamed beauty—from rocky coastlines and sandy beaches to lush hillsides brimming with unique flora and fauna. Rum’s landscape features striking granite formations and rolling moorlands teeming with red deer and seals, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and landscape photographers alike. The boat operators are locals with a wealth of knowledge about the area’s history and natural history, making each trip informative and engaging. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, exploring hidden coves, or simply soaking in breathtaking vistas, this adventure offers a perfect balance of comfort and discovery. And with flexible return options, it caters to those who wish to linger longer or make this a quick day trip. The experience is ideal for outdoor lovers looking for a genuine maritime adventure—no technical skills required, though comfort with boat travel is recommended. Pack your camera, some comfortable layered clothing, and a sense of curiosity for a memorable taste of Scotland’s remote islands. Arisaig Marine Ltd’s trips provide more than just transportation—they craft a genuine voyage into the rugged Atlantic landscape, making them a standout choice for anyone seeking a sea-based escape in the Scottish Highlands.
easy.
2.25 hours (boat trip) + 3 hours on Rum.
Suitable for most visitors; moderate walking involved on Rum if exploring independently
Yes, children who are comfortable on boats and can walk moderate distances will enjoy the trip.
Yes, dogs are welcome, but it's best to inform the operator in advance.
Bring water, sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal supplies you may need.
It's recommended to book several weeks in advance during the peak summer months.
Keep an eye out for red deer, seals, seabirds, and occasionally otters.
Yes, the boat is equipped with basic facilities for passenger comfort.
Rum was once a hub for tin mining in the 19th century and played a strategic role during WWII.
The area is part of a protected SSSI, ensuring habitat preservation and sustainable tourism.
Arisaig Marine Ltd operates passenger boat services and sightseeing cruises around the Small Isles, using vessels including MV Sheerwater and MV Briscoe. The company offers a mix of landing and non-landing trips that call at or sail between Arisaig, Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck. Services include one-way island transfers (Arisaig > Eigg, Arisaig > Rum, Muck > Arisaig, Muck > Eigg, Rum > Eigg, Eigg > Arisaig) and day trips such as Canna Puffins (departures from Rum and from Canna) and Jacobite sail excursions from Arisaig. Non-landing cruises are offered aboard MV Briscoe in 1.5 hour and 3 hour formats. Passengers can choose to disembark and explore islands for set periods—typically three hours—or remain on board for extended sightseeing. Many sailings allow dogs to travel free of charge with requirements that pets stay on the deck and remain on a short lead. Several services are scheduled on specific days, for example weekday sailings listed as Tuesday, Friday or Thursday for certain routes, and seasonal runs from April to August with additional June sailings. Skippers are mentioned in trip descriptions, and safety and sightseeing are combined on historic and wildlife-focused itineraries, such as the Jacobite route through Loch nan Uamh and the puffin-focused trips near Canna. Typical crossing and cruise durations described across trips include 30 minutes, one hour, 1.5 hours, 2.25 hours, three hours and four-hour sailings, depending on route and whether landings are included.
Book with Arisaig Marine Ltd