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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.25 hours (boat trip) + 3 hours on Rum
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors; moderate walking involved on Rum if exploring independently
Wildlife
History
Rum was once a hub for tin mining in the 19th century and played a strategic role during WWII.
Conservation
The area is part of a protected SSSI, ensuring habitat preservation and sustainable tourism.
Arisaig Marine Ltd
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.
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.
Destinations
Arisaig, Eigg, Rum, Canna, Muck
Regular sailings to the Small Isles
Durations
30 min–4 hr
Various crossing and cruise times
Vessels
MV Sheerwater, MV Briscoe
Transfers and scenic cruises
Dog Policy
Dogs travel free
Keep dogs on a short lead on deck
Choose from puffin cruises, Jacobite sails, island transfers and non-landing scenic trips — many sailings welcome dogs on deck.
Check the weather forecast
Scottish coastal weather can change rapidly, so dress in layers and be prepared for wind or rain.
Bring swimwear and quick-dry towels
If you plan to explore Rum’s beaches or go for a quick dip, pack appropriate gear.
Carry a camera and binoculars
Capture the stunning scenery and spot wildlife from a distance during your trip.
Book in advance during peak season
Popular trips fill quickly, especially in summer, so reserve your spot early.
Waterproof jacket
Protects you from wind and rain during the boat trip.
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Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for exploring Rum’s rugged terrain.
spring, summer, fall, winter
Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
Shield yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.
summer
Camera or smartphone with zoom lens
Capture Rum's stunning scenery and wildlife.
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