Experience a scenic boat journey from Arisaig to the Isle of Eigg, a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts and island explorers alike. Discover rugged landscapes, local wildlife, and breathtaking views during this flexible, family-friendly adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour boat ride, 5 hours on Eigg
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families
Wildlife
History
Eigg has a long history of Gaelic settlement and was part of the Small Isles community that played a key role in local Scottish history.
Conservation
Eigg’s community-led initiatives prioritize preserving its natural landscape and marine environment, promoting sustainable tourism.
Arisaig Marine Ltd
Experience a scenic boat journey from Arisaig to the Isle of Eigg, a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts and island explorers alike. Discover rugged landscapes, local wildlife, and breathtaking views during this flexible, family-friendly adventure.
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.
Book your return early
Plan ahead for your return trip to ensure a smooth, flexible schedule on your island visit.
Leash your dog
Keep your furry friend leashed at all times to ensure safety and respect for wildlife and other travelers.
Dress for the weather
Bring waterproof clothing and layers; maritime weather can change quickly.
Bring binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities with binoculars for seabirds and seals.
Weatherproof clothing
Stay dry and comfortable during the boat trip and on the island.
spring summer fall winter
Daypack
Carry water, snacks, and gear for your island exploration.
Binoculars
Spot marine wildlife and birdlife more clearly.
Sturdy walking shoes
Navigate varied terrain comfortably on Eigg.