Loch Etive Cruises with Etive Boat Trips
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the trip is boat-based with minimal physical exertion required.
Overview
Set sail along the striking Loch Etive on a 6-hour cruise with Etive Boat Trips. Witness iconic landmarks, wildlife, and rich industrial history from the comfort of the stable Etive Explorer catamaran.
Loch Etive 2 - Shared Trip
For all ages! • 6 Hours • Full Day Loch Etive Expedition!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 6-hour cruise up Loch Etive aboard the stable Etive Explorer catamaran. Experience stunning highland scenery, including iconic landmarks and a seal colony. Enjoy hot drinks and a scenic lunch stop, all while surrounded by the beauty of nature. A memorable adventure awaits!
Duration: 6 Hours
A full day trip cruising all the way up to the head of Loch Etive. See the stunning highland scenery, including Connel Bridge, the Falls of Lora, Kilmaronag Narrows, Ardchattan Priory, Bonawe Quarry and Ironworks, Ben Cruachan, the seal colony, Ben Starav and the Trilleachan Slabs. We will stop at the head of the loch for lunch.
Includes
We provide hot drinks, water and biscuits on all trips. You are also very welcome to bring your own food.
We have a toilet on board which can only be used out at sea, however there are toilet facilities at the marina."
About Our Boat - The Etive Explorer
Etive Explorer is a 10 m Blyth Catamaran, licenced annually to carry 12 passengers and two crew members. This type of boat is very stable with a 5m beam, making her very comfortable as a cruising vessel. She has twin 170hp Yanmar diesel inboard engines and cruises at 8-9 knots, a perfect speed to enjoy the views. As a coded passenger vessel, we carry all the required safety equipment in the unlikely event of any emergency.
The island wheelhouse and ample deck space enables passengers to freely walk around to get their preferred vantage point, which includes up forward. There is plenty of seating available on deck and a mixture of sheltered seating and standing room in and behind the wheelhouse which allows shelter from even the wettest West coast weather. There is also a small galley area for preparing hot drinks etc.
Important to Know
Please arrive at the marina 10 minutes before departure time and wait at the safety barrier, a member of the crew will meet you and escort you to the boat.
Please bring warm waterproof clothing even in summer, as the weather can change quickly and there is nearly always a sea breeze.
Car park charge extra fee per day, please pay for this at the marina reception on arrival. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee seeing some or any wildlife mentioned above. Trips are weather and tide dependent and therefore subject to cancellation.
Trip durations quoted are approximate. Children under 1 year go free of charge. Children aged 14 and under have a reduced rate. Please NO alcohol or smoking on board. Children are to be supervised at all times. We reserve the right to maintain our advertised departure times, please let us know if you are going to be late.
Meeting Point
Dunstaffnage Marina - Please arrive at the marina 10 minutes before departure time and wait at the safety barrier, a member of the crew will meet you and escort you to the boat.
Adventure Tips
Bring Layers and Waterproofs
The West coast weather is unpredictable with frequent sea breezes; dress in warm, waterproof clothing even during summer trips.
Arrive Early
Plan to reach Dunstaffnage Marina at least 10 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Mind the Wildlife Etiquette
Keep distance from seals and local fauna to avoid disturbance, and respect wildlife viewing guidelines on board.
Reserve Parking at Marina
Pay parking fees at the marina reception; car parks can fill quickly during peak season.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common seals
- Golden eagles
History
Loch Etive’s shores are dotted with medieval sites like Ardchattan Priory, alongside remnants of Victorian-era industrial works such as Bonawe Ironworks.
Conservation
Etive Boat Trips follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on local wildlife and supports conservation efforts protecting marine habitats in the loch.
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Adventure Hotspots in Oban
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and sea spray, essential regardless of the season.
all specific
Warm Layers
Vital to stay comfortable in the cool sea breeze, especially in spring and fall.
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Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and catch distant details on the loch’s shorelines.
all specific
Camera with Zoom Lens
Capture highland landmarks and wildlife without losing detail.
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