NW Scotland: Where Can I Leave the Boat ?

[peterjb]

Addict that I am, just having taken the boat out of the water, I am already planning next summer's cruise ! We're gradually, very gradually, sailing round Britain. From May to September we sail for 3 or 4 weeks then go home for 3 weeks garden/granny maintenance. So each year we need 3 or 4 places where we can leave the boat safely for about 3 weeks. We're overwintering in the Clyde and next year hope to get as far as the Orkneys. We've already spent this year "doing" the Clyde and the Inner Hebrides. Next year is Skye, the Outer Hebrides and "round the corner". Our first 3 week "layup" will be in Arisaig; our last will be in Stromness. However, I can't see where there are facilities where we could leave Footloose securely between these two spots. Any advice gratefully received !

 

[Sadlermike]

Depends on the level of security you seek. Boats are frequently left for several weeks at Lochinver but there are no security gates. However, I have never heard of problems with boats left there. Inexpensive, sheltered and (by NW Scotland standards) reasonable public transport links.

 

[AngusMcDoon]

I second Lochinver. The HM was helpful when I was there last, and will keep an eye on things. Don't think that the lack of anti-scrote security is a problem as it's a pretty scrote free place. The wind/weather security is much more important up there.

Kinlochbervie could be another option, but the pontoon situation wasn't as good - may be improved now. Another helpful and understanding HM.

 

[Quandary]

Loch Inver

Another recommendation for Loch Inver,while the pontoons are open access and popular for fishing there are security cameras all over the harbour area including the pontoons, when you call in the office the first thing they do is zoom up your boat.
For a cheaper alternative, the harbour master at Gairloch (Flowerdale pier) also oversees some moorings in Shiedaig bay which were originally laid by Highland Council for winter refuge for fishing boats but are now sometimes available for yachts. All Highland Council pontoons and moorings are now overseen from Loch Inver and if you e,mail the Council Office (in the hotel overlooking the harbour, forgotten the name, Gulag or similar?) they will help you.

 

[spuddog]

Its the Culag Hotel,nearly got it.

 

[SAWDOC]

Hello Peter
Sounds like a very interesting means of cruising. Are you keeping any blog of places/ experiences en route?

Bluemoment has lots of Scottish members and may be useful if you are not already participating.

Good luck - hope to follow in your wake some day.

 

[peterjb]

Thanks for the advice. Lochinver sounds good. Has anyone any experience or advice about leaving a boat in Ullapool?

 

[NorthUp]

Ullapool is pretty exposed, there are no pontoons. The anchorage is pretty crowded, though you mght be able to use a local mooring.
Busses run to Inverness at least twice a day for onward links.

If you want to fly home via Inverness/ Glasgow or Edinburgh, Stornoway has the connections, and pontoons.

 

[webcraft]

Ullapool

.
Ullapool is not yacht-friendly at all I am afraid. I would agree with others that Lochinver is your best bet, but transport links are not good.

- W