From the minute we joined the yacht "Aislig Bheag" on the 27th September 2025, we were made most welcome by the crew, John the skipper and Steve his assistant. We booked a weekend trip leaving Inverkip Marina and sailing around the Firth of Clyde and the Kyles of Bute. Whilst the heavy rain on the first day may have put a physical dampener on things, it didn't dampen our experiences the slightest. From the outset we were given the opportunity and encouraged to assist in the sailing of the vessel by steering, hoisting sails, anchoring and any other tasks required around the yacht. An opportunity that all the "guests" took up, as much as they felt the need. Despite the weather shortening the sailing time on the first day, we spent an enjoyable afternoon down in the cockpit, drinking tea and eating snacks whilst exchanging stories, and as John is a very experienced skipper, he had many tales to tell of his Trans-Atlantic and European trips. The two course evening meal was prepared by Steve, and given the reduced space to cook in, he produced a very enjoyable meal which was washed down by a glass or two of wine. The remainder of the evening was spent listening to music, getting to know the other guests and being introduced to a new entertaining card game which kept us amused. Then just before heading to our bunks, the rain stopped, and Steve told us to go out on deck and take a mug of water with us. Puzzled by his request we followed his instructions. Counting down from 5, we all threw our water into the sea and were exposed to a display of natural phosphorescence reflecting in the water- truly amazing. The skies continued to clear presenting an incredible celestial display of the Great Bear, the Milky Way and countless other constellations. On the surrounding close-by woods of the Isle of Bute, the roaring of the stags (we were in the middle of the rutting season), could be heard echoing across the silent night sky as they protected their hinds from other intruding males. It was the perfect end to a really great and enjoyable day, and whilst the cabin itself may have been rather "cosy”, it was very functional, with a double bunk, "ensuite", wash-hand basin, and was warm and comfortable We awoke to a totally different environment of clear blue skies, and low-lying clouds which enveloped the surrounding hills, leaving their tops to peak above like a misty crown. The deep roaring calls of the invisible stags could still be heard, warning off any encroaching rivals. As all this was going on a variety of sea birds were witnessed flying low across the water looking for their breakfast, whilst others plunged straight down from a great height, entering the water vertically making hardly a splash on its smooth shiny surface. Others sat proudly on the near-by navigation buoys, peering deeply into the water before disappearing into the murky depths, emerging successfully with a fish perched within its open beak. It was a sight to behold, and photograph. A bountiful breakfast was consumed around the table that we had shared the previous night, with a choice of cereal, yoghurt, morning rolls, bread, cheese and tea or coffee. Donning our waterproofs we made our way back on deck and assisted John to raise the anchor. As it was slowly hauled in, we made sure that any mud and seaweed was carefully washed away back into the sea by hosing it down with fresh water, prior to its storing in the chain locker. By now the sun was up high enough to let us feel its warm rays on our backs, something that was denied to us yesterday. The only thing missing from such a glorious morning was some wind, meaning that we had to set off on our voyage under power down the Kyles of Bute, passing the village of Tighnabruaich on our starboard side and then Etterick Bay on our port side, and out into the Sound of Bute. Arran could be seen towering above the smaller isles of Little and Great Cumbrae in the distance, with the distinctive peak of Holy Isle providing a good navigational reference point. During the passage we each took it in turn to steer the vessel, watching other yachts and boats out enjoying their Sunday morning sail. The sea remained calm and porpoise could be seen swimming about. An extremely large MSC container ship heading out from Greenock passed by, sending its extensive wake towards us making the yacht bob up and down as it passed below us. making it quite challenging for the helmsman. Sailing up the North Ayrshire coastline we could see the town of Largs to the stern of us as we sailed passed the village of Skelmorlie and approaching the ferry terminal at Wemyss Bay. It was at this point the skipper felt that the wind had increased enough to try the vessel under sail and hoisted the main sail before stopping the engine. This experience taught me that steering under sail is more difficult than under power, as going off course slightly could easily put the wind on the wrong side of the sail and losing any speed that had been gained. Under the skipper’s direction we tacked and gybed our way back to the approach to Inverkip Marina before restarting the engine and returning to the berth we had departed from about 30 hours before. This trip was given to me as a birthday present and far surpasses an earlier birthday gift of the opportunity for a trial flying lesson, something which I treasured for many years. This trip has been a great experience and a wonderful weekend, and if given the opportunity, anyone reading this should grab it with both hands. The skills imparted to you by the crew, the friendliness of all on board, and the sheer excellence of it all made it very enjoyable and worthwhile. I would thoroughly recommend it.

Exciting and challenging.. My niece and I thoroughly enjoyed or weekend cruise on the yacht from Oban. The other two passengers were great company and really enhanced our sailing experience. Everyone was given opportunities to do what they felt comfortable with when sailing. No pressure but what a sense of achievement when you attempted something you have never done before. Thank you.

Absolutely fantastic, an excellent yacht, very knowledgeable Skipper in Gordon, great food and amazing sailing.