Author: abby

Scotland’s West Coast Islands: Britain’s last Wildernesses

Off the west coast of Scotland are some of Britain’s last wildernesses: remote islands with rugged coastlines, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife. Caledonian MacBrayne operates the ferry services linking the islands and peninsulas to the mainland, and the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination.

Watch from the deck as the islands rise out of the sea, enjoy the fjord-like experience of sailing through the Sounds and keep an eye out for whales and dolphins swimming nearby. Equivalent Road Tariff pricing for Scottish ferries means that crossing to the islands is very good value for money, whether you choose to board as a foot passenger or bring your car.

We’ve asked our island experts what they would recommend when visiting the islands:

Isle of Arran – Andy McNamara, Advanced Sea Kayak Leader and owner of adventure tour operator, Otter’s Tail

Must visit beach:

Kildonan beach, known as ‘Silver Sands’ is one of Arran’s most beautiful beaches. Is it also a great spot to see seals and otters, who sometimes put in an appearance.

Must experience:

Holy Isle, Credit Monika Thoms Unsplash

A “Grand Tour” of Lamlash Bay with experienced Otter’s Tail guides Andy and Elanor McNamara, Britain’s first “No Take Zone,” where marine life is fully protected, as featured on David Attenborough’s Ocean. It’s the ultimate 12km kayaking expedition and 7km summit hike up Holy Isle’s Mullach Mòr, from where you can see the finest panoramic views of the Arran mountains. Holidaymakers can see seals, otters, and even basking sharks in a bay where marine life has staged a miraculous recovery.

Must see:

Lochranza Castle, Credit: Graham H Pixabay

The Isle of Arran is home to the ‘Big 5’: Golden Eagle, Red Deer, Common Seal, Otter and Red Squirrel. The woodlands in the grounds of Brodick Castle are home to Red Squirrel hides, and along The String, a road between Brodick and Tarnacraig, you can often see Red Deer. Seals and otters are frequently spotted along the rocky shores around Kildonan and Golden Eagles have often been seen in the hills above the Lochranza distillery.

Must eat:

The Arran Cheese Shop produces award winning cheeses including Arran Blue, Arran Camembert, Arran Brie and also a range of flavoured Cheddars. These are a must try for any cheese lover.

Arran Cheese Shop Credit VisitScotland

Getting there

Caledonian MacBrayne sails from Ardrossan to Brodick 4 times a day, the journey takes approximately 55 mins and can be combined with train travel from Glasgow. Keep your eyes peeled and you may see porpoises or dolphins as the ferry heads across the firth. Return adult tickets cost from £10.60.

Isle of Mull – Emma MacDonald, open water swim coach and owner of Wild Hebridean Swimming

Must visit beaches:

Calgary Bay, the largest and most accessible beach on the island, is in a horseshoe bay with clear water and a white sand beach. For those not brave enough to go into the water there is an art trail that winds down to the beach with unique art installations and sculptures along the way.

Uisken Beach, in the south of the island, is in a little cove with small rocky outcrops around the bay. Known for its turquoise, calm waters and white sand. The hill to the east of the beach is worth the walk up to see the neighbouring islands of Colonsay, Jura and Islay.

Must experience:

Swimming retreat in Mull, Credit Wild Hebridean Swimming

Connect with the landscape, the history and the water on a guided wild swimming and cold-water immersion experience on the Isle of Mull with Wild Hebridean Swimming. Swim in a landscape shaped 60 million years ago by volcanic activity, and in places that have been the centre of spirituality for over a thousand years. Whether you are new to cold water swimming and want to give it a try, or you’re an experienced swimmer who would like to explore the waters with a guide, this is unique way to experience the island.

Must see:

Tobermory, Credit John Mcmillan Unsplash

The Isle of Mull’s main town of Tobermory, has colourful painted houses, a picturesque harbour and a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. For experienced cold water swimmers, head out into the harbour for some of the best views of the town, but be aware that the harbour is a working harbour and can get busy.

A half-mile walk from the centre is Aros Park, where you can walk the woodland trails, see waterfalls and views over Tobermory and the Sound of Mull. There are even free-to-use barbeque points.

Must eat:

The Creel Seafood Bar, Credit VisitScotland

Creel Seafood Bar, Fionnphort serves fresh seafood, caught locally in the waters surrounding Mull and Iona. It’s a popular place, with views over the beach.

Hebridean Lodge in Tobermory offers lunch boxes and take away meals to heat at home using local produce.

Getting there

Caledonian MacBrayne sails from Oban to Craignure 10 times a day, the journey takes approximately 1 hour. From the deck you’ll see spectacular views of Duarte Castle and the Sound of Mull.  Return adult tickets cost from £9.80.

From the spectacular cliffs of the Alabaster Coast to fresh fish and seafood in Normandy’s best foodie market – as recommended by our ferry experts

Veules les Roses seafront, cliff © Marie-Anaïs Thierry

Normandy combines a spectacular coastline, quintessential French villages, a great local food scene dominated by fresh fish and seafood, cheese and cider, and a history intertwined with the UK. From William of Normandy’s conquest on England in 1066 to the D-Day landings during the Second World War, Britain’s connections to this region go back a long way.

Our experts provide their recommendations for this wonderful region.

Must see beaches

Pontoons of the artificial harbour of Aromanches © Valentin Pacaut – The Explorers

Whether you’re looking for a bucket and spade day on a quiet beach away from the crowds, a dramatic coastal cliff-top walk, or to discover more about the WWII, there is a beach for you in Normandy.

Our experts recommend:

“Discover this secret beach in Sotteville-sur-Mer. Walking from the town, before the steps that lead down to the beach, take the farm track on the right and walk for almost one kilometre. Then, you’ll find a small path on the right with ropes to help you climb down. There you’ll find a beautiful little beach, perfect for peace and quiet.” Guilhem Ridel, DFDS Retail Manager Dieppe/Newhaven

“Take the stunning cliff walkthat follows the coastal path from Le Tilleul beach (also known as Antifer beach) to the cliffs of Étretat. Enjoy the lovely sea views along the way.” Sebastien Bonvalet, DFDS Commercial Experience Manager, Western Channel.

We recommend:

Immerse yourself in the events of D-Day with a visit to Gold Beach at Arromanches-les-Bains. At low tide you will see the remains of Port Mulberry, the artificial landing ports used during the invasion of France. Walk along the cliffs to Cap Manvieux for panoramic views over the town and the sea.

Must visit attractions

Veules-les-Roses Credit MrsBrown Pixabay

As one of France’s most beautiful villages, Veules-les-Roses is a must see on a trip to Normandy.Think traditional half-timbered houses, flower gardens, water mills alongside France’s smallest river, with a little wooden bridge crossing it, a village grocery store and cute restaurants that specialise in local oysters and fresh fish. Walk up to the top of the cliffs for views of the village and across the sea.

The oldest arboretum in France is located in the grounds of the medieval Château d’Harcourt, which dates back to the 12^th century. You’ll find over 2,000 trees and 500 different species, some of which have been there since the arboretum was founded in 1826. Take a picnic and enjoy a shaded stroll around the grounds.

“For birdwatching, the Quiberville-sur-Mer estuary and wetlands is ideal for spotting coastal and migratory birds such as gannets, shags, oystercatchers, plovers, and sandpipers.” Guilhem Ridel, DFDS Retail manager Dieppe/Newhaven

Must eat and drink

Marché de Dieppe © B. Collier

Our expert Sebastien Bonvalet, Commercial experience manager Western Channel at DFDS, recommends:

Dieppe’s Saturday market is one of the most famous in Normandy and a key stop off for foodies. It features local producers selling seafood, fruit and veg, local cheeses and cider. Dieppe is particularly famous for its scallops, which can be brought fresh from the market.

conVives in Dieppe city centre is run by run by a young chef who focuses on fresh, seasonal products.”

Just 8km from Dieppe is the fantastic Restaurant La Gare Envermeu.”

While Guilhem Ridel, Retail Manager, DFDS Dieppe/ Newhaven recommends:

Bar Epicerie le Doris, Le Bourg-Dun, offers great value for money and en-route to / from the Quiberville-sur-Mer estuary and wetlands.

Coquilles Saint Jacques with asparagus

Getting there

Easily accessible by ferry: sail directly from Newhaven to Dieppe with DFDS, or from Portsmouth to Caen (Ouistreham) or Le Havre with Brittany Ferries, or sail from Dover to Calais with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries.

We recommend:

If travelling south from Calais, swap the motorway for the D940. It’s one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Europe, winding through the ‘Two Caps’ (Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez) with panoramic views back to the UK.

Cap Blanc Nez

Our expert recommends:

“Enjoy a coffee at sunrise, or a slice of pizza in summer while watching the sunset on the outside deck on Deck 7. Simple moments that make time on board special.” (DFDS Newhaven to Dieppe) Sebastien Bonvalet, DFDS Commercial Experience Manager, Western Channel.

Ways to save

• Book ferry travel in advance.
• Sail at off-peak times. Consider travelling mid-week, early morning or late at night.
• If travelling through Dover- Calais with your vehicle, you pay for the vehicle, not the number of passengers. Up to 9 passengers can usually travel on that ticket.
• Make the most of your Duty-Free allowance to fill your boot.
• Avoid the motorway tolls by taking the scenic route, you’ll see more of the country and save money.
• Many restaurants have fixed-price menus at lunchtime, these are a great way to try the local specialities at a great price.

Isle of Wight – the most authentic experiences as recommended by our experts

Yaverland Beach, Credit Visit Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight emerged as a fashionable holiday destination in the mid-nineteenth century after Queen Victoria bought Osborne House as her summer residence and became a frequent visitor to the island. In those days, visitors to the island arrived by steam train and paddle steamer. Rail-sail is still a popular way to access the island today, but with modern, speedier and more comfortable vessels.

To give you the insider intel, we’ve asked our experts to share their top tips on the most authentic experiences the island has to offer.

Must see beaches

Dinosaur fossils at Brook Bay, Credit Visit Isle of Wight

As an island of just 22 miles wide and 13 miles long, the Isle of Wight has many beach locations to explore. It’s a free day-out whatever the time of year.

Our experts recommend:

“I like the lesser known Whitecliff Bay, framed by Culver Down, offering a quieter experience. It’s a lovely little place, well sheltered from the prevailing winds, safe and there is space for you to relax a bit. As a family we have spent hours combing the beach looking for spectacular small bits of sea glass – often nicknamed mermaid tears. We have collected so much of it over the years, every new tide seems to replenish the sand with more little gems! Watching the sunset from Culver Cliff is also magical and surprisingly doesn’t attract huge crowds of people.” Captain Dave Booker, Wightlink

“Beaches are abundant across the Island but my favourite is at Ryde, as it has soft sand, lots of space particularly at low tide, with plenty of cafés and amenities including a children’s play park on the beach. “ Captain Nick Wood, Chief Hovercraft Pilot, Hovertravel

“The Wealden beds are famous for their dinosaur remains. They emerge along the south west coast in a long stretch from Compton to Atherfield. These areas are where all the best fossils have been found, and are great places to go fossil hunting.” Neil Chapman, Chief of Operations, Red Funnel

We recommend:

21-shades of sand – swerve the chairlift and take the 185 steps down to Alum Bay, famous for its multi-coloured sand cliffs. Arrive by bus to avoid the parking fees!

Must see wildlife and nature

Coastal views from Culver Down, Credit Visit Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight was awarded UNESCO Biosphere status in 2019, which recognises the unique combination of nature, people and places on the Island, where communities and the environment work together in an increasingly sustainable way.

Cliff-top coastal paths, wetlands, forests and downs provide varied walking and cycling routes across the island.

Our experts recommend:

“My favourite walk is to follow the Isle of Wight Coastal Path from Whitecliff Bay to Bembridge. Lots of beautiful, elevated sea views and walking through unspoilt fields and meadows.” Captain Dave Booker, Wightlink

“Parkhurst Forest near Newport is a real gem for wildlife. One of the oldest forests in the country, it’s a fantastic spot if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a red squirrel. It’s also part of the Red Squirrel Trail, 32 miles of mostly traffic‑free cycling through the heart of the Isle of Wight. Along the way you pass estuaries, woodland, farmland, rolling downland and even stretches of the Island’s stunning coastline, so there’s plenty to enjoy even if the squirrels stay shy.” Claire Harding, Wightlink

Must visit for families:

Robin Hill Country Park, Credit Visit Isle of Wight

A perennial favourite bucket-and-spade destination, the Isle of Wight has plenty of family-friendly activities, including Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest theme park.  

Our experts recommend:

“There is so much to do at Tapnell Farm Park. The kids love the giant pillow, the go-karts and the alpacas.

“A firm family favourite is racing down the toboggans at Robin Hill Country Park. It’s all about seeing who can get to the bottom fastest, with plenty of laughter, a bit of healthy competition and us getting braver every single time!” Claire Harding, Wightlink

We recommend:

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary – home to over 100 rescued donkeys and ponies near Wroxall, the animal sanctuary allows you to learn more about these gentle and affectionate creatures. There are free guided tours during the school holidays, and there’s the opportunity to purchase an extra special experience while you’re there, where an expert will guide you to groom, feed and muck out the animals.

Must eat and drink:

The Hut, Colwell Bay, Credit Visit Isle of Wight

Producers such as the Isle of Wight Cheese Company, Isle of Wight Tomatoes, The Garlic Farm and Mermaid Gin have truly put the island on the foodie map. Many local restaurants and cafes use seasonal and locally sourced produce, so you won’t get food any fresher.

Our experts recommend:

“For breakfast, the winner for me is Briddlesford Farm. It’s the best place I’ve ever been for breakfast in the entire UK! The quality of the food is exceptional, the coffee is great, and the staff even allow you to swap an item of two so you can curate your perfect full English! If you’re hungry the Farmer’s Feast is a must. Visit the farm shop and animal petting area afterwards.” Captain Dave Booker., Wightlink

“We always go back to The Blacksmiths just outside Newport. There are panoramic views from its high vantage point over the northern part of the Island, the Solent and onto the New Forest, Southampton and Portsmouth. The food is delicious and there is always a specials board in addition to the excellent main menu.” Captain Dave Booker, Wightlink

“Colwell Bay has the best sunsets in the South of England. Watch the sun go down with a plate of fish & chips from beachside restaurant, The Hut.” Neil Chapman, Red Funnel

“Adgestone Vineyard recently appeared on TV with the BBC’s ‘Apprentice’ and is well worth a stop. It’s a beautiful, small, quiet vineyard with a lovely shop and bar. The staff are very pleasant and helpful as well. We purchased a bottle of their famous ‘Something Blue’ sparkling wine.” Captain Dave Booker, Wightlink

“The Smoke House at Robin Hill ticked all the boxes: relaxed, welcoming and brilliant value. We tucked into a BBQ platter fresh off the grill, piled high with big flavours and generous portions, while the kids loved the laid‑back vibe.” Claire Harding, Wightlink

Must see views from the ferry

Red Funnel approaching Cowes

Red Funnel: Southampton – Cowes

“The holiday starts as soon as you set sail from Southampton, go out on deck and you won’t be able to miss Hythe Pier, the 640m long pier on the western side of Southampton Water, it’s the 7^th longest in Britain! Then on the eastern side you’ll glimpse Netley Chapel, all that remains of one of Britain’s first purpose-build hospitals. Built for veterans of the Crimea War between 1856 and 1863, but demolished after a fire in 1966, the ruins of the Chapel form part of Royal Victoria Country Park.” Neil Chapman, Red Funnel

Super off-peak day return with Red Funnel (travel after 10:55) from £14 when 2 or more people travel together, a family day return from £48.90, or if you want to stay a bit longer, you can get a short stay return from £27.40 per person.

Wightlink: Portsmouth to Fishbourne, Portsmouth to Ryde Pier, Lymington to Yarmouth

“Wightlink’s Portsmouth Gunwharf to Fishbourne route is blessed with many fantastic landmarks.  Outbound on your port side you will see The Round Tower in the Harbour Entrance, the Royal Garrison Church and Southsea Castle. To starboard you’ll spot Spitbank Fort, Fort Gilkicker and the Isle of Wight across the Solent. Once past Gosport and heading across the main shipping channels in the central Solent, views of Quarr Abbey, Ryde Pier and Osborne House punctuate the spectacular coastline of the Isle of Wight.

“Inbound you’ll see Portsmouth Harbour, including two spectacular towers (The Spinnaker and ‘Lipstick’). As you head into the harbour, catch glimpses of our naval heritage including HMS Warrior and HMS Victory in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the submarine HMS Alliance in Haslar Marina. If you are lucky, you might also see one of the two Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers docked at the Naval Base.” Captain Dave Booker, Wightlink

From £28.20 for a day-return

Hovertravel: from Southsea to Ryde

“Travelling by hovercraft is the fastest and coolest way to start a staycation; the route skims past 1860s sea forts and Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower.” Captain Nick Wood, Chief Hovercraft Pilot

Advanced day return from £30.60 per person, an advanced period return from £41.40 or an advanced family day return from £65 (2 adults & up to 3 children 5-15yrs)

Ways to Save

• Book in advance;
• Consider combining ferry and accommodation, or ferry and attraction tickets to save money;
• Vehicle fares include the vehicle and up to 7 passengers, so if you are travelling in a group, then going by car offers great value and the easiest way to see the island;
• Foot passenger day trip ferry tickets are from as little as £14 return on Red Funnel for the Super Off-Peak day return

It’s official: these are the most “sea-nic” ferry routes

Ahead of Ferry Sail-ebration Day on 22 February, aligned with the European Day of Ferries*, we have released the ten most scenic and iconic ferry routes. These can all be accessed from ports across Britain and highlight the most beautiful and culturally significant routes that connect the UK to the rest of the world.

While today’s ships can offer comfortable passage year-round, the 22 February is historically noted as the time when sea trade reopens in northern Europe after the winter thaw. The date also coincides with The Feast of the Chair of St Peter, who is closely associated with seafarers. By aligning sail-ebrations with our European partners we are honouring our shared maritime heritage and the centuries-old business and leisure connections the UK has with Europe thanks to sea travel.

The UK’s most scenic and iconic ferry routes

1) France to Dover: Bluebirds or not, sailing towards the White Cliffs from Northern France will take every traveller’s breath away as they approach the UK. The chalk cliffs have been immortalised in culture as the Gateway to England and are the welcome home every Brit should see at least once. Sail in from Calais or Dunkirk with DFDS, Irish Ferries or P&O Ferries.

Crossing the Channel to see the White Cliffs of Dover

2) Oban to Castlebay on Barra: Described as Britain’s fjords, this Hebridean waterway boasts jagged coastlines, ancient castles and a glimpse of the colourful seafront homes in Tobermory. Journey through the Sound of Mull before entering the open sea to Barra with Caledonian MacBrayne.

“Britain’s Fjords” in the Outer Hebrides, credit Dennis Hardley ©Tony Hardley Photography

3) Holyhead to Dublin: A voyage of epic proportions as the sea is bookended by mountains. Passengers can wave goodbye to the mountains of Snowdonia as the so-called Irish Alps, the Wicklow Mountains, enter view. Dublin’s iconic Poolbeg Lighthouse, long recognised as a symbol of home will welcome ships into the capital. Day trips start from £10 with Irish Ferries or Stena Line.

The “Irish Alps” from Dublin port, credit Royal Dublin Golf Course

4) Penzance to The Isles of Scilly: From the Cornish coast, the Atlantic deep blue transforms into crystal clear waters that rival the Caribbean on the way to this sub-tropical archipelago. Named the best ferry route for wildlife spotting for four years in a row by marine conservation charity ORCA, passengers should look out for whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals en route. 2026 is the final year to sail across on the iconic ship, Scillonian III, which has served the islands for over 40 years and will be replaced next year.

Scillonian III leaving St Mary’s harbour, credit Isles of Scilly Travel

5) Lymington to Yarmouth: Leave the New Forest’s picturesque fishing harbour behind and pass Hurst Castle as the ship heads towards the Isle of Wight. On a clear day the Needles, three iconic stacks of chalk rock, are visible from the deck. Before long Yarmouth’s historic pier – England’s longest timber pier – enters view. Travel with Wightlink at dusk for spectacular sunset views and arrive on the island in time to stargaze in its Dark Sky areas.

Yarmouth aerial view, credit Wightlink

6) Arriving in medieval Saint-Malo: Reaching this walled Breton city from the sea allows travellers to see the granite ramparts and ancient spires, appear ethereally from the waves. It is said, “A wave of emotion washes over anyone who beholds Saint-Malo, so striking and proud…Spellbinding!”. Travel with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth or Guernsey, or with DFDS from Jersey.

Arriving in Saint-Malo, credit Brittany Ferries

7) Embankment to Greenwich: A hop‑on hop‑off Uber Boat by Thames Clippers trip along the river gives you front‑row views of London’s most iconic sights. Board at Westminster Pier to pass Houses of Parliament. Glide past the Shard, the historic Tower of London, and Tower Bridge before heading onto historic Greenwich to explore the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. The Tate Modern, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye all appear in striking perspective from the water.

A twilight cruise past London’s iconic sights, credit Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

8) Southampton to Cowes: The spiritual home of yachting and a premier sailing destination, Cowes’ pretty harbour offers views full of Victorian charm and prestigious maritime heritage. The “Chain Ferry” or Floating Bridge is a unique Isle of Wight service that connects the ferry terminal in East Cowes to West Cowes, saving travellers an 11-mile trip by road. Sail from Southampton with Red Funnel.

Arriving in Cowes, credit Red Funnel

9) Heysham to Isle of Man: Watch the dramatic hills of the Lake District and Morecambe’s sandy beach disappear from view on the approach to the Isle of Man. Nicknamed the Jewel of the Irish Sea for its vibrant green landscape, look out for the Tower of Refuge on Conister Rock. Built on partially submerged reef in Douglas Bay, the structure was created by RNLI founder William Hillary to offer shelter to shipwreck victims as they awaited rescue. Sail with Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

Tower of Refuge, Douglas harbour, credit Isle of Man Steam Packet Company

10) Sailing into Rotterdam: Fans of modern architecture will appreciate the cinematic entry into the city billed as the “New York of Northern Europe” thanks to its skyline. However, arriving by sea offers a view often unseen by many visitors, head out on deck as the ship nears land. Hugging the shoreline, the journey gives unparalleled views of the rugged sand dunes along the Dutch coast and preserved WW2 Atlantikwall bunker. Opt for an overnight sailing to enjoy the arrival in the morning sunlight. Sail with P&O Ferries from Hull or with Stena Line from Harwich.

Atlantikwall Museum and sand dunes at Hook of Holland

And, for a truly iconic sci-fi worthy sail take Europe’s only commercial hovercraft from Portsmouth to Ryde for the fastest journey across the Solent with Hovertravel. From the skirt inflation to whizzing across the waves and arriving on the esplanade, every moment of the short journey will stick in your memory.

Hovertravel hovercraft approaching Ryde

Ferry Sail-ebration Day shows that ferry travel is not just a mode of transport but a premier sightseeing platform. There are so many fantastic sights on our doorstep, from Britain’s own Hebridean fjords to the turquoise waters and white sands of the Isles of Scilly, these routes offer a visual scale that other forms of travel simply cannot replicate.

*Co-ordinated by Gemany’s Association of Ferry Shipping and Tourism, Verband der Fährschiffahrt und Fährtouristik (VFF).