Basking Shark Map

FAQ’s

Swimming Fingal's cave

The boat


What is the boat like?

Our main boat is ‘Cearban Mhor’, she is a 12m Redbay Cabin RIB built for the Atlantic conditions! She has been custom-built for our wildlife tours and has a large viewing platform to watch wildlife, as well as an enclosed indoor space to give you the best of both worlds.

You can see more about Cearban Mhor and our other boats here.

How many people will be on board?

Cearban Mhor can take up to 12 guests, our smaller boat Cearban Beg can take a maximum of 10. You will be accompanied by 1 guide and skipper.

We can provide charter services for larger groups with two other boats offering 12 spaces each.

Is there a toilet on board?

Our boats have an emergency chemical toilet on board. They have a limited capacity and use should be kept to a minimum. There are toilets at the pier for all of our locations for use before and after tours. Please note Cearban Beg, which is mostly used for scuba diving trips, does not have a toilet.

How do we get ashore?

At both Oban and Tobermory marinas the boat is accessible by pontoon so you can step on board. Boarding the boat in Coll is more challenging, you will need to board the boat by a pier ladder as we can get some very large tidal height changes in the harbour.

Ladder at Coll Pier, Hebrides, Scotland

There may be occasions when we need to use a dinghy to take you to the boat or shore, we will do this during visits to the seabird colony. You will need to have a level of fitness that allows you to climb in and out of the dinghy. The landings at the seabird colony can be challenging as there is no pier or fixed structure to land on. There is a short walk up from the shoreline which is very rocky, please get in touch if you have any concerns about accessibility.

landing at Lunga, Treshnish Isles, Isle of Mull, Scotland

 

Can I book the boat for a private charter?

Yes, we can offer a wide range of charter services and bespoke tours. Please get in touch if you have any ideas or would like to know more about our services. Here are just some ideas to get you started!

We have a range of water sports equipment so you can add swimming, snorkelling, kayaking or paddle-boarding options into your itinerary.

We have worked regularly with media groups and can offer a range of filming services. See here for more details.

Please note our peak season fills up quickly, for basking shark charters please book well in advance.

What about safety?

Safety on board our boats is our absolute priority. Our boats are all well maintained and have all the appropriate safety equipment as well as emergency oxygen and first aid. Our experienced team are all rescue and first aid trained and will always be on hand to help. Our skippers each have decades of experience in the local area and are well used to the local sea conditions and weather.

You will be given a safety briefing and orientation on your first day on board, and a briefing before any in-water activities. Our friendly team will always be there to answer your questions and help where needed.

Is the boat sheltered?

All of our boats have a sheltered area to keep you protected from the elements. Once we are swimming or snorkelling you won’t be able to enter the cabin in your wet gear so make sure you bring layers and sun protection to keep yourself comfortable.