There are many amazing places around Skye for sea kayaking, but this is why the south end is so special:
The Sleat peninsula is situated on the Sound of Sleat, the narrow passage between the mainland to the East and Skye. As Sleat is quite a narrow peninsula, it offers 2 sides within a short distance that we can choose from when deciding on the best location for kayaking. When the wind is coming from one side, we go to the other to enjoy the shelter from the land and the calm waters this creates. With crystal clear waters all around, sandy beaches, secluded coves, the south end has everything a sea kayaker can ask for.
The East Side
The East side of Sleat has the ferry port Armadale, where you arrive from Mallaig after crossing the Sound of Sleat. A small beach there is perfect for launching your kayak, especially for groups of beginners, as it offeres a sheltered bay and a stunning, beautiful coastline just minutes away, with an abundance of wildlife you can watch while you are out. A half day journey south takes you past the village of Ardvasar and towards Tormore, while enjoying views to Mallaig and Arisaig, where we often see the Jacobite Steam Train leave in the afternoon. There are countless little coves, only accessible by kayak or by a long walk, which gives us multiple options for leg stretches, beach combing and relaxing. Views soon open up to the Small Isles, the Isle of Eigg and Rhum. Sheltered from the westerly and southwesterly winds, it offers a calm journey ideal for families and novices, but if you carry on to the Point of Sleat, it is attractive to the more experienced sea kayaker as well, with rock hopping opportunities and more open waters. At the Point of Sleat, a big white sandy beach awaits you to treat you for your lunch break. Carribean like turquoise waters invite for a swim, while the waves lick the rocky foundation of the lighthouse.
Heading north from Armadale, a half day trip takes you to Ostaig, a big sandy beach, off the beaten track, popular with locals and only found by the most adventurous of visitors. Sightings of seals, otters and herons, as well as an abundance of other sea birds are a regular occurrance. A day trip north takes you past Armadale Castle (you can only see this from the water, not from the road), the Torabhaig Distillery, Knock Castle to Isle Ornsay with its beautiful Stevenson lighthouse. All while enjoying the majestic mountains of Knoydart and deep views into Loch Hourne on the far side of the Sound of Sleat. Encounters with dolphins, minke whales and porpoises are not unheard of in this area. Experienced kayakers looking for a long journey, can then carry on up to the fast flowing tidal narrows of Kylerea and Kyleakin.
Knoydart is known as one of the last wild places in Britain, with beautiful mountains and vast empty glens. Sparseley populated, it gives the impression of a real wild place, but it’s got a rich history of clans, clearances and land struggle.
The West Side
The West side of Sleat, with the villages of Ord, Tokavaig and Tarskavaig is the more rugged side, of which the south end is unpopulated and remote, except for the small community at the Point of Sleat itself. Its location on Loch Eishort offers shelter from the southerly wind and plenty options to explore the entirity of the inlet. With views to the majestic Cuillin of Skye, the Strath peninsula and the Isle of Rhum, there is always somewhere beautiful to gaze. On a day trip, you can visit the far side of Loch Eishort with its abandoned villages, Boreraig and Suishnish. The people of these two communities were forcibly cleared off the land in 1852 to make room for sheep farming. In Boreraig, the ruins of all 22 houses can still be seen today, and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic. After leaving Ord, there is a real sense of remoteness as you explore the southern shore. You won’t even meet walkers here.
On shorter trips, we can visit the castle of Dun Sgaith (Dùn Sgàthaich), which is steeped in legend of the warrior goddess Sgathach and the young hero Cù Chulainn. White sandy beaches and small islands give plenty of opportunity for stops and snack breaks.
What are you waiting for?
With most tourists travelling to the north of Skye to see the top 5 hotspots, the south is the quieter location, ideal for those who are looking to go off the beaten track. The roads are quiet, the views are beautiful and everything just moves at a slower pace, away from the crowds.
The easily accessible launch spots and its sheltered location with stunning views make the South of Skye ideal for sea kayaking, whether you’re a complete beginner, you’re looking for a fun day out with your family or you’re a seasoned kayaker in search of a longer, exhilerating journey. This means that we can get out on the water on most days and chance of cancellation is small. No launch point is far away from the populated areas of the peninsula, and a variety of cafés, restaurants and pubs will look after your energy levels.
Book your sea kayaking adventure in the south of Skye and embark on an Unforgettable Adventure!