UK Sea Kayak Trips

Mingulay, Barra & 
The Atlantic Edge

This unique Scottish expedition is a superb journey in one of most remote, exposed and magical parts of the UK - aiming to paddle south from the Isle of Barra, exploring this remote, uninhabited and incredible island chain - Sandray, Pabay, Mingulay and Berneray. The islands sit on the exposed edge of the Atlantic Ocean, are steeped in history with a incredible array of wildlife.

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The islands sit at the southern end of the Outer Hebrides, and are truly at “The Atlantic Edge” of the UK, exposed to the Atlantic swell from the west. The eastern sides of the islands offer landings on incredible white sand beaches, whilst the exposed western sides have awe inspiring towering cliffs over 150m, rock architecture, arches and an amazing exposed feel. The feeling of specialty at the end of the chain under the 18m Barra Head Lighthouse (constrcuted in 1833), with nothing but open sea, is indescribable.

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The island of Mingulay will be a key destination for our paddle, which is often referred to as “The other St. Kilda.” The island was lived on until 1912, and the remains of the old village, and old school, are well worth exploring to truly get a sense of what it was like to live on such a remote, exposed and beautiful island. A walk up to the top of the island’s hills to gaze out across the Atlantic with towering cliffs beneath you is also fantastic, ideally time to catch hopefully a stunning sunset out to the west.

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With the remote location comes an array of sea and bird life - cetaceans such as whales, basking sharks, Atlantic grey seals are regular sightings in these waters, whilst sea bird colonies are abundant on the cliffs of the west coast - gannets, skewers, puffins, guillemots and so many more.

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The conditions often mean long period Atlantic swell is commonplace here, and the sounds between the islands also have strong tides running - which makes this a suitably fulfilling and challenging expedition for the intermediate+ paddler. We will always aim to make the very best decisions, and aim to enjoy the right level of challenge, paddling in these waters.

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It truly is one of the most majestic places in the world to explore by sea kayak!

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Outline Itinerary

Day 1 - Meet in Oban mid-morning (unless you wish to extend your stay on the Western Isles) for the early afternoon ferry to Castlebay.  Boats and kit will be taken over by Paddle International vehicle, and you board the ferry as a foot passenger (cost not included)

On arrival on Isle of Barra we will travel by Paddle International vehicle to a public campsite on the Isle of Vatersay

Day 2-6 - Expedition, wild camping as we go.  We return to Vatersay on the evening of Day 6 to spend the night at the campsite once again

Day 7 - Catch the early morning ferry from Castlebay back to Oban (unless you wish to extend your stay in the Western Isles.)  

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Itinerary is an outline only, and dependent of weather conditions.

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Click the link below to register your interest and request a more detailed information pack for the trip, which includes all of the finer details.

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Who the trip is for

The trip is suitable for Intermediate+ Sea Kayakers

• Comfortable paddling in Force 4 winds and 1 metre swell, with plenty of coastal journey experince

• Well practiced ability to get back in your kayak with assistance in the event of a deep water rescue

• Experience of wild camping and living out of a sea kayak on a multi-day expedition

• A good level of fitness for days on the water, with the ability to paddle up to a possible 5 hours a day.

Please ask if you are unsure if this is the right trip for you.

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What's Included​

• A programme of online meet ups in the build up to the trip

• 2 Nights campsite stay at Vatersay - 1 night before and 1 night after the expedition

• Transport of boat, paddle and kit from the Oban, and whilst on Western Isles. Boat hire available from us at extra cost.

• All meals from breakfast on Day 2 to evening meal on Day 6. There is the option for a meal out in Castlebay on evening of Day 6, but this would be at your own cost.

• Coaching, guiding and involvement in our risk management process

• WhatsApp group membership, with contact readily available pre and post trip to ask questions and chat with other team members

• Emergency equipment, Satellite mapping and communications

• Access to discounts on some gear and clothing

• Option to use one of our fleet of Terra Nova tents at extra cost

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What's Not Included

• Ferry ticket Oban to Castlebay and return (foot passenger)

• Any extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances.

• Bar bills

• Some personal clothing and equipment

• Non Expedition Meals

• Tips

• Boat hire is available if needed

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Dates & Prices

7 Day Trip

2025 Dates: 31st July - 6th August

Price: £650 per person

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Booking​​