21st – 28th June 2025, Mallaig – Stornoway £895
Teaming up with photographer, film maker and Sail Britain crew member Tom Sweetland, our focus this week will be on photography and storytelling through images, and of course with expert sailing tuition and wild-guiding from Sail Britain’s founder, Oliver Beardon as we explore the Scottish Islands.
On a journey to discover and document the ocean’s beauty above and below the waves, spanning both the Inner and Outer Hebrides, we’ll visit some of the incredible wilderness and wildlife found here, with our expert crew sharing tips and experience on the best techniques, both technical and creative, and how to weave this together to create a portfolio of beautiful and striking images.
With plenty of time to practice and explore, the week will have a loose theme highlighting the beauty and importance of the UK’s marine landscape. The time of year is perfect for sightings of Basking Sharks, whales and dolphins, as well as seabirds.
Combining adventure sailing with learning or honing your photography skills, this week will give participants a unique opportunity to experience the ocean from a new perspective. Our route this year from Mallaig up to Stornoway takes in some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery, and we’re hoping to make a stop at the Shiant Isles, a remote group of islands home to vast numbers of seabirds. In few other places around our coasts are you treated to such a feast for the eyes!
The week is suitable for photographers of all levels, bring along whatever camera equipment you have and Tom will help you get the best out of your kit and how to train your creative eye.
About our Trip Leader
Tom Sweetland is an award winning independent film maker, writer and director. He is passionate about creating authentic human-based stories that can challenge perceptions, and create an open discord on sensitive subjects.
He sailed as a crew member with Sail Britain in 2021, and made the stunning short film Under the Surface which tells the story of our week onboard. We are really excited to explore further with this trip!
Practical information:
- Start point – Mallaig (The crew will send details with exactly where to find Merlin on the day of arrival)
- Start time – Saturday 21st June, 6pm
- End point – Stornoway
- End time – Saturday 28th June, 9am
What’s included:
- Fully equipped yacht and professional crew
- 7 nights accommodation onboard
- All meals for the week
- All safety equipment and training
What’s not included
- Your travel to and from the start/end points of the voyage
- Travel insurance
- Any expenses ashore, although these tend to be very limited out in the wilds!
For more info have a look at our FAQs page for an insight into life onboard.