Sea Kayak Expeditions

For most of human history, the sea was by far the easiest way to travel from one place to another. Water provided a link between communities we would now think of as remote, many of which have since disappeared. Our wild camping expeditions take full advantage of Scotland’s liberal access laws, allowing us to pack everything we need in our kayaks and head out to pitch our tents in wild and beautiful locations, often only reachable by boat. For those wanting a bit more comfort, our bunkhouse trips give us maximum flexibility to explore on a series of day trips.
 
Although some previous experience is required for all our expeditions, we try to cater to as many paddlers as possible. Expedition grades take into account distance and conditions, but also exposure: Improver level will generally stay relatively close to shore, while Intermediate / Advanced might head out on open crossings between islands, or head to places where there are fewer options for easy landing. We keep expedition group sizes small to minimise the environmental impact, maximise opportunities for wildlife sightings, and encourage paddlers to work together as a team.
 
We can also organise custom expeditions for groups or families, including those with younger children (maximum 6 people). Expeditions are only open to paddlers aged 16 and over other than for private trips.
 
Names in brackets after trip dates refer to the guides leading the expeditions.
 
If you’re not sure which expedition is right for you, email Laura on adventures@seakayakoban.com, or give us a call on 01631 565 310 to discuss. 
Sea Kayaker in cave

North West Scotland

Trip length: 6 days (5 paddling)

2026 Dates: 10-15 May

Cost: £1150

Level: Intermediate +

Guiding: 2 guides/coaches for max 8 clients (Laura B and George)

Discover some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Based out of a cosy bunkhouse in Durness, this is a chance for experienced paddlers to explore cliffs, caves, and sandy beaches, while developing their paddling skills in challenging environments.

Kayak on Hebridean beach

Outer Hebrides

Trip length: 7 days (6 paddling)

2026 Dates: 7-13 June

Cost: £1330

Level: Intermediate +

Guiding: 2 guides/coaches for max 8 clients (Laura B & George)

The Outer Hebrides sit on every Scottish paddler’s must-visit list, and for good reason. Based in a comfortable bunkhouse on the Isle of Lewis, this trip gives you the opportunity to discover some truly wild paddling, building up your own experience and ability as you go.

Kayakers paddling towards the Skye Cuillin

Isle of Skye

Trip length: 5 days

2026 Dates: 14-18 July

Cost: £950

Level: Improver – Intermediate

Guiding: 2 guides/coaches for max 8 clients (Laura B and George)

Skye’s varied and beautiful coastline is the perfect place to paddle. Based in a well-appointed bunkhouse on the island, you’ll experience the best Skye has to offer, while building your confidence in varied conditions.

Tent and sea kayak with paddler overlooking islands

Kerrera / Lynn of Lorn

Trip length: 2 days / 1 night

2026 Dates: 3/4 June (Laura B), 18/19 July (Kag), 6/7 August (George)

Cost: £280

Level: Improver

Guiding: 1 guide for max 6 clients

A gentle expedition exploring the coastal waters around Oban. We will be self-sufficient, carrying all we need in our kayaks and wild camping as we go. On the way we will keep a lookout for local wildlife such as otters, eagles and porpoises.

For those wishing to build up their skills prior to the trip, the 18/19 July dates can be combined with the Confidence Builder Course on 16th & 17th.

Firth of Lorn

Trip length: 3 days / 2 nights

2026 Dates: 23-25 May (Janek), 29-31 July (Janek), 5-7 Sept (Laura B)

Cost: £420

Level: Improver/Intermediate

Guiding: 1 guide for max 6 clients

A 3-day trip opens up a wonderful range of destinations, including several options for full circumnavigations – Lismore and several of the Inner Hebridean islands such as Luing, Scarba and Lunga are all accessible in that time.

Paddlers looking at tidal race

Slate Isles / Garvellachs

Trip length: 2 days / 1 night

2026 Dates: 20/21 June (Laura B), 15/16 August (Kag)

Cost: £300

Level: Intermediate / Advanced

Guiding: 1 guide for max 6 clients

For strong paddlers with a sense of adventure, the possibilities are endless. Working with the weather and tides, we will set out to make the most of the available conditions. We can paddle through some classic tidal gateways, including the Grey Dogs and the notorious Corryvreckan, stopping to play if we wish.

For those wanting a bit more excitement, the 20/21 June dates can be combined with our Falls of Lora Guided Play day on the 19th.

Kayaker holding wild scallop

Wild food & foraging

Trip length: 2 days / 1 night

2026 Dates: 26/27 September

Cost: £300

Level: Improver

Guiding: 1 guide & 1 chef for max 5 clients (Kag and Blackthorn)

Explore the world of wild food, discovering all the riches of our coastal and forest areas. Accompanied by a professional chef and a qualified kayak guide, both with extensive foraging experience.

Family expeditions

Trip length: variable

2026 Dates: on demand

Cost: variable

Level: Improver, age 8 upwards

Guiding: 1 guide for max 6 clients

Sea kayak expeditions are a fantastic way for families to explore the world and spend time together in the outdoors. Our stable double kayaks provide ample storage space for everything you might need, and as these are always private trips we can paddle at your pace.

Due to variable weather conditions, we strongly recommend everyone in the family is used to spending time outdoors; especially with younger children, parents will need sufficient kayaking experience to handle a fully loaded double kayak.