St Kilda / Hebrides Expedition
Based aboard the MV Cuma, a converted research vessel, we will make use of skipper Murdo Macdonald’s extensive local knowledge to access some of Scotland’s most spectacular kayaking. Our ultimate goal, if weather permits, is the remote archipelago of St Kilda, whose final inhabitants were evacuated in 1930. Should conditions not prove favourable for the crossing to St Kilda, we will instead explore the Outer Hebrides, which are in themselves a world-class destination boasting beautiful white-sand beaches and abundant wildlife.
St Kilda itself is made up of a mix of islands and sea stacks. It is home to some of the world’s most important seabird colonies, including the largest gannetry in the world and the biggest colony of Atlantic puffins in the UK. Added to this is the island’s heritage – St Kilda is the UK’s only dual UNESCO site, and a visit to Village Bay on Hirta, along with the associated museum, provides a fascinating insight into life on this inhospitable patch of land.
The kayaking
Paddling in St Kilda is about cliffs and sea stacks, arches and caves rather than distance. St Kilda is remote, and exposed to the full force of the Atlantic. Even on days with benign weather, we would expect to encounter swell around the islands. Although the distances being paddled may not be huge, landings are not always possible or easy. As such, this trip is for paddlers of intermediate level or above, who are comfortable in lumpy conditions.
If conditions are not suitable for the MV Cuma to make the crossing to St Kilda then we will explore areas of the Outer Hebrides, which provide many nooks and crannies in which to find shelter, with intricate coastlines and beautiful beaches.
The kayaking will be led by 2 guides for a maximum of 10 clients. The intention is that paddlers will be self-sufficient in terms of equipment (including kayak).
MV Cuma
The MV Cuma is a timber-hulled boat originally built for scientific research. She is 18.5m long, and powered by a 200bhp engine. A generator provides onboard power, and the boat is centrally heated throughout.
She sleeps 12 passengers (including 2 guides) in twin-berth cabins, plus 3 crew. Socialising takes place in a large deck saloon when not paddling, and there are 2 showers and 3 toilets on board. Food including breakfast, packed lunches and dinner is prepared daily on-board by the crew.
The practical things
2025 Dates: 14-20 June
Price: £1950
The trip meets and departs from Miavaig pontoon in West Loch Roag, Uig, on the Isle of Lewis. We will board the MV Cuma around 1pm on Saturday 14th June, have lunch and tidy up then depart. The MV Cuma will return to Miavaig on the evening of Thursday 19th June; we will stay aboard that night, and on the morning of Friday 20th we will have breakfast before departing.
The trip price includes accommodation in twin-bedded cabins on the MV Cuma, along with breakfast, packed lunches and dinner. Alcohol is not available on board but you are welcome to bring your own. Transport to and from Miavaig pier is not included, nor is kayak hire – if you require either of these things please let us know as we do have some (limited) capacity to provide.
If you are travelling solo, cabin accommodation will be shared with another passenger of the same sex.
If you have any strict or complex dietary requirements please let us know before booking so we can check with the MV Cuma whether these can be accommodated. If you have any potentially severe medical conditions please do bear in mind the remoteness of our location.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due 6 weeks before the start of the trip.
If you wish to book please email adventures@seakayakoban.com with an outline of your paddling experience.