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4.8
| 63 reviews

Kayak and Wild Camp the West Coast of Scotland

Paddle the remote bays, rugged coastline and crystal clear waters of the dramatic West Highlands

Duration

3 nights

Annual Leave

2 days off work

Group Size

Up to 7 people

Season

Apr—Sep

Location

United Kingdom

Meeting Point

Central Fort William

Classic Accommodation

Wild camping

Customer Reviews

(63)

4.8

Difficulty

Moderate

From

From

Paddle along stunning volcanic coastline, and wild camp on white sand beaches and islet-studded sea lochs

Discover hidden bays and wild skerries, eyes peeled for otters, porpoise, seals and sea eagles

Forage for shellfish, seaweed and coastal plants and brave the Atlantic Ocean for a cold water wild swim

One of the "Best adventure holidays in the UK for adrenaline seekers" according to The Independent

Day 1

To the sea!

Kayaking

8km

Please note, the route below is a sample itinerary. The actual route you paddle will be subject to the weather conditions at the time. The guides also vary the routes and camp spots used throughout the season to minimise environmental impact on any one location.

Meet your host in Fort William and drive for around 45 mins to Kinlochmoidart, perched on the remote Ardnamurchan Peninsula in the West Highlands. You'll then pack and launch your kayak onto the sheltered water of Loch Moidart for an introductory paddling and skills session, before gliding past the ruined Castle Tioram. Set up camp on the beach and enjoy your first night under the stars.

Day 2

To the beautiful beach of Smirisary

Kayaking

18km

Today is all about building your skills and exploring the sheltered bays and islands of Moidart. You'll gradually wind your way northwards along rocky shores, hearing local folklore tales as you go. After a relaxed lunch stop, it's time to explore the entrance to Loch Ailort before crossing to the Ardnish peninsula and searching for a spot to camp for the night. The sunset from here is spectacular, all the more appreciated perched by the campfire.

Day 3

The Sound of Arisaig

Kayaking

15km

Kickstart the morning with a fresh swim in the Atlantic then hop back in your kayak to continue steadily north and west across the mouth of Loch nan Uamh, taking some time to forage in the rocks and pools at low tide. The final wild camp will be in the wonderful islet-studded Sound of Arisaig, protected by hundreds of small tidal islands known as skerries, this is a spectacular spot for your final night under the Milky Way.

Day 4

Last paddle and swim

Kayaking

7km

Another early morning sea dip for the brave before paddling for a couple more hours through the hidden sea lochs of Arisaig. You’ll reach a small road before lunch where you'll pack up and hit the road back to Fort William ready for your journey home.

Included

Guides

Local, certified kayak guides

Accommodation

3 nights wild camping

Meals

Munch on tasty food throughout

Transfers

Minibus transfers between Fort William and the kayaking start/end points

Equipment

All your kayaking, camping and safety equipment

Not Included

Travel to and from the start point

Personal expenses

Visas where required

Day 1

Wild camping · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2 – Day 3

Wild camping · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

For breakfast, there'll be cereal, bread, tea and coffee. For lunch, you can expect wraps with a variety of fillings, soup, and some treats to keep you going. Dinner will usually be a pasta or rice dish with a dessert. Snacks and drinks will also be available between meals. Vegetarian, vegan and most dietary requirements can be catered for.

What is the accommodation like?

scotland
Wild Camp

You’ll wild camp in twin share tents in remote and beautiful spots by the loch-side and on the beaches. Accommodation is basic but the remote locations far make up for the lack of facilities. Single tents are available upon request.

Upgrades

For solo travellers wanting their own personal space, you can request your own private tent on the trip (subject to availability). Just request when booking.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Fort William

09:00 on Day 1

Ends

Fort William

Approx 15:00 on Day 4

Transfers

You’ll meet your host in Central Fort William at 09:00. You will then be transferred by minibus to the start. We recommend you arrive the night before to ensure you don't miss your transfer.

Your trip will end in Fort William mid-afternoon on the final day in Central Fort William.

On the final day, there is a Citylink bus from Fort William to Inverness departing at 15.30 which we recommend for those customers heading to Inverness Airport.

Travel options

Regular trains run to Fort William from across the UK. The nearest airports are Inverness (INV) or Glasgow (GLA). Citylink run bus services from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness. You can also get a bus directly from Glasgow Airport to Fort William (twice a day in the summer).

There are buses available from Glasgow to Fort William or from Inverness to Fort William. Please note if you are flying, you will need to arrive in Fort William the night before in order to make the start time as there are no connections which enable you to arrive early enough for the start on Day 1. Citylink and Megabus offer regular services with an approximate 2hr transfer time from Inverness, and 3 hr transfer to Glasgow Airport.

There is also the option of the Caledonia Sleeper Train

For those driving - there is a long-stay public Car Park next to The Moorings Hotel in Banavie, which we recommend using.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What's included?

  • Tent
  • Inflatable sleeping mat
  • Cutlery, mug, bowl, plate
  • Buoyancy aid
  • 2 x 20 litre dry bags for personal kit
  • Kayaking waterproof jacket, trousers
  • Neoprene shoes (on request only - let the host know in advance)

Please let your host know an indication of size for the waterproof clothing. Either an extra small, small, medium, large or extra-large. An approx. guess will do.

Available to Hire

  • Sleeping Bag - see Optional Extras.

What do I need to bring?

  • Sleeping bag & sleeping bag liner (if required for extra warmth)
    (sleeping bag must be in a compression sack to make it as small as possible to fit in the kayak)
  • Waterproof jacket for the evenings in camp
  • 2 sets of paddling clothes (lightweight, quick-dry trousers, woolly socks, base layer top, t-shirt or shirt)
  • Pyjamas if required (most sleep in a set of thermals or similar)
  • Fleece x 2 (1 for paddling, 1 for the evening)
  • Trainers for evenings (ideally water resistant)
  • 1 set of warm evening clothes (we hope to have a campfire some nights so take old clothes that you don’t mind getting smoky and dirty)
  • Warm gloves depending on the time of year
  • Warm hat
  • Sun hat
  • Spare socks and underwear
  • Sun cream/ lip salve/ sunglasses with a protective case
  • Midge head net & midge repellent (June to September)
  • Toothpaste, toothbrush, biodegradable shower gel/soap
  • Small-medium microfibre travel towel
  • Swimming costume if you fancy a swim
  • Torch (preferably head torch)
  • Small day sack for waterproofs, snacks, sun cream etc.
  • Camera (in a waterproof bag if necessary)
  • Power bank/solar charger
  • Water bottle
  • Personal hand sanitiser

Please note that cotton and denim clothing are not recommended for paddling in, as they have no thermal properties when wet. Bear in mind when packing - that all your personal kit, including sleeping bag and part of a tent will need to fit in the kayak. Please ensure that your personal kit (including your sleeping bag) fits in a 40ltr bag or 2 x 20ltr dry bags, these will be provided for you to use. If you like to snack, please pack your own light snacks - remember they must fit in the bag!

*Requests for optional extras can be made after booking on your “My Bookings” page

Sleeping Bag Hire

Payable Before Departure

Sleeping Bag Hire

Per Person

Cathy(November 2023)

A great trip. Sadly it was too windy to head to the coast but our guide had alternative options to hand and we made the most of our adventure by kayaking through the Great Glen. Our guide was fantastic; looking after our safety and proving lots and of tasty food and hot drinks. Tents did their job in blustery conditions and felt warm and cosy! Would recommend for an adventure packed weekend away!

Jane(November 2023)

The trip was glorious. Highlights were the location that despite the weather allowed us to see the wilderness in all its glory. Our guide, Stewart was awesome; knowledgeable, assertive, accommodating, fun and a great host. We felt safe but challenged at all times.The group were great and we all gelled really well. The kit provided served its purpose and was high quality. The trip was respectful of nature and sustainability. The extra big tent provided a great communal space for the bad weather. The food and drink provision was fab! An awesome experience, thankyou !

Victoria(November 2023)

An absolutely incredible experience. Our guide was fantastic and the scenery beautiful. Would highly recommend to anyone considering it

Emily(November 2023)

We had an absolutely brilliant trip. Our guide Scott was fantastic and also managed to cook delicious 3 course evening meals which was an unexpected bonus. This part of Scotland is absolutely stunning, and I loved seeing it from the water. Everything ran smoothly, with a lovely group and a sense of achievement at the end. It felt longer than 4 days - in a good way! I would definitely recommend it to anyone considering this trip.

Andrew(November 2023)

Another great MBA trip… this is a challenging trip if you haven’t kayaked in the sea before. The views, the sunsets, and the kayaking are absolutely stunning.

Joanna(October 2023)

Stewart and Scott worked tirelessly to give us a great experience in what turned out to be challenging (from a weather perspective) circumstances. Everyone on the trip was laid back and cheerful, and with Stewart's expert guidance, we had a fantastic trip which really allowed us to focus on great kayaking, whilst not having to worry about all the quite complex logistics.

Caz(October 2023)

Fantastic trip! Would highly recommend it

Mark(September 2023)

Amazing trip, from Stewart the guide, the group of fantastic people and the amazing scenery Scotland has to offer. Exceed my expectations and would 100% recommend it.

Hannah(September 2023)

Amazing trip, attention to detail with everything from health and safety to the lovely home/wild cooked food. So well organised. You really felt like the host cared about your experience and was there to make it great. You felt safe in the outdoor and sea knowledge of our guide and his local knowledge, I learnt so much that I can also carry forward with me on my own adventures. I will use Much Better Adventures again and strongly recommend. Trips like this can ignite some fresh energy into your life. Thank you!

Christie(September 2023)

This is definitely a wild and fun adventure. Scott, our guide, was fabulous. The food was delicious. Scotland, promised moody weather, and it delivered. The first half of our trip was beautiful, but the second half we were socked in by heavy rain. I wish there could’ve been a Plan B for the super rainy times, but the weathers too unpredictable, and we hoped for the best. I would add dry bags to your kit list. Once it rains, it’s hard to keep clothes separated and dry.

Emanuelle(August 2023)

An incredible few days exploring some of the hidden coves of the West Coast. Our guide Scott was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, as well as an amazing chef! We got very lucky with weather and wind conditions (though a little less with midges and ticks!), couldn’t have asked for a better adventure.

Joanne(August 2023)

I read the reviews prior to booking and found it hard to believe that there was no bad feedback, but after taking the trip, I can believe the hype! I have zero negatives and would recommend to anyone! The hosts were great - they were knowledgeable of the local area, kayaking and camping - giving guidance on map reading, understanding sea/current movements, safety etc. The food selection was great! The scenery was spectacular and the beaches made for some great camping spots.

Amy(July 2023)

Great trip, we did the great glen not the sea but it was ace regardless. Stewart was a great host who makes the trip a lot of fun. Food was great!

Mary(July 2023)

An amazing adventure. Brilliantly planned and orchestrated by our guide, Stuart. He considered everyone's needs and made the trip a great success despite changing weather conditons. We were cooked lots of lovely food! So much fun to get to know new friends in and out of the water! Highly recommend to anyone with decent fitness.

David(June 2023)

If you are thinking about booking this trip just do it. Best trip I’ve done in years… amazing scenery and Stew (our guide) was class: a great sense of humour and awesome local knowledge of wildlife, the area and Scottish history. #tworocksonesheet

Gerry(June 2023)

Had a wonderful time on this adventure. Got close to seals and porpoises and lots of wildlife generally. The scenery of Scotland was amazing and our expedition leader really looked after us. Beyond expectations!

Christopher(June 2023)

Great experience from the views to the sights and the challenges ahead! The bag of shame and the stone 🪨. Great moments and we had amazing weather ! Managed to see some eagles as well.

Scott(June 2023)

This was a truly outstanding sea kayaking trip to the west coast. We were lucky with the weather, but the rest wasn't down to luck but rather to the excellent service from MBE and in particular to our guide Scott McCartney. Scott's knowledge, planning, tireless attention to the group's needs, good humour and, of course, culinary skills made this a special experience for everyone. Thank you so much.

Top tip: make sure that you pack a midge hood!

Tony(June 2023)

Most excellent trip. Our guide Scot was just perfect. Local knowledge to keep us informed of lots of different topics. He looked after the group, especially after I capsized very quickly. Arranged for a second/different kayak for me, allowing me to continue and enjoy the trip. The food was amazing, 3 course meal every evening. Certainly didn’t go hungry, ( I’m a big lad) cheeky lunch time visit to the pub (refilll of fresh water 💦). Great group of likeminded people. We were So lucky with the weather too. Highly recommend, Scot is an awesome guide and chef. Thanks for a great 4 days.

Shreen(May 2023)

If you're looking for an adventure this is it. Stewart was the best tour guide you could ask for, with tonnes of local knowledge. We had lots of laughs and some bumpy sea moments but all made worth it by the views which were breathtaking. The meals were excellently prepared by Stewart, we never went hungry. Expect changeable weather and bring layers as one minute you're sunbathing and the next you're wearing your joggers and fleece to sleep in. I loved every minute and would do it all again tomorrow if I could. My heart is full

Matthew(May 2023)

Fantastic trip with a fantastic guide.

Jos(May 2023)

If you’re looking for a real adventure and haven’t kayaked before this trip is perfect. Fun, challenging, supported by a fabulous guide who’s cooking is great too. I wouldn’t hesitate to book.

Noel(May 2023)

Truly outstanding and beautiful experience. If in doubt, do it.

J(May 2023)

A fantastic trip with Scott, who was a patient guide to me, a total kayaking novice. Scott’s sous vide cooking was the best I have ever had on an adventure! We had a splendid time, even with the occasional challenging sea swell. I will certainly go kayaking with Scott again.

Jane(May 2023)

Amazing trip from start to finish. Safe, professional and fun. It was a great experience. We will defiantly be back.

Robynne(October 2022)

This trip was incredible. The scenery, the food, the experience, was all exceptional. Stu did an excellent job of guiding and cooking, thank you! I'd highly recommend it to anyone, just remember your Smidge!!

Donna(October 2022)

Wow, what an experience! 4 days of my life that I will never forget. Stuart, our guide was fantastic, knowledgeable, friendly and most importantly lead the group brilliantly right from the start and throughout the experience. His knowledge of the environment was second to none, and it was needed at times when we experienced inclement weather.

Our group dynamic was the next thing that made our experience unforgettable from the start - made some really good friends as a result. Ian, Matt, Ceri, Sarah, Lou, Bryany and Stuart, you made the trip!

Equipment was great as was the food, with Stuart making sure we were all well fed and watered.

When I go on the next trip I will make sure I take a couple of carrier bags for wet clothes, pegs, couple of small food bags to wear in trainers if they get wet and perhaps a go-pro to record the paddling.

This is a trip where the more you put into it the more you will get out of it. Its not always plain sailing with the weather, but that can't be helped so be prepared to get wet at times. Use the opportunity to learn as much as you can off your guide and you will go away with life skills as a result.

Superb experience, heartily recommended and thanks again Stuart for making it such a good experience.

Sarah(October 2022)

I would highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting to experience sea kayaking / wild camping in a group with the confidence that you will be well looked after at all times. From the moment we were picked up until the moment we were dropped back off our guide - Stew - was fantastic; constantly checking the forecasts and updating us, providing paddling that was suitable for all of the group - allowing us to have fun but to feel safe at all times - cooking food that was incredible (seriously - you won't go hungry on this trip!) and facilitating an environment that made it easy for us as a group to gel and have a great time. We laughed loads - even when the rain and wind made for a tough day. This is a trip that I'll not forget and has left me with wonderful memories as well as a real sense of achievement. Thanks to all involved - I couldn't have asked for more. Sarah

Zoe(October 2022)

Our hosts were the best really gave us everything we needed and gave us confidence i loved it felt like bear grills and was so good for my well being

Mike(September 2022)

We had a great trip! Kayaking around this beautiful coastline felt so engaging, spotting seals and birds was a real highlight. The camping beaches were beautiful, and swims were... refreshing!! We were pretty lucky with the weather, it only rained for half of one evening and the wind was never too strong. When the breeze dies down the midges do come out, but we weren't too badly bothered by them overall. Our guide John was excellent, chatty & friendly and gave us clear guidance when the sea got a little bigger, so we always felt in control on the water. He also cooked up some great meals! The trip is a brilliant escape, I'd highly recommend it!

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 46kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

You do not need any previous kayaking experience as full training will be provided at the beginning of the trip and while on the water. A general level of fitness will be required. Building a little arm strength before the trip can help with sea kayaking, and hip mobility is needed. The precise difficulty level of this trip depends on the sea conditions at the time, which can change quickly. Needless to say, you should come prepared to encounter some waves. You will be in a single kayak by default however if perhaps you don't have much kayaking experience or aren't confident in having your own boat and would prefer a tandem kayak, this can be requested with your host - they are however subject to availability so please request on your booking form.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

The Scottish summer is usually warm but you can expect some rain, even if it's just a little. Prepare for anything and think ‘layers'. Conditions in April and May will be slightly cooler, with the potential for frost at night. Kit-wise, the main thing is a warm sleeping bag, or an additional bag liner if you feel the cold more.

Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.

Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.

We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.

Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. See here for more info about the local teams we partner with.

TRIP DEPARTURE DATES

May 2024

Saturday • 4th May 2024

to Tuesday • 7th May 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 11th May 2024

to Tuesday • 14th May 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 18th May 2024

to Tuesday • 21st May 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 25th May 2024

to Tuesday • 28th May 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 1st June 2024

to Tuesday • 4th June 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 29th June 2024

to Tuesday • 2nd July 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 6th July 2024

to Tuesday • 9th July 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 13th July 2024

to Tuesday • 16th July 2024
Guaranteed to run
Hurry, only 1 space left

Saturday • 20th July 2024

to Tuesday • 23rd July 2024
Guaranteed to run
Hurry, only 3 spaces left

Saturday • 27th July 2024

to Tuesday • 30th July 2024
Guaranteed to run
Hurry, only 3 spaces left

Saturday • 10th August 2024

to Tuesday • 13th August 2024
Guaranteed to run
Hurry, only 3 spaces left

Saturday • 17th August 2024

to Tuesday • 20th August 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 24th August 2024

to Tuesday • 27th August 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 31st August 2024

to Tuesday • 3rd September 2024
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked

Saturday • 7th September 2024

to Tuesday • 10th September 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 14th September 2024

to Tuesday • 17th September 2024
Guaranteed to run

Saturday • 21st September 2024

to Tuesday • 24th September 2024
Guaranteed to run
Private trip

Go private and split the bill with ease.

Forget complex logistics, we've taken care of all the details to ensure a hassle-free get together. All of the adventure, none of the faff.

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