Isle of Mull Captain Notes

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Captain Notes

by Dayyan Armstrong | January 18, 2026

This rugged landscape with challenging weather conditions draws sailors who aren't put off by gray clouds, wind, or choppy seas. Such risks are often part of the adventure of exploring such a remote and isolated itinerary.

The Isle of Mull remains one of Scotland’s most popular cruising destinations for its proximity to the town of Oban on Scotland’s west coast. It is easily accessible from the mainland with manageable passages guarded from the Atlantic Ocean and abundant opportunities to explore the beauty of the Hebrides. Adjacent to the Sound of Mull are Ardnamurchan and Morvern. Separated by Loch Sunart, both locations along mainland Scotland are lined with secluded coves perfect for anchorages. Loch Linnhe, famous for its proximity to Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest mountain, continues north along the coast from Oban and is an easy day sail from the Isle of Mull. The coast is lined with castles, ancient chapels, and quaint villages offering simple amenities including local pubs serving fresh seafood, all within easy dinghy access from the anchorages along the eastern coast of the loch.

Tobermory

56° 37' 1.9236'' N 6° 3' 23.418'' W

Tobermory offers a wide range of docking options from anchoring along the south coast, moorings, or a transient berth at the marina. Managed by the Tavermory Harbor Authority, there are 38 moorings suitable for vessels ranging from 38 to 75 ft. There are 60 berths along the pontoon which should be reserved in advance. In the peak season, the marina is often at capacity and the harbormaster will make room if there are slip vacancies. Go ashore to explore the most historic and idyllic town in Mull. There are basic provisions offered and a range of restaurants serving fresh and locally caught seafood.

Lochaline

56° 32' 42.162'' N 5° 45' 50.4288'' W

The Lochaline Harbor and Pontoon Facilities are located on the north coast as you enter the bay. This newly constructed marina offers 30 visitor berths with excellent shelter to the seas and winds of the Sound of Mull. There are facilities ashore and its just a short walk to the village. Berths can be reserved in advance and there are 10 swinging moorings on a first come first served basis. There is plenty of room to anchor throughout the harbor and if anchoring, find any suitable area with adequate depth to your vessel. Note there can be substantial fetch when a east or west wind blows through the bay.

Tinker’s Hole

56° 17' 26.1816'' N 6° 22' 50.2176'' W

Tinker’s Hole is a wilderness anchorage located off the Mull of Ross. Surrounded by outcrops of island rock formation, set your anchor with enough swing room to avoid the islands and other boats nearby. Famous for its stunning sandy beach, with views stretching to Colonsay and Jura, the nearby Ardalanish Bay also boasts a floral and unique rock formations in the surrounding islands. Once anchoring, you’ll find several Bronze Age burial cists, from the Iron Age for along with ruins of old crofts scattered around the bay.

Calgary Bay

56° 34' 39.918'' N 6° 17' 15.3204'' W

In calm water, enter into the pay and set anchor with enough swing room if the wind changes direction. The bay is largely sandy with a halfmoon bay along the coast. There are no facilities here and should only be attempted during calm seas. The bay is exposed to west and south west wind.

Oban

56° 24' 47.5668'' N 5° 29' 32.2584'' W

The Oban Transit Marina is located along the north end of the floating breakwater off the north pier. There is deep water approaching the marina and navigation is straightforward and it is recommended to monitor VHF Ch. 16 and 12 for ferry traffic and other vessel movements within the bay. There are numerous mooring fields surrounding Oban that can be reserved for transient guest. Anchoring is possible as well but note the channel markers and prevailing winds. Often a strong west wing can cause Oban to be on the leeshore and not suitable for anchoring. Instead, navigate across the harbor to Ardantrive Bay where there is a large protect anchorage with moorings, berths at the marina and plenty of room to anchor.

Recommended Day Anchorages

Ardantrive Bay
Port Appin
Carna, Loch Sunart
Iona Striaght
Loch Scridain
Coronation Cairn, Loch Buie

Itinerary Duration

Circumnavigating the Isle of Mull can be completed within a 5-day voyage, but it can also be extended to a 2-week passage with a diversity of lochs, bays, and coves to explore. Extending the itinerary even longer to sail north to the Isle of Skye or southbound to the Isle of Jura.

Local Foods

When it comes to local cuisine on the Isle of Mull, the Mull cheese is a standout. This isn’t just any cheese—it's a celebration of the island's rich dairy tradition. It’s creamy, tangy Mull Cheddar made from pastoral land can be paired with crisp, locally-made oatcakes, and tangy pickles.. For seafood, fresh mussels, langoustines, and scallops are pulled straight from the surrounding waters.