West Scotland's anchorages are not the kind you plan around taverna recommendations. They are the kind you plan around tide tables, holding ground charts, and whether the forecast shows a westerly coming through overnight. When they are good — and they frequently are — they are extraordinary. Silence, wildlife, and a glass of Jura whisky in the cockpit while an otter fishes off the bow. These are the ones worth seeking out.
Loch Craignish and Craobh Haven
Craobh Haven (pronounced Crove) is a purpose-built marina in a sheltered inlet at the head of Loch Craignish, south of Oban. It is a sensible overnight stop either side of a Dorus Mòr passage — the tidal race at the southern end of Loch Craignish runs at up to 8 knots at springs and requires careful timing.
Facilities: Full marina services, diesel, water, showers, a pub. The Loch Melfort Hotel, a short drive from the marina, is worth booking for dinner.
Anchorages nearby: Loch Beag at the head of Loch Craignish is a beautiful free anchorage — shallow but excellent holding in mud. The loch is tidal but the anchorage is usable at all states of the tide for most draft.
Crinan Basin
The sea end of the Crinan Canal. A small, sheltered basin with a hotel, a chandlery, and some of the best views on the west coast — the Sound of Jura opening south, the hills of Knapdale rising north. The basin is managed by Scottish Canals; berth alongside or anchor if space allows. Fuel is available from the canal depot.
Craighouse, Jura
The only settlement of any size on Jura. Craighouse Bay is sheltered from the south and west by the Small Isles — a cluster of low rocks off the entrance. Anchor in 3–6m on mud and sand; holding is generally good. The bay is open to the north and east, so check the forecast before anchoring overnight in unsettled weather.
Facilities: The Jura Hotel serves food and has showers available to visiting crews. The Isle of Jura distillery is a short walk from the anchorage — tours available. A small shop carries basics.
Verdict: One of the best anchorages on the west coast for the combination of scenery, facilities, and distillery access.
Loch Sween
A long, sheltered loch running south from Knapdale. Loch Sween is one of the most peaceful anchorages on the west coast — the loch is rarely visited by charter boats from Oban because it requires a deviation from the main south-bound route. Castle Sween, a 12th-century Norman tower house at the head of the loch, is the oldest stone castle in Scotland. Anchor in the bay below the castle.
Tarbert, Loch Fyne
The mainland hub for this part of the west coast. Tarbert's inner harbour dries at low water springs; the visitors' berths on the outer pontoons are available at all states of the tide. The harbour master (VHF 14) is helpful and will find you a berth. The town has shops, fuel, pubs, and a ruined Bruce Castle worth climbing to for the views over the loch.
Portavadie Marina
A modern marina at the entrance to Loch Fyne on the east side of Loch Tarbert — about 3 miles from Tarbert town. Portavadie has an excellent spa, restaurant, and accommodation — more resort than sailing destination, but the facilities are good and the position is convenient for passages through the Kyles of Bute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to anchor overnight on the west coast of Scotland?
A: In the right anchorage with the right forecast, yes. The west coast has strong tides and rapidly changing weather; never anchor without checking both. Drag your anchor properly before leaving the cockpit. A foul-weather anchorage with good shelter is always preferable to a scenic one that is open to the prevailing wind.
Q: What's the midges situation?
A: Real. Midges (Culicoides impunctatus) are worst in July and August in calm, humid conditions — exactly the conditions you want for anchoring. Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft are the most effective repellents. A breeze keeps them away; anchor where there is airflow.