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Special Experiences: Whale & shark watching

Itinerary WE-3: Wild Islands from GBP 769 per person for 6nts

Seeing wildlife is only part of this active holiday - it will also give you a chance to get closer to nature!

Spend 3 nights on the beautiful island of Mull, where you'll have the chance to get closer to see eagles, otters, seals, minke whales and other native wildlife, with two trips included - a full day whale watching trip and a day’s wildlife safari.

Then spend 3 nights on pretty Islay (pronounced eye-lah), where you'll learn new skills on a one day bushcraft skills course. We guarantee there's nothing finer than sea-fishing from the shore, making a fire on the beach and cooking lunch surrounded by heather-clad hills.

Day One - The Isle of Mull

You start with a memorable ferry ride to Mull, from Oban, around two and a half hours from Glasgow. Stay on deck to enjoy the views of castles, lighthouses, and maybe even look for your first eagle. We have a choic of family run hotels, in the peaceful village of Dervaig or in the colourful main island village of Tobermory.

Day Two

Your first wildlife experience is a day's whale-watch. Minke whales and sharks along with porpoise and dolphins are regularly seen off Mull between April to September; a truly unforgettable thrill. The whale watch excursion is part of an active research programme contributing directly to marine conservation and organised with one of the most experienced companies in the UK.

Day Three

On today's wildlife safari your friendly and knowledgeable local guides Pam and Arthur know exactly where to go to find the best places to spot golden and white-tailed sea eagles, falcons, otters, seals and other indigenous island wildlife.

Day Four

Return to the mainland by ferry, then drive south along the scenic coast of Argyll to catch a second ferry to Islay.

Our hand-picked hotels are both family-run small hotels on the shores of Loch Indaal, with many rooms offering seaviews.

Day Five

On Islay you will enjoy a full day with your own wildlife guide. During this unique experience, you can learn some natural bush craft skills, make a fire on the beach and cook lunch, and try some sea fishing from the shore, all surrounded by heather-clad hills, deserted sandy coves and numerous historical reminders of days gone by.

Day Six

Time to explore the island which is rich in history, as well as wildlife and also has 8 whisky distilleries, just in case there is a ‘nip’ in the air.

Day Seven

Return home, by ferry to the mainland.

Prices & Dates

This holiday can be arranged from Easter to end of September.

The price is £769 per person for April and September and £795 for May, June, July & August.

Family rooms are available and child prices are £325 per child aged 8-14, based on sharing a family room with two adults.

Price includes 6 nights B&B in 3 and 4 star small family-run hotels, full day guided wildlife safari on Mull, 6 hour whale watch trip from Mull, and a full day wildlife and bushcraft experience with guide on Islay. The price also includes ferry crossings for car and passengers to/from Islay and Mull.

Do note that this holiday is not suitable for children under 8. For children aged 8-11 we will substitute a four hour marine wildlife boat trip for the whale-watch, for a reduction of £20 per person.

All our touring holidays include a map of Scotland with recommended routes from your specified starting point, suggestions on places to see and visit depending on your personal interests and our expertise to help you get the most from your holiday.

All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.

The McKinlay Kidd Guarantee

All our holiday prices include a service charge of £8 per person per night towards the costs we incur in researching, planning and designing your holiday.

We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests.