Alternative Boat Hire

Journey the world between ocean and coast! Half day and Day trips aboard a traditional working boat under sail operating from Iona and Fionnphort.

Alternative Boat Hire run boat trips aboard a traditional wooden ex-working sailing fishing boat.

‘Birthe Marie’ is an unashamedly old fashioned boat with a gaff ketch rig and a solidity that is reassuring. The whole concept of our trips is of unhurried drinking in of the landscape.

We take old and young, experienced or complete ‘non sailors’. We run a mix of scheduled trips to cater for individuals and families and also operate ‘whole boat hire’ where the skippered vessel is chartered for exclusive use for just a few folk or to cater for groups up to 12 passengers

Address

Iona/Fionnphort

Accessibility

We cater for young and old, nimble and less nimble, experienced or novice. When embarking or disembarking passengers may have to negotiate 2-3 steps from pier to the vessel. On day trips shore landings are generally by inflatable dinghy in sheltered locations, a degree of mobility is required for this. There is a toilet on board (below deck).

Late Availability

Season generally mid april to October.

Current Opening Information

Bookings available. For Season 2024 trips will commence last week in May. please contact us for more detail.

*While we try our best to ensure that this information is kept up to date, please check with listings directly.

Price Range

From £40.00-£60.00 on scheduled trips

Booking

Region

Isle of Iona

Types

Features

See & Do in the Area

Sunset over Iona Abbey on the Isle of Iona

Iona Abbey
Founded by St Columba, Iona Abbey is noted for its peaceful location, beautiful granite buildings , unique cloister carvings and Celtic crosses.

Isle of Iona | Historic

Reilig Odhrain
Sited on the Medieval street of the Dead, Reilig Odhrain is the burial place of early Scottish kings.

Isle of Iona | Historic
Traigh an t-Suidhe

North End Beach Walk
Walking to the North End of Iona is worth the visit, experience the expansive views, white sands and aquamarine waters that inspired the Scottish Colourists.

Isle of Iona | Walks

The Marble Quarry
Worked from medieval times until the early 20th Century. White marble streaked with yellow-green serpentine altar can be seen in Iona Abbey.

Isle of Iona | Sights & Landmarks