Planning for the Sound of Mull and the west coast of Scotland is pretty straightforward. Most people drive to Dunstafnage (2mins from Oban) to meet the boat the evening before their charter ready for an early start the next day. Conversely, at the end of the week, we try to be in after two dives for a quick getaway so that you can be on the road and headed south. There is a marina at Dunstaffnage and car parking at the Wide Mouthed Frog (currently closed for business).
The Usual Itinerary…
The charters in the Sound of Mull and beyond vary in length and routine unlike other areas. However a typical weekend looks something like this:
Thursday Evening
- Arrive late, set up gear, food in Oban
Friday
- Depart about 0830
- Dive 1 & 2: two dives up the Sound of Mull depending on tides/slack water
- Evening in Tobermory
Saturday
- Dive 1 & 2: two dives up the Sound of Mull depending on tides/slack water
- Evening in Lochaline
Sunday
- Dive 1 & 2: two dives up the Sound of Mull depending on tides/slack water
- Dunstafnage by around 15.00, depart boat and get on road.
Travel to Oban
Most people drive to Oban. The easiest route is the A82 from Glasgow to Crianlarich and then the A85 into Oban. The run from Glasgow to Oban takes about 2.5hrs. There is free car parking at the marina in Dunstaffnage.
Finding the boat in Oban
My favoured berth is at Dunstafnage Marina and you will meet me here 9 times out of 10. However, there is also the North Pier in Oban which I occasionally go to. Check before travel for final confirmation on the day.
