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Immerse Hebrides

Scheduled boat tours, private charters and adventure sea swimming from Stornoway harbour, Isle of Lewis.
1. 1st January 202531st December 2025

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Watersports in the Outer Hebrides

With our clear, turquoise waters and sandy white beaches that would not look out of place in the Caribbean, it is no surprise that the Outer Hebrides are a great choice of destination for lovers of the ocean as well as Scottish water sports holidays.

Western Isles water sports breaks offer everything from kite-surfing to open-water swimming, all against the stunning backdrop of our spectacular Scottish island scenery.

Kayaking

Why not try kayaking in the Outer Hebrides, a pastime that offers endless discoveries. From exploring the hundreds of off-shore islands, such as Mingulay with its caves and sea stacks to a simple paddle in the beautiful Stornoway Harbour, with the stunning grounds of the Lews Castle as a backdrop, the sights and experiences of Western Isles kayaking are fascinating.

Outer Hebrides kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours are available for people of every skill level, from complete beginners to professionals, with Western Isles watersports instructors able to show visitors some of the best places for kayaking in Scotland. Wild kayaking on Lewis, Harris, Uist, or Barra also offers much to the wildlife enthusiast, allowing access to the habitats of the rare seabirds and marine life.

Surfing

Surfing in the Outer Hebrides is another popular pastime. With our rugged coastline, over seventy beautiful beaches and sparkling, pollution-free sea, the Western Isles are arguably one of the best places in the world to surf. The heart of our surf culture is probably Eoropie Beach, but surfing spots can be found all down the west coast. The Isle of Lewis, which enjoys swells from every direction and some of the most consistent surf in Europe, is a truly amazing experience. Western Isles surfing lessons are offered by a number of qualified surf instructors in the Outer Hebrides, making this one of the best places to try surfing in Scotland. Kitesurfing is also popular with those enjoying watersports holidays in the Outer Hebrides.

Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding has become increasingly popular and a great fun way to get in the water and explore our pristine coastline. You can bring your own or there are some businesses offering them for hire.

Open-water Swimming

For those who prefer to immerse themselves in our clear Hebridean waters, there are instructors who will guide you through the essentials of open-water swimming in our lochs and shores. We even have a mobile woodburning SaltBox Sauna which parks up at the coast and a great way to warm up and rejuvenate after a swim.

Snorkelling and coasteering tours are also available for those who want to get fully immersed in the Outer Hebrides.

Highlights

Scaladale Centre - Activities

Uist Sea Tours

We run sightseeing trips along the east and west coast of Uist, along with trips to Mingulay, Monach Isles and St Kilda. Other island destinations available on request.

Saltbox Sauna

Experience the wellness effects of hot & cold therapy in our mobile wood-fired sauna by the sea. Sea dips optional. Freshwater supplied. Lewis & Harris.

Barra Surf and Coastal Adventures

Unique adventures in stunning locations on the Isle of Barra. Our professional guides and instructors offer surf lessons, snorkelling close encounters with seals, beautiful sea kayak tours, and the…

Immerse Hebrides Boat Tours

Scheduled boat tours, private charters and adventure sea swimming from Stornoway harbour, Isle of Lewis.

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