Discover the Cowal Peninsula
Many visitors to Cowal will arrive by boat, ferried across the Firth of Clyde to the bustling town of Dunoon. But if you want to experience more of the Cowal peninsula from the water, there are plentiful opportunities beyond this ferry crossing.
Head on a Boat Trip
The most iconic boat trip on Cowal's waters must be the paddle steamer PS Waverley. Paddle steamers like her used to bring throngs of Glaswegian holidaymakers 'doon the watter’ to Cowal. Today, you won’t find any crowds, but you can still explore the Cowal coastline on board the PS Waverley, the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world. If you can drag yourself away from the views, head down to see and hear the mighty engines. Throughout the summer, trips run from Dunoon to Tighnabruaich, the Kyles of Bute and Loch Goil.
Alternatively, join Cowal Cruises on a boat trip in the spring and summer months to experience to local wildlife, history & scenic coastal landscapes. Departing from the picturesque village of Tighnabruaich, it's a brilliant way to kick off your Cowal adventure.
Set sail
Cowal’s coastline is a world-class sailing destination. Sailors flock to the area for the scenery and varied sailing grounds. A whole season could easily be spent exploring the area, with islands, inlets, quiet anchorages and pub moorings all adding to the magic. You’ll find marina facilities at Holy Loch Marina and Portavadie, Loch Fyne.
Fancy learning the ropes? Tighnabruaich Sailing School has taught people to sail in the sheltered waters of the Kyles of Bute for over 40 years, with dinghy-sailing courses for adults, children and beginners. You’ll be sure to find something to suit your abilities. If you’ve never sailed before, they’ll have you confident in your ability to manage a dinghy in reasonable conditions by the end of the week.
Go paddling
Kayaking is a brilliant way to explore the coastline of Cowal. This area is a paddler’s paradise with secluded beaches, white sands, and deserted islands. There's no better way to experience the tranquillity of Loch Goil than gliding over its crystal-clear surface. You might even get lucky and spot the local Seal colony, porpoises or dolphins that frequent Loch Goil.
Go for a coastal walk
Embarking on a coastal walk along the Cowal Peninsula offers a blend of tranquil landscapes and rich wildlife. One notable route is the initial segment of the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way, stretching from Portavadie to Tighnabruaich. This path traverses Argyll's Secret Coast, taking you along ancient forest trails with panoramic views over Loch Fyne. Keep your eyes peeled for various seabirds, including diving gannets and vocal oystercatchers. There's also the possibility of spotting some seals basking on rocks or porpoises gliding through the waters.
