Water activities in Argyll & the Isles
The stunning coastline of Argyll & the Isles is home to some of the most biologically diverse marine environments in the UK and the many wrecks beneath the waves are a powerful reminder of our maritime heritage.
For watersports enthusiasts, there is so much to choose from. Take your pick from boat trips to the world’s third-largest whirlpool, or try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, SCUBA diving, fishing, surfing and wild swimming.
Watersports are our specialism and there are stacks of places to hire equipment, take lessons or book a guided tour. You can’t beat local knowledge to enhance your experience.
Follow our specially designed trails for wild swimming, snorkelling and kayaking, or try swimming with basking sharks, kayaking in the beauty of Fingal’s Cave or night-time SCUBA diving by floodlight.
And the water isn’t just for sports buffs.
Families can enjoy sheltered sandy beaches with clear, shallow waters warmed by the Gulf Stream. Children will love hopping on a ferry to explore the islands, swimming in the calm seas, spotting the playful seals lazing in the sun and snorkelling to discover underwater treasures. Paddling, rock pooling and sandcastles delight at any age!
Just 90 minutes from Glasgow, Argyll and the Isles are perfect for a memorable family day trip, short break or extended holiday.
Water Safety
Water-based activities can be enjoyable and may support physical and mental wellbeing, but they also carry risks, including cold-water shock, changing weather, tides, waves, and currents. Check the conditions, know your limits and follow Water Safety Scotland’s guidance before entering the water.
Following appropriate guidance makes these activities safer.
Sea Kayak Oban
The waters around Oban represent one of the world's most amazing sea kayak destinations, with everything from idyllic sheltered shores to wild tidal races. S...
6-8 Argyll Street
Oban
PA34 5SG
Tel: 01631565310
Holy Loch Marina (Tingdene Marinas & Boat Sales)
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cowal Peninsula, Holy Loch Marina offers the perfect balance of peaceful sanctuary and exhilarating coastal adve...
Holy Loch Marina
Rankin's Brae
Dunoon
PA23 8FE
Tel: 01369 701800
Live Argyll - Aqualibrium, Campbeltown
Aqualibrium Leisure Centre is situated on Kinloch Green in Campbeltown, offering spectacular views of Campbeltown Bay. The centre incorporates a swimming poo...
Kinloch Road
Campbeltown
Argyll
PA28 6EG
Tel: 01586 551212
Basking Shark Scotland
Operating across Argyll & the Isles, our wildlife-watching adventures run from April - October. Basking Shark Scotland is the only dedicated snorkel oper...
Cluaran
Oban
PA34 4LX
Tel: 07975 723140
Loch Fyne Mooring & Pontoon
With access at all tides, it’s an ideal stop for sailors, cruisers, and fishing boats — but arriving is only the beginning. Step ashore and you’ll find great...
Cuil House
Cairndow
PA268BL
Tel: 07765001889
Sealife Adventures
All our trips visit the Corryvreckan where turbulent tides create one of the world's largest whirlpools and our cruising area is exceptionally rich in wildli...
Clachan
Seil
By Oban
PA34 4TR
Tel: 01631 571010 (daytime) 01852 300203 (evening and weekends)
Skarv Lines Scottish Adventure Cruises
Discover Scotland’s spectacular west coast on a small-ship adventure cruise with Skarv Lines. Aboard our converted trawler, Nova Spero, you’ll explore remote...
18 Garbhein Crescent
Kinlochleven
Argyll
PH50 4SD
Tel: 01855 819145
Kintyre Express
Kintyre Express is a fast passenger ferry service which opens up Scotland and Northern Ireland for you to explore. Our service links Campbeltown in Kintyre,...
Campbeltown Harbour
Argyll
Scotland
Tel: (+44) 1586 555 895
Explore all the places to visit in Argyll & the Isles
3700km of coastline, 23 inhabited islands, major towns and villages are all waiting for you.
Scotland's Adventure Coast on YouTube
Get inspired! Watch our amazing videos showcasing the range of People-Powered Adventures you can experience in Argyll & the Isles. There really is something for everyone!
