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.
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
Wild Bathing
Wild Bathing
Wild Bathing is a local, family-run outdoor wellbeing business based in beautiful Argyll, offering wild swimming, wood-fired sauna experiences...
14 Kilvaree Croft Connel
Argyll
PA37 1RN
Tel: 07795 280584
Wild Hebridean Swimming
Emma brings together a community of people from all over the world united by a common love of swimming. A qualified and experienced coach, she welcomes all a...
Cnoc na Sgillinn
Tobermory
Isle of Mull
Argyll & Bute
PA75 6QA
Tel: 07770 483063
Bute Boat Tours Ltd
Join us to experience the most beautiful scenery in Scotland: The Kyles of Bute, Loch Fyne to Tarbert, visit Arran Distillery and snorkel off the boat.
The...
Rothesay Harbour
Isle of Bute
PA20
Tel: 07486 873114
Provident Sailing
A holiday on Provident will introduce you to the fabulous west coast of Scotland, where you can explore the islands, coasts, harbours, and hills of Argyll an...
Head Office, Dunstaffnage Marina
Dunbeg
Oban
PA37 1PX
Tel: 07549 935222
Isle of Gigha Activity Centre
Located just a short walk from the ferry slip, the Activity Centre offers the chance to hire kayaks, paddle boards, wetsuits and snorkels; perfect for explor...
Isle Of Gigha Activity Centre
Isle of Gigha
PA41 7AA
Tel: 07549 682700
Mull Wildlife Breaks
Mull Wildlife Breaks is run by Laura and Stevens, who are passionate about the Isle of Mull, the natural environment and ensuring their guests have an unforg...
3 Morven View
Salen
Aros
PA72 6JB
Tel: 07742 947827
Kayak Majik
The warm, shallow waters of Escart Bay are ideal for learning paddlesports and honing your skills on the water. Whether you're a complete beginner or want to...
Kayak Majik
West Loch Shores
Tarbert
PA29 6YF
Tel: 07891 861393
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!
