United by a passion for sailing, scenery and single malt whisky, crews embark on a 200-mile voyage through the Inner Hebrides, choosing their own route from Oban to Skye, and back south to Islay. Hospitality offered by the coastal Classic Malts distilleries of Oban, Talisker and Lagavulin provides the social focus for a relaxed fortnight of cruising. The simple formula has proved to be very successful: tremendous sailing and great fun! All crews are welcomed ashore as guests of the distilleries, for buffets, music, dancing and, of course, for a chance to meet those whose lives are spent making Scotland's finest whisky.

The natural environment in which it is produced heavily influences the highly individual character of a single malt whisky. The cruise is a fascinating journey, a chance to explore both the West Coast and the subtleties of Scotland's finest whisky; to match island with malt, from peat-rich Islay to the rugged Isle of Skye. The sheltered sites of the distilleries were well chosen for sea transport, and today they remain a welcoming haven for sailors. Particularly so during the last two weeks of July! Oban, Talisker and Lagavulin Distilleries look forward to greeting you.

If you are new to the Classic Malts Cruise, it'll help you to know that the sailing is not heavily structured. Suppers, ceilidhs, and special distillery tours and tastings are held at the host distilleries of Oban, Talisker and Lagavulin, respectively, but you are welcome to call into any of the three distilleries on any day during the cruise fortnight. In between, cruisers plan their own route through the Isles. Whether you prefer an isolated anchorage, or the bright lights of Tobermory, there are plenty of great spots to explore. Chances are you will meet up with other boats flying the Classic Malts flag, the sign that they too are headed to the next distillery.