Argyll Cruising

Iain Duncan, born in Stonefield Castle, launched Argyll Cruising in 2014 after previously working for local cruising company The Majestic Line. He served as an engineer and skipper for the line, and decided to start Argyll Cruising when The Majestic Line left the area to cruise elsewhere. In addition to being the founder and owner, Iain serves as skipper on the boat’s voyages, his son Jamie serves as Shore Manager and handles sales for the line. Iain’s wife and mother of Jamie, Fiona, rounds out the trio, and offers essential support in various roles behind the scenes.

Ships: 1

How Many Passengers: 8 guests

Personality: The Splendour is a 20-meter long converted wooden Scottish fishing boat, and is outfitted with hardwood throughout. Guests will get to know the two crew members as friends, and learn expert information from them that can’t be found in guidebooks.

Fellow Passengers: Guests are not afraid of an adventure, and multigenerational families have been known to fill up the whole boat for a fun vacation.

Cabins: Accommodations consist of four private ensuite rooms. Cabins have a rustic, homey feel and bathrooms are light and airy with contemporary finishes.

Dining Experience: Breakfast is served at 8:30 am and can include porridge, cereal, fruit, yogurt, and toast, and skipper Iain will discuss the options for the day. Lunch is normally served around 1 pm and consists of light fare, and will be served on the upper deck if the weather is nice. It’s also good to note: meals are often timed for when the boat is anchored, so the serving time may vary. Dinner includes complimentary wine, and usually consists of fresh seafood, lamb, or beef, with a delicious dessert to follow. Each day there is a new menu, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated if the chef is aware ahead of time. Coffee, tea, and snacks are available throughout the day.

Amenities: A dining deck saloon for reading or socializing, as well as eating meals, and a roomy wheelhouse for chatting with Iain or spotting wildlife. On the outer decks, guests can relax, go fishing or lay out lobster pots. For those who want to explore ashore, bicycles are available to rent at a couple of ports.

Best For: Adventurous couples, multigenerational families, honeymooners 

Included Alcohol: Wine is included with dinner, but other drinks are kept on a running tab throughout the voyage.

Gratuities: Additional

Where They Go: The west coast of Scotland, visiting the Kyles of Bute with options to visit Loch Fyne, Loch Riddon and Loch Striven. the Cumbrae Isles, Island of Arran, and the tiny isle of Ailsa Craig. The Splendour also visits the Inner and Outer Hebrides, Skye and the small Isles and St Kilda, weather permitting.

Contributor: Sarah Bretz