We are considering getting up a little early to cross on the ferry and in my YouTube search have come across a question and a concern. I wonder if anyone has info about.
We will be there in September and I’ve heard there is a possibility of whale, orca or dolphin sightings while crossing the sound. Is that a common or rare thing?
Another YouTuber was told he had to stay in the car during the crossing, but he didn’t say why. I wonder if that happens very often.
Posted by
Yorkshire
1253 posts
I would say 50 percent of the time harbour porpoises swim just ahead of the boat.
I did 5 crossings last year and we did see a whale, the give away was lots of seabirds diving to the surface just ahead as fish are driven ahead of the whale.
Orcas were also spotted 2 days ahead of my last crossing.
This was also in September .
Its sizable boat with a cafe ,lounge and viewing decks.
There's also wildlife boat tours out of Mallaig, the cruise up Loch Nevis is beautiful.
Tom Macleans whale definatly can be sighted on a vist to Tarbet ( knoydart)
We helped shear the sheep on the estate and
as a huge favour got permission to spend the night aboard
Posted by
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1147 posts
You absolutely do not stay in your car during the crossing (at least not since the pandemic). I have seen porpoises and dolphins from the ferry on that route and orcas from the Stornaway to Ullapool crossing.
If you are staying in Skye you will have a better chance of seeing marine wildlife by taking a boat trip with Bella Jane out of Elgol (or Misty Isle is another company in Elgol). Their 1/2 day trip to Canna is wonderful and you are almost certain to have dolphins alongside for part of your boat trip.
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
1626 posts
Last June we took the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig. We sat outside on the upper deck. It's a very pleasant and enjoyable trip.
Posted by
Duluth 🛶
6582 posts
I took 7 ferries last year in Scotland, including the Armadale to Mallaig crossing, and at no time was I allowed to stay in my car (and I certainly would not have wanted to).
There are plenty of amenities on board the ferries, and even the smaller boats usually have a place to buy drinks and snacks. Plus there are usually lounges you can sit in, both inside and outside. So you can certainly look for such sightings.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
57 posts
We visited last Sept. and enjoyed the ferry crossing! Echoing others, we were not allowed to stay in our cars and had a lovely time sitting on the top deck. It was misty and we didn't see any marine wildlife, but it was still just great!
We did reserve/buy our tickets in advance, which I'd highly recommend.
Posted by
OP
Kelso WA
2 posts
It wasn’t until your replies that I realized the video I watched must have been during the pandemic. Thank you for the comments and recommendation. We’ve decided to get up early so we can make the crossing.
Posted by
Yorkshire
1253 posts
As you.mentioned having to get up early..
https://www.calmac.co.uk/summer-timetables/mallaig-armadale
Its a frequent service in September ..
Posted by
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1147 posts
You absolutely need to make a reservation for the car. Even in September the ferries will be very busy.