Loch Coruisk is one of the wildest places in Scotland, a freshwater loch hidden in the heart of the Black Cuillin with no road anywhere near it. The easiest way in is by boat from Elgol, a small village at the end of a long single-track road on the Strathaird peninsula. Boats cross Loch Scavaig in around forty-five minutes, usually pausing at a seal colony on the rocks, and land at a jetty a short walk from the loch, where you have time ashore to walk up and look along the water to the mountains. The standard trip takes about three hours in total with around an hour and a half ashore, and shorter non-landing cruises and longer flexible returns for walkers are also offered. Trips run from about April to October, weather permitting.
The journey
Elgol itself has one of the finest views on Skye, looking across the water to the Cuillin, so arrive early and enjoy it before you sail. Bella Jane Boat Trips, the longest-running operator, sails from the jetty with commentary on the scenery and wildlife, and Misty Isle Boat Trips also runs from Elgol.
On the crossing you are likely to see common and grey seals, seabirds and, with luck, sea eagles, porpoises or minke whales in summer. Loch Scavaig narrows as you approach the head of the loch, with the peaks of the Cuillin rising almost straight from the water.
Ashore at Loch Coruisk
From the landing, a short walk over rocks leads to the outflow of Loch Coruisk, where the loch stretches away into a bowl of bare rock peaks. Paths continue along the shore for those who want to explore, and experienced walkers sometimes take a one-way boat and walk out via the coastal path to Camasunary, which includes a rocky section called the Bad Step that requires care and a head for heights. Bring waterproofs, warm layers, sturdy shoes and a packed lunch, and keep an eye on the time so you are back at the jetty for the return sailing.
Booking and practicalities
Book ahead in summer, as boats are small and popular, and check the day before, since trips are cancelled in strong winds or heavy seas. Elgol is about fourteen miles from Broadford on a narrow, winding road, roughly forty minutes each way, so allow plenty of time.
There is free parking at the jetty. The trip suits families with older children, wildlife lovers and photographers, and the non-landing cruise is a good choice for those with limited mobility or small children. Combine it with Sligachan and the Fairy Pools for a day in the Cuillin.
What to expect
The experience
A small passenger boat from Elgol across Loch Scavaig, with a stop at a seal colony and time ashore at Loch Coruisk, or a shorter non-landing cruise.
Best time
A calm, clear day between late spring and early autumn, on a morning sailing to leave time for the drive.
How long
About three hours for the standard landing trip, ninety minutes for a non-landing cruise and up to a full day on flexible returns.
Tips
Book ahead in summer, check the weather the day before, bring layers and a packed lunch, and allow forty minutes each way for the road from Broadford.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to stand in the heart of the Cuillin without a mountain walk.
- Families
- Good for children who are steady on rocks; the non-landing cruise suits younger ones.
- Couples
- Sail in the morning, picnic by the loch and finish with the view of the Cuillin from Elgol beach.
- Pair with
- Sligachan Old Bridge, the Fairy Pools and a night in the south of the island.
- Time needed
- A half day including the drive to Elgol.
Good questions
When do the boats to Loch Coruisk run?+
From about April to October, several times a day in season, weather permitting.
How long is the trip?+
The standard landing trip lasts about three hours with around ninety minutes ashore; non-landing cruises take about ninety minutes.
Will I see seals?+
Almost certainly. Boats usually pause at a seal colony on the rocks in Loch Scavaig.
Do I need to book?+
Booking ahead is wise in summer, as boats are small and popular, and you should confirm the day before in case of bad weather.
Can I walk back instead of taking the boat?+
Experienced walkers can return on foot via Camasunary, but the route includes the Bad Step, a rocky section that needs care and a head for heights.
