Date: Saturday 11 July. Place: Oban Marina. Event: The start of the annual Classic Malt Cruise.

More than 100 yachts and crews from 12 countries started on a voyage through the seas and lochs of the fabulous Scottish west-coast passing the many islands of the Inner Hebrides. The 200 miles voyage will bring the participants to some of Scotlands most beautiful scenery and includes a visit to three famous single malt whisky distilleries, Lagavulin of Islay included. Lagavulin is also the last distillery of the cruise and the first yachts will arrive on Thursday 23 July. The cruise will end with a ceilidh to be held in the Old Malt Mill distillery buildings. A quote from the malt cruise website: Continue reading.....

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.

Cruise organiser, Jeremy Wyatt commented: "We are delighted that the Cruise brings many sailors to explore the west coast of Scotland for the first time, using Oban Marina as a base from which to explore the wonderful sailing around the Inner Hebrides. This year, in addition to cruisers from around the UK, we have significant entries from Germany, Scandinavia, and from as far away as Canada and the USA." The Classic Malts Cruise is organized by the World Cruising Club and runs from 11 to 24 July, starting from Oban and ending at Lagavulin on Islay. Check out Youtube for the Oban Farewell Video. (image courtesy of Islay Studios)

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