Captain's log
'Win a week's sailing in the Classic Malts Millennium Cruise,' writes Philip Froude, 'too good a chance to let pass by I think and, blow me down, I win!'
Saturday 15th July
Well, the waiting’s over, today’s the day. Carol, my wife, and I are off to claim our prize. Flying to Glasgow via Gatwick gives me an opportunity to gloat at my colleagues at World of Whiskies as we sail through.
We are met at Glasgow and driven to Oban were we meet our fellow prize winners Andy and Jack (from Bristol), Steve Blake the distillery manager and various media types who have managed to wangle their way on to the Cruise.
We take a tour of Oban Distillery complete, with tasting, and are taken to our boat to stow our gear before returning for a sumptuous barbecue in the evening. The first night is spent in Oban harbour.
Sunday 16th July
Leisurely reveille followed by breakfast on board. We sail around the harbour in company with other UDV chartered classic yachts getting to know our craft. We then set sail to Craobh Haven for the official opening of the cruise which is followed by a barbecue and ceilidh. The night is spent in Craobh Haven.
Monday 17th July
An early start is made for Sound of Jura and Islay. We see seals sunning themselves on rocks and porpoises swimming by. We pass by the Jura Distillery before rounding the Point into the Sound of Islay. After tying up at Caol Ila Distillery, a magical setting, we are met and taken overland to Lagavulin where another tour and tasting await us. Lagavulin is in a very picturesque bay with Ireland visible to the south-west. It’s then back to the boat for an evening sail to overnight anch.....
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By Philip Froude
Section : Whisky Travel
Page number : 41
