• Wave icon Trip Type: Offshore
  • Speech bubble icon Instructors: 2
  • People icon Crew Size: Max 9 (10 for ocean)
  • Cake icon Ages: 18-70 ish
  • Pin icon Region: Norway, Iceland & The Arctic
High

Adventure Rating:
High

Low to some

Experience Required:
Low to some

12 Days from £2,299

Dates, Prices & Travel

Offshore sailing: Iceland, Westman Islands and Scotland

Set sail on a remarkable journey across the North Atlantic, connecting the dramatic volcanic shores of Iceland, the windswept beauty of the Westman Isles, the remote wonders of St. Kilda, and the historic coastline of Scotland. This voyage is a mix of thrilling offshore passages with opportunities to explore ashore, tracing ancient seafaring routes through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Experience Iceland’s towering fjords and stark beauty, marvel at the Westman Isles’ rich wildlife and volcanic history, and uncover the hidden treasures of St. Kilda, one of Scotland’s most remote archipelagos. Finish in Scotland, a land steeped in tradition, with its rugged coastlines, tranquil lochs, and historic landmarks. Unforgettable sailing. Stunning destinations. An incredible adventure.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime with the offshore sailing experts?

Rubicon 3 are renowned as the offshore sailing experts, renowned in the sailing world for our extensive experience, comprehensive training, and a dedication to adventure and discovery. Our expert team, highly experienced sailors in ocean passage making, the North Sea, and the Arctic, offer hands-on instruction in all aspects of offshore sailing, catering to those new to offshore sailing and more seasoned sailors.

Our selection of unique bucket lists and less-traveled routes sets us apart, ensuring offshore sailing that’s both exhilarating and full of discovery. Our ethos is an unwavering commitment to safety and environmental sustainability, ensuring every voyage respects the sailors and the sea. Additionally, we are as focused on individual skill-building as a sailing school so that everyone is fully involved in every aspect of the passage. This holistic approach built Rubicon 3’s reputation as the go-to experts for anyone seeking the highest level of offshore sailing.

Want to join?

Go to the Dates & Prices button to see this trip’s dates. It will also give you information on connecting travel, including where to fly and when and where to join the boat. Please note this is not a qualifying passage for RYA Yachtmaster Ocean. You can find our qualifying passages here.

Get Ready For…

  • Faroe Islands
    Spectacular Landscapes

    Iceland, the Westman Islands and the west coast of Scotland are some of the wildest and most beautiful regions in the world.

  • sailing instruction
    Full involvement & expert tuition

    Whatever your prior sailing experience, you’ll be helming, navigating, trimming sails and anchoring from day one, all with the highest quality tuition from the expert Rubicon 3 instructors. The more you’re involved the better!

  • sailing yacht
    It’s genuine adventure sailing

    Rubicon 3 expeditions are far more than just a sailing vacation. They immerse you in adventure, discovery and enable you to explore the world under sail

Sailing Area

Iceland to scotland sailing area map
The Yachts

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Key Information
What’s included

  • All food and accommodation on board

  • All fuel & berthing fees

  • Your own bunk and storage area

  • Use of oilskins

  • Use of lifejacket with PLB

  • All sailing tuition

  • RYA Competent Crew (supplementary fee)

What’s Not included

  • Your connecting travel to & from boat

  • Sailing & travel insurance

  • Meals you choose to eat ashore

  • Alcohol

  • Visas (where required)

  • Discretionary crew tip

Interested in dates & availability?

To see when this trip runs, its start and end locations, price to join the crew and availability, click on the ‘Dates, Prices & Travel’ button up top.

Discretionary tipping of the Rubicon 3 crew

We’ve priced this trip 5-10% lower than we otherwise would to allow you the option, at the end of your adventure, to offer a discretionary tip to the Rubicon 3 skipper and mate if you feel they’ve provided exceptional service. A combined tip of 5-10% is suggested but is entirely at your discretion and based on your satisfaction with their performance. See our FAQs here.

Got Questions? We’re Here to Help!

We get it – joining a major sailing adventure is a big decision, and it’s natural to have lots of questions before you book. Wondering who else will be onboard? What the experience will be like? These and many more questions are completely normal. While our homepage and FAQs provide loads of info, we know sometimes it’s best to talk it through. Don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, email, or live chat (at the bottom of the screen). Better yet, we’d suggest you schedule a call. Most crew who join do and find it really useful. We can discuss your options, answer every question, and make sure you’re booking on the perfect trip for you.

The Iceland to Scotland route runs in both directions, so check the ‘Dates’ & ‘Prices’ tab for exact details of each route. This is an example of the route from Seydisfjordur, Iceland, to Scotland and is a general description of what we can expect and some of the places we hope to visit. Exact timings and routings will be discussed with the crew when we know the weather forecast.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The voyage begins in Reykjavik, Iceland’s west coast hub and the starting point of this North Atlantic adventure. After joining the yacht, you will have time to settle in and meet your fellow crew members. A thorough safety briefing and preparation for the passage ahead will set the tone for the days to come. We will be training and preparing, then we’ll slip out into Reykjavik bay and find somewhere special to anchor for the night.

Reykjavik

Passage to the Westman Isles

Leaving the Reykjavik area, we chart a course towards the Westman Isles, a group of volcanic islands off Iceland’s southern coast. This offshore passage offers a mix of challenging sailing and incredible scenery, as the dramatic peaks of the isles come into view. Once docked, the opportunity to step ashore and explore the islands’ history and geology adds another dimension to the journey.

crew at sea in foulies

The Westman Isles, or Vestmannaeyjar, are a group of volcanic islands off Iceland’s southern coast. Known for their dramatic cliffs and abundant seabird colonies, including puffins, the isles offer a unique blend of natural and cultural history. The 1973 eruption of Eldfell reshaped Heimaey, the largest island, creating new land and earning the area the nickname “Pompeii of the North.” Ash-covered houses and lava fields tell the story of resilience and adaptation. Accessible only by sea or air, the Westman Isles provide a rare opportunity to experience the raw power of nature and the enduring spirit of its small community.

Westman Islands

Offshore to St. Kilda

The next leg of the voyage ventures into the open waters of the North Atlantic, bound for the remote archipelago of St. Kilda. Part of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, St. Kilda is renowned for its rugged isolation, dramatic cliffs, and fascinating history. Accessible only in settled weather, landing on St. Kilda is a rare privilege.

Hummingbird

If conditions are favorable, time ashore offers a unique opportunity to explore the abandoned village and learn about the extraordinary lives of its former inhabitants, who relied on seabirds for food, oil, and materials. St. Kilda was evacuated in 1930, marking the end of centuries of habitation in one of Europe’s most remote settlements. If weather prevents a stop, we will sail by, taking in the breathtaking views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose history is etched into the cliffs and ruins scattered across the islands.

St Kilda

Exploring the Outer Hebrides

From St. Kilda, the journey continues through the enchanting Outer Hebrides, with potential stops at islands such as Skye, Mull, or Rona, depending on conditions. Each offers its own blend of rugged coastlines, sheltered anchorages, and opportunities to experience Scotland’s unique culture.

sailing scotland

The voyage may include exploring ancient castles, tasting local whisky, or venturing into serene lochs surrounded by dramatic scenery. These islands provide a chance to immerse yourself in Gaelic heritage and witness the wild beauty of Scotland’s west coast. This stretch balances excellent sailing with the freedom to discover the rich history and natural wonders of the region.

Dates, Prices & Travel

Start Date & Location

August 4, 2026
Reykjavik, Iceland

End Date & Location

August 15, 2026
Oban, Scotland

Price

£2,299

Deposit

£999

Availability

Available

Booking Information
Trip Information

Start Date: August 4, 2026

Start Time: 09:00

Start Country: Reykjavik, Iceland

Start Port: Reykjavik

Start Marina: Reykjavik Harbour

End Date: August 15, 2026

End Time: 10:00

End Country: Oban, Scotland

End Port: Oban

End Marina: Oban Marina North Pier Pontoons

Find Flights For This Trip
Fly Into: Keflavik Airport (IATA Code: KEF)
Fly Out of: Glasgow Airport (IATA Code: GLA)
Search on Google Flights

* Flights are not included in the trip price.

Important Notes
Joining the boat
  • You will join the boat in Reykjavik, Iceland.
  • The international airport is called Keflavik (IATA code: KEF)
  • The trip starts at 9:00 AM on August 04 2026, so you will need to be in Reykjavik by August 03, 2026.
  • You have two options for accommodation on the night before the start date:
    • Stay in a hotel or AirBnB.
    • Alternatively, you can stay onboard the boat from 6:00 PM on a bed & breakfast basis. Select this option during your booking process.
Leaving the boat
  • You will leave the boat in Oban, Scotland.
  • The boat is scheduled to arrive into Oban on the evening of August 14, 2026, and you will need to disembark by 10:00 AM, August 15, 2026
General Notes
  • We have a very strong track record of meeting the scheduled end date, with only a few exceptions over a decade of sailing and across hundreds of thousands of miles of sailing. However, given the nature and distance of ocean crossings, we can’t guarantee it and recommend booking flexible onward travel from Scotland or at least allowing an extra day in your itinerary as a precaution.
  • You cannot stay on the boat after the trip end date.
  • Once you have booked, we will connect you up with other crew so you can liaise regarding connecting travel, meet up in advance etc.
  • If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
5-Point Pre-Booking Checklist

Before you finalize your booking, we suggest you run through our pre-booking checklist:

  1. Check Flights: Make sure you have found the right flights for your trip. Book them as soon as you have booked your Rubicon 3 trip.
  2. Travel Insurance: Once you’ve booked your trip with us, buy some sailing travel insurance. Read our full guide here.
  3. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Some countries require this for entry, so it’s crucial to check and renew your passport if necessary.
  4. Visas: Most sailors will not require any visas for this trip. However, if you are concerned, check any visa requirements for both your destination and any transit countries. If you do need a visa, processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your trip.
  5. Vaccinations and Health Checks: There are no vaccinations required for this trip. Make sure you have an acceptable level of fitness and agility. You can read our guide here. This is for the safety of all on board.
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