Key Points
The MV Sheerwater runs day trips from Arisaig Marina to the Small Isles (Eigg, Muck, and Rum) from April to August. Arisaig is an hour's drive from Highwinds. Adults from £12.50, children £7.50, dogs and infants free.
Setting Off from Arisaig Marina
We arrived at Arisaig Marina at around 9:20am and were immediately treated to a complimentary breakfast roll and coffee. The marina cafe is a lovely spot in its own right. It has those famous views out across the water to the Isle of Eigg, and on a clear day you can see exactly where you're headed.
This particular trip was an open day, organised so that locals could experience what visitors to the area enjoy on the ferry. What struck me most was the community spirit, businesses like Sound Bites cafe, Arisaig Community Trust, and the marina itself to name a few all came out to support each other. Everyone got on brilliantly, and it really showed Arisaig in its best light. It's a genuinely friendly, supportive community and that came through in every conversation.
The Crossings - Dolphins, Seals and Seabirds
The MV Sheerwater departed Arisaig at 10am sharp. The crossing to Eigg takes about an hour, and it's an hour well spent. Keep your eyes on the water, we spotted a dolphin, seals basking on rocks, and plenty of seabirds along the way. The views back to the mainland, Eigg, Skye and across to Rum are stunning, especially as the Small Isles start to take shape on the horizon.
An Hour on Eigg
We arrived at Eigg around 11am and had about an hour on the island before the ferry moved on to Muck. Rather than rush a walk, we headed straight for the vistor centre near the pier which included, a cafe, bar, gift shop and local produce. It was the right call; we sat with a drink and took in an incredible view across the water. Eigg has a relaxed, unhurried feel that hits you the moment you step off the boat.
If you want more time to explore Eigg properly, perhaps walking up to An Sgurr or visiting the famous Singing Sands beach the timetable offers 5-hour options on certain days. But even a shorter stop gives you a real taste of island life.
Two Hours on Muck
We arrived at Muck around 12:30pm and had until 2:30pm to explore. First stop was Choc Ness, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. They serve incredible homemade soups, sandwiches, pizzas, and cakes. I had the BLT, a pizza, and the millionaire's shortbread, all outstanding. It's the kind of food you don't expect to find on a tiny island in the middle of the sea.
After lunch, we walked across to the beach on the far side of the island. From there you get incredible views back to Eigg and across to the Isle of Rum. The whole island has maybe 40 residents and it feels wonderfully remote but in a welcoming, not isolated, way.
Practical Information
Getting There
Arisaig Marina is about an hour's drive from Highwinds Lodge via the A830, one of the most scenic roads in Scotland, known as the Road to the Isles. There's free parking at the marina, but try to park considerately to help fit everyone in.
The Boat
The MV Sheerwater is operated by Arisaig Marine Ltd and runs from April to August. It serves all three Small Isles, Eigg, Muck, and Rum with different routes on different days of the week.
Prices (2026)
Eigg: £12.50 adult / £7.50 child (3–15). Muck: £15 adult / £7.50 child. Rum: £17.50 adult / £12.50 child. Infants (0–2) and dogs travel free but must be booked. A booking fee applies to online reservations.
Timetable Highlights
The Eigg + Muck combination we did runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays (and Mondays from June). Departs Arisaig at 10:00, arrives Eigg 11:00, on to Muck by 12:00, departs Muck 15:00, back to Arisaig by 17:00. Thursdays offer Eigg + Rum instead. Tuesdays feature a morning non-landing boat trip and an afternoon Eigg visit. Check arisaigmarine.co.uk for the full timetable.
What to Bring
Warm layers (it's always cooler on the water), waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, camera, and cash for the island cafes. Sun cream on good days - the reflection off the water catches you out.
Would I Recommend It?
Without hesitation. The combination of the crossing itself (wildlife, views, the open sea), the island stops, the friendliness of all those at Arisaig Marine and the quality of the food on Muck made this one of the best day trips I've done from Fort William. It's an easy hour's drive from Highwinds along one of Scotland's finest roads, and you're back by early evening. Whether you're into wildlife, walking, photography, or simply want to set foot on a genuine Scottish island, this is the trip.
Book ahead, the Sheerwater isn't huge and the popular sailing days fill up, especially in July and August.