Ayrshire & Arran – coast to coast
The sheltered waters of the Firth of Clyde make a perfectly wonderful playground for anyone who loves being on or beside the sea. The estuary has that magical west coast of Scotland feel, but getting there is so quick you can spend your time relaxing rather than travelling. That means a few more hours to stroll along a wide beach, dodging each wave as it wets the golden sand a little higher. Or an extra day to point your bow towards distant hills while crystal clear water slides under your hull.
The obvious starting point is the highly accessible Ayrshire coast, with its 80 miles of headlands, harbours and sandy strands. From here rugged Arran and gentle Great Cumbrae are within easy reach. Between them the two islands double the length of coastline available to explore, adding even more variety to the mix with sleepy villages and uninhabited shores.
As befits an area with a world-class reputation for yachting, Ayrshire boasts three superb marinas: Largs, Ardrossan and Troon. All three are accessible at any tide and offer berths for visiting and resident yachts, as well as charters for competent sailors. They are the gateway to a whole world of different seascapes. Within a few hours sailing you'll discover lochs and islands, fishing villages and Victorian resorts, with peaceful anchorages in wooded bays or near welcoming hostelries. Ayrshire & Arran guarantee stunning coastlines, coupled with a warm welcome ashore.
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