Etive Boat Trips offers unforgettable experiences on Scotland’s west coast, from wildlife and scenic cruises to private and specialist charters. Based in Oban and operating across Loch Etive and the Firth of Lorn.
ETIVE BOAT TRIPS
Etive Boat Trips is a small, locally run business based in Oban, offering boat trips and charters around Loch Etive and Scotland’s west coast. We focus on wildlife and scenic trips, as well as private and specialist charters for a wide range of uses.
Our vessel, Etive Explorer, is a 10 metre Blyth Catamaran licensed to carry up to 12 passengers and two crew members. With a wide 5 metre beam, she is a stable and comfortable boat, well suited to cruising, wildlife watching and longer trips.
Powered by twin 170hp Yanmar engines, Etive Explorer cruises at around 8–9 knots. The deck and island wheelhouse provide plenty of space to move around, with both open and sheltered seating available.
As a coded passenger vessel, Etive Explorer meets all required safety standards and is fully equipped for commercial operation. The catamaran is wheelchair accessible, dog-friendly, and suitable for passengers of all ages.
TEAM ETIVE
Etive Boat Trips is run by a small, experienced team who share a passion for the sea and Scotland’s west coast. Our crew includes Skipper Kyle Dods, Relief Skipper Chris Jackson (Jacko), and crew members Sam Dods, Ronald Blue, Ben & Innes, all working together to ensure every trip is safe, welcoming and memorable.
Kyle is the main skipper and owner of Etive Boat Trips. With extensive experience operating on Scotland’s west coast, Kyle combines professional seamanship with deep local knowledge of the area’s waters, wildlife and hidden places.
Friendly, approachable and highly experienced, Kyle is passionate about sharing the west coast with others and ensuring every trip is safe, relaxed and enjoyable.
Chris has had a long and varied career at sea, beginning as a Royal Navy Clearance Diver before working as a commercial diver in the UK and overseas. After many years away from the water, Chris and his wife Helen moved to Oban to return to life at sea.
Chris holds a Commercially Endorsed Advanced Power Boat Licence, allowing him to carry 12 passengers up to 20 miles from a safe haven, day or night. He is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and always keen to share his love of the west coast with guests on board.
BOAT TRIPS
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Sit back, relax and enjoy your time on the water.
