The Monach Islands lie approximately 4 miles west of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides. Several of our 2017 cruises visit The Monach Isles, for more information visit our cruise calendar here> or get in touch with Emma. The Monach Islands are a lovely set of islands that have it all; remoteness, the “machair” (coastal land covered in many wild flowers) and stunning beaches. This is the perfect place for sunsets as it is open to the west from nearly every aspect. The extensive sand dunes are perfect for beach landings by tender and the fairly flat landscape makes easy walking, but with breathtaking views.
There are sheltered anchorages on the west and east side of the three main islands, Ceann Ear, Ceann Iar and Shivinish. These islands are all linked at low tide with white sandy beaches and turquoise blue sea surrounding them; an idyllic landscape.
A natural paradise
The Monach Islands are a National Nature Reserve and home to one of the biggest colonies of grey seals in the world. The also support one of the largest single black guillemot colonies in the UK. Over 100 bird species have been recorded on the islands of which 31 are known to nest. Unusually, the dunes are the chosen nesting site of fulmar, which would normally prefer high rocky ledges
Fascinating History
A poignant piece of history relates to the grave of a 1st world war submariner Otto W Schatt who was found washed up on a beach and buried on the islands on 5th March 1918. The grave is still visited every few years by family members. An interesting small museum is in one of the restored houses, where you can find a menu for ‘Shag Soup’ a favourite for bygone inhabitants describing it as a favourite dish.
Dear Emma - Firstly, let me say a huge thank you to Rob, Craig, Bumble and Zoë for the wonderful way they made us feel so welcome and at home on Elizabeth G. Thanks too to Elizabeth G for being such a safe and reliable vessel. We wish the weather had been kinder but we always were able to take advantage of the trips ashore and saw some superb woldlife. We really enjoyed Bumble's great cooking and Zoë's excellent wildlife knowledge. Craig was amazing in the way he switched roles seamlessly and helped with the trips ashore. Rob's seamanship and experience was greatly admired and no more so than the day he responded to the Mayday call. He was also great to chat to and kept us amused in the wheelhouse on long wet passages with tales of colourful characters from his decades of association with the sea. It was an amazing experience - thank you.
Sue Hurst: 16 June 2022Far-flung islands: Harris, Taransay & the Flannan Isles