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Fancy an unforgettable adventure on the wild and beautiful West Coast of Scotland? We’ve teamed up with VentureSail to offer one lucky Escapism reader the chance to win a taster sailing holiday aboard Bessie Ellen – a classic tall ship built in 1904 and lovingly restored for a true hands-on sailing experience.
Set sail from Oban and explore the stunning Hebrides islands, where dramatic coastlines meet abundant wildlife. Whether the wind takes you through the Sound of Mull or toward the remote Small Isles, you’ll discover uninhabited beaches, walk coastal trails, and spot puffins, dolphins, and more.
Bessie Ellen anchored off Ronay, Outer Hebrides
Kim and Del Hogg
No sailing experience is needed – just a spirit of adventure! Under the expert guidance of the crew, you’ll learn how to hoist sails, take the helm, or simply relax on deck soaking up the breathtaking views. Below deck, enjoy hearty home-cooked meals and the camaraderie of life onboard this historic vessel with comfortable berths and communal spaces.
Visit venturesailholidays.com for more information or follow @venturesail on Instagram and Facebook
Your prize
This four-night voyage includes:
- A fully skippered, hands-on sailing experience
- Exploration of Scotland’s most spectacular island scenery
- Warm hospitality and traditional tall ship life
- Four-night sailing holiday aboard Bessie Ellen
- Departure from Oban, Scotland 01/05/26 - 04/05/26, or 11/07/26 - 14/07/26
- Flights and transfers not included
The question is: Where does Bessie Ellen set sail?
Competition closes: 28th August 2025
The prize is for one person, and travel must be on a guaranteed taster voyage onboard Bessie Ellen, on either of two voyages: 01/05/26 - 04/05/26, or 11/07/26 - 14/07/26, subject to availability. The prize winner will be responsible for arranging and paying for travel costs before and after the voyage. The winner will need to buy adequate travel insurance for this holiday. The winner must be suitably fit, in good health, and able to climb a 2m ladder. If you are not, you will not be awarded this prize, and no alternative will be given. You will be required to complete a medical declaration. The prize is non-transferable. Entrants must be over the age of 18. VentureSail reserves the right to amend the terms of this prize without notice. The prize will be bound by our standard booking terms and conditions from points 3-8, and points 11-23.
