There is still much to learn about the oceans; the creatures that inhabit our waters and the challenges they face. Our research expeditions are not just about fantastic wildlife encounters, the data collected helps deepen the understanding of Hebridean marine wildlife and helps protect it for future generations.
Twenty-four species of whale, dolphin and porpoise have been recorded in Hebridean waters, alongside the endangered basking shark. With your help, we have started to uncover some of the mysteries surrounding these fascinating creatures.
Join our passionate crew and embark on an adventure on board our research vessel, Silurian. During the live-aboard expeditions, you will learn how to identify marine wildlife, be trained in how to collect data, meet like-minded people and share in a truly unforgettable experience.
Explore the beautiful and wild west coast of Scotland, reconnect with nature and be part of the adventure.
Silurian Facts:
Berths 10 people: 6 volunteers and 4 crew
15 different species have been recorded
Over a year of underwater recordings collected
Surveyed 120,000km (and counting!)
Used in the filming of BBC Blue Planet and Whale with Steve Backshall
Life Aboard Silurian
Silurian is a hard working vessel, and the expeditions are very much a ‘working holiday’, with participants involved in all aspects of the experience: collecting visual and acoustic data, and domestic duties like cooking and cleaning.
Research Expeditions
Join the passionate team on board to explore the Hebrides and work as marine mammal field researchers. Absolutely no experience is required as full training in species identification and visual and acoustic data collection is provided. You can choose between three different rendezvous locations: Tobermory, Mallaig and Ullapool.
Research Expedition
Every year we attempt to survey as much of the Scottish west coast as possible. Trip itineraries aren’t pre-planned, so you will never be quite sure where you will end up on your expedition - each night is spent in a different stunning location. Depending on your rendezvous, you’ll perhaps travel far west of the Outer Hebrides or sail around the breath taking Argyll Isles. Adventure awaits
Duration: 7-12 days
Cost: from £1,425 per person
Participant age: 18+
Joint Warrior expedition
Expeditions are scheduled to coincide with the NATO military exercise, Joint Warrior, in autumn annually. We believe it is important to monitor whale and dolphin presence and behaviour during these exercises. Unusual behaviour has been documented historically and we are committed to better understanding the impact of these activities on cetaceans.
Duration: 9 days
Cost: from £1,760 per person
Participant age: 18+
Teen RESEARCH EXPEDITION
Teen Research Expeditions provide a fantastic experience for young environmentalists. You will gain the fundamental skills required to forge a career in conservation. Have first hand experience of being a field biologist. The protocol during these expeditions is exactly the same as the standard expeditions, however there will be more crew provision to offer insight and support
Duration: 7 days
Cost: £1,550 per person
Participant age: 16-17
Expedition Timetable
Click on the button below for details of the 2025 timetable, follow the links to secure your berth by completing booking and payment online.
Track Silurian Live Through the Hebrides!
If the map does not show Silurian's position in the centre of the screen, it is because she is out of range (e.g. too far offshore). You might need to try again later. When out of range, the map defaults to Silurian's mooring in Tobermory Bay.
If the map is not showing correctly on your device please follow this link to the full screen map
THE IMPACT
The data gathered by you demonstrates how important Hebridean seas are for marine wildlife. Delve into our Marine Mammal Atlas, celebrating the contribution people have made to the knowledge and understanding of whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks in Scottish seas.
