THE ASYC 5 STAR SERVICES
All our members:
- Meet the safety requirements of the DTp Code of Practice for Small Commercial Vessels.
- Offer the highest standard of equipment and service.
- Are committed to offering the best in yachting holidays and tuition.
- Offer protection for forward payments.
- In the unlikely event of a dispute, offer free, legally binding arbitration through the Association.
The Association of Scottish Yacht Charters are a group of charter companies and sailing schools operating in Scotland and offering the widest choice of sailing holidays available in Scotland, including bareboat charter, skippered charter, and sailing tuition..
Why choose an ASYC member? The companies offering sailing in Scotland are generally small, where the way of life is as important as running a successful business. The service is personal with a close attention to the customers needs. However, the members of the ASYC also work together to offer a network of help and support, reassuring should there be a problem before or during your holiday. In addition, for peace of mind payments can be protected by making use of the ASYC Trust account and in the unlikely event of any disagreement, the ASYC offer a free arbitration service. All ASYC members subscribe to a Code of Conduct, available to view on the website, and use the MCA regulations as a starting point in equipping the boats. If you choose an ASYC member, whether bareboat or skippered, you will find a full complement of safety equipment for all members of the crew, up to date Admiralty paper charts of the sailing area along with up to date electronic navigation equipment. For your comfort most boats will now offer hot and cold water, fridges and heating. Full catering equipment is supplied and many companies can also offer bedding, towels, and waterproofs for a small extra charge, something to be considered if traveling far. A full inventory will be available prior to your booking.
Our members are based mainly on the Clyde and the West Coast, with many moving between both locations. The reasons are simple: these waters rank amongst the finest sailing areas in the world. The Clyde has bags of choice, from the bustle of the modern marinas on the mainland with all the facilities you would expect to, moving west, the islands of Cumbrae, Bute, and Arran to explore and further afield, Loch Fyne and the charming west coast fishing port of Tarbert. Distances between ports and anchorages are small with plenty of shelter should conditions deteriorate. To the west of the Clyde lie the waters of the west coast and the Hebrides. A passage there from the Clyde could be a rounding of the Mull of Kintyre or the shorter route, through the Crinan Canal. Although only eight miles long the Crinan Canal is one of the prettiest canal journeys in the UK and, for the west coast afficiando, the excitement as the gates open to lock out into Loch Crinan is palpable. However, it is not essential to make the passage to get here as there are several companies based throughout the area and many of the Clyde based companies also have a west coast base of operations during the summer months. It is hard to due justice to Scotland's west coast as a cruising ground. A lifetime could be spent sailing here and there will still be new anchorages to be found and places to explore. The islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides offer sheltered sailing, stunning scenery, and a wealth of anchorages. There are hills to climb, castles, ruins, and a fascinating history to explore. There is an abundance of wildlife from dolphins, whales, and seals, to otters and deer, and of course the birds, including large seabird colonies , and rarities such as the iconic great northern diver and the majestic sea eagle. Marinas and pontoon berths are few and far between once you leave the mainland but there are welcoming harbours, many with moorings available. Use your anchor and the choice is almost limitless. To see the Western Isles at their best, it has to be by sea.
There are many ways to get afloat with a member of the ASYC. For the more experienced there is a wide range of yachts available for bareboat charter. If you don't want the responsibility or just fancy a more stress free sailing experience, there are several members offering skippered charter. Here you will be able to sit back and relax or take part in the sailing, whichever suits your mood. Many members offer themed weeks such as wildlife cruises or trips such as to St Kilda or the Faeroes. If you want to learn to sail or improve your skills, several companies also offer the full range of RYA practical and theory courses.
A full list of members, contact information, and a location map are in the website. Check the late availability page for special offers!