Loch Aline

Loch Aline is the most sheltered anchorage on the Sound of Mull — a deep, almost landlocked sea loch on the Morvern peninsula opposite Mull. The loch's near-total protection makes it one of the finest storm refuges on the west coast, used by yachts and commercial vessels alike. Lochaline village has a small shop and the Whitehouse Restaurant — one of the most celebrated restaurants on the west coast (seafood tasting menus using only local produce; booking essential). The sand dredging operation (exporting high-purity silica sand used in specialist optical glass manufacturing) gives the loch a slightly industrial character but does not affect the quality of the anchorage.

Best Months

Anchor Zones

Hazards & Warnings

• !Sand dredging vessels — active weekday operations; anchor clear of the dredger's working area near the pier
• !CalMac ferry priority — keep clear of ferry approach and departure lane
• !Tidal range 3.5m springs — plan scope for HW depth
• !Silica sand on the seabed near the pier can foul anchors — avoid anchoring too close to the dredging jetty

Skipper's Tips

• ✓The Whitehouse Restaurant is one of the finest and most remote dining experiences on the west coast — book well in advance and plan your tidal departure around the reservation
• ✓Loch Aline is a superb storm refuge — if Atlantic weather pins you down on the Sound of Mull, this is where to wait it out
• ✓Morvern peninsula walking (the Beinn Iadain ridge above Loch Aline) offers outstanding views over the Sound of Mull — check the map for access
• ✓Tobermory (Mull) is directly across the Sound of Mull (5nm) — an easy hop in settled conditions

Facilities