Loch Spelve
56°22.7'N 005°44.6'W · Craignure (Mull, CalMac ferry) (6nm)
3–8m
Depth
Excellent
Holding
85m
Alarm radius
Low
Crowd level
Loch Spelve is a hidden gem on Mull's southeast coast — a deep, landlocked sea loch that provides virtually complete all-weather shelter and a profound sense of wilderness. The entrance narrows restrict entry to near-HW conditions (bar dries 0.2m above CD) but once inside, the loch opens to a spacious anchorage surrounded by moorland hills. An active oyster farm occupies the northern section — anchor clear of the floats and lines. No facilities whatsoever, but the solitude and security make it a favourite for those caught in Atlantic gales or simply seeking an unforgettable wild anchorage. Red deer frequently visit the waterline at dawn.
Best Months
Anchor Zones
Inner loch — main anchorage off the head
Excellent3–8m · Alarm: 85m
Anchor in 3–7m (CD) in the inner basin, choosing a position clear of the oyster farm floats (marked on chart). Soft mud throughout — outstanding holding for all anchor types. The loch is virtually landlocked and provides all-round shelter even in the most severe Atlantic weather. Completely deserted — no facilities, no other boats except in peak season. Enter via the narrows (2.5m LAT) carefully near HW to avoid the shallow bar.
Setting Your Anchor Alarm
85m radius appropriate for the inner loch. The loch is so well sheltered that even in storm conditions the surface remains flat. The only concern is the tide — with 3.8m range, depths at HW can be 6–11m, so ensure sufficient rode. In neap tides the radius can be reduced to 70m. A 360-degree protection rating makes this one of the most secure anchorages on Mull.
Recommended radius: 85m
Hazards & Warnings
- !Entrance bar dries at LAT — entry only safe within 2 hours of HW; check tide tables carefully before approach
- !Oyster farm lines and floats in the northern section — approach in daylight only and keep well clear
- !Tidal range 3.8m springs — plan scope for actual depth at anchor time; the loch is tidal throughout
- !No mobile signal in most of the loch — download charts and weather forecasts before entry
- !Mud bottom can smear the chain — flake carefully on recovery to avoid deck damage
Skipper's Tips
- ✓Enter on a rising tide starting 2 hours before local HW — this gives a comfortable margin over the bar and time to anchor before the ebb
- ✓Anchor near the head of the loch for maximum shelter and furthest distance from the entrance narrows
- ✓Carry provisions for at least 2 days — it is easy to be weather-bound here, and that is rarely a hardship
- ✓Red deer visit the loch head at dawn — worth setting an early alarm for the spectacle
- ✓The mud is very sticky and good for all anchor types — a Bruce or Rocna will bury to the shank in minutes
Facilities
Anchoring Rules
- Permit:
- Not required
- Fee:
- Free
- Restrictions:
- Anchor well clear of oyster farm floats and lines — these are a working farm, not navigational marks. Enter on a rising tide near HW to safely clear the 2.5m (CD) bar at the narrows. No facilities ashore.
Sleep Safely at Loch Spelve
Set your anchor alarm to 85m. UK tidal ranges mean your boat swings — Safe Anchor Alarm keeps watch through the night.
Download Safe Anchor Alarm — Free