Visitor Information

Getting to Easdale Island

Easdale Island is Scotland’s smallest permanently inhabited island, renowned for its slate quarrying history and breathtaking natural beauty. As a car-free island, getting here is part of the adventure!

Driving & Parking on the Mainland

The ferry to Easdale Island departs from
Ellenabeich. The drive to Ellenabeich involves navigating a single-track road, so please be mindful of passing places. Car sharing is highly encouraged due to limited parking.

• Designated Car Parks:
  • Seil Island Community Hall (What3Words, Google Maps, Apple Maps)
  • Ellenabeich Car Park (What3Words, Google Maps, Apple Maps)
• Parking Funds: Any funds raised from parking go directly to local community projects on the Isle of Seil.

The Easdale Ferry: Your Ride to the Island

The Easdale ferry is a small, passenger-only speedboat-type vessel.

• Departure Point: Ellenabeich
• Cost: £2.70 per person
• Capacity: The ferry takes only 10 people at a time.
• Accessibility: Boarding the ferry requires managing two steep steps.
• Ferry Schedule for Championship Day:
  • 07:45: First Ferry of the Day
  • 21:00, 22:30 & 23:00: Last Ferries of the Day
• For regular timetable details, please refer to the Argyll & Bute Council website.

Public Transport & Taxis

Oban is the main transport hub for the area, and public transport from elsewhere is limited.

• Bus: For details of the 418 Bus Service, see the West Coast Motors website. Note: The drop-off point for Easdale is listed as ‘Turning area’ on the timetable.
• Taxis from Oban: A one-way trip from Oban to the competition will cost around £50.
  • A2B Taxis: 07493120917
  • Tower Taxis: 01631 569999
  • Lorn Taxis: 01631564744
  • Oban Taxis: 01631 564148
  • Etive Taxis: 01631 566880

Competitor Information

• Mandatory Check-in: All competitors must check in at the registration desk by 11:00 AM.
• Tossing Order: Please keep your numbered badge with you because you will need to get yourself over to the throwing area prior to your name being announced (e.g., if you are number 55, you should make your way to the throwing area by number 45).
• Categories: Please check your category with our registration team. If you are in the wrong category, please let our team know and your category can be changed.
• Team Event:
  • To enter, all team members must already be registered for this year’s Championships.
  • Your team can consist of up to four individuals, from any category.
  • The winning team will have the largest cumulative distance thrown by all four entrants, using three throws from each individual.
  • An individual can win in both the individual event and as part of a team from their one lot of three throws.
  • Team entry is £10 (£2.50 per person) and will be taken at check-in, where your team will be registered on the day. Please pay in cash if possible!
• Automatic Qualification for Next Year:
  • Anyone placed 1st or 2nd in any category, plus the top 10 Adult Female skimmers and the 50 top skimmers overall, will qualify automatically for the next Championship in 2026.
  • The top 50 skimmers will be determined by the top 50 throws recorded, regardless of category.
  • Entry fee will still be required for qualified participants.
  • Automatic qualification may be rescinded if the WSSC feels a competitor’s presence will be to the detriment, or safety, of the championship.
• Rules: It’s the World Championships, so of course there are going to be rules! We’ve got a handy page detailing the rules. Please have a look and make sure that you’re familiar with them.
• Footwear for Competitors: The stone skimming quarry itself requires descending an uneven, natural rock formation by foot. Only competitors will need to descend to the quarry, and they must wear good, sturdy footwear and be mindful of the weather and its impact underfoot.

Explore Easdale: Beyond the Skimming

Extend your visit and discover the rich history and vibrant community of Easdale Island.

• The Puffer: Our iconic island pub is a must-visit for its cosy atmosphere, good food, and local charm.
• Easdale Island Folk Museum: Delve into the island’s fascinating history as the centre of the Scottish slate industry.
• Seafari Adventures: Seafari offer thrilling boat trips to explore the local wildlife and the famous Corryvreckan Whirlpool.
• Siabann Eisdeal: Visit this local producer on the island for handcrafted soaps, whipped soaps, moisturiser bars, and shampoo bars, perfect for a unique souvenir.

The World Stone Skimming Championships are proudly organised by Eilean Eisdeal, the Easdale Island Community Development Group, a charity registered in Scotland (Charity Number SC027102).