Skipper Mark Henrys runs an easy-going operation, providing a diving programme suited to the needs of his passengers while allowing for the vagaries of weather in the Western Isles. Nestling at the upper end of the market, this vessel was built specifically for liveaboard diving.

This could become the most famous boat in Oban, thanks to its appearance in a new film, An Inch Over the Horizon, starring Bob Hoskins and Maureen Lipman.

Elizabeth G ia a 23 metre former rescue work boat, originally designed to operate in the hostile waters of the Artic supporting Norwegian fishing trawlers. Extensively refitted, it has been re-designed and equipped to meet the demands of the discerning dive guest intent on visiting remote UK dive locations in comfort and some style.

Gaelic Rose - dive boat charter specialising in fully catered dive trips to Scotland and Norway, sleeps 12. Air and nitrox onboard based at Oban, Argyll

Hardly a floating gin palace, but more than handy for divers who want a no-frills tour of the Clyde shipwrecks. During the summer it tends to be based in Oban, an ideal base from which to visit the Sound of Mull.

Scuba dive the Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands on the liveaboard, Hans Hansson

Hjalmar Bjørge is a 23m ex-Norwegian ice-class rescue vessel purchased by Mark and Hannah in 2002. Since undergoing an extensive refurbishment this outstanding small ship combines luxury and comfort with seaworthiness eminently suited to adventurous sea voyages for up to 12 passengers.

The skipper/owner, Andy Cuthbertson, is an experienced boatman and diver with many years working and diving in Scapa Flow and Orkney waters. He has also been doing more technical trips so please as for further details. He has a vast knowledge of the history and location of wrecks so, if there are any questions, just ask him! He is a DoT/RYA certified skipper as well as having HSE, IANTD and sport diving qualifications.

MV Karin is a converted North Atlantic trawler, a sturdy old boat with a large kitting up space amidships. In true UK live-aboard style, accommodation is a little rough and ready but nothing worse than your average third world budget hostel.

Oban Based Loyal Mediator, Luxury 80ft liveaboard diving charter for 12 divers. Cruising Sound of Mull, Hebrides, Skye, Ireland & St Kilda. All inclusive prices. Diving wreck and scenic dives all year round. Guaranteed sheltered water. Air, Nitrox & Trimix available.