Travel Note for Our Canadian Guests

We’re so happy many of you plan to join us in Scotland for our wedding — and to make your travel as smooth as possible, here’s a heads-up about the new ETA requirement.

What is the UK ETA — and who needs it

The UK ETA is a digital travel authorisation you must obtain before travelling to the UK if you don’t already have a visa, or UK/Irish citizenship/residency.

As Canadians travelling on a Canadian passport, you’ll need an ETA for short visits — even if it’s just for a holiday, tourism, visiting friends/family, or attending our wedding.

What you need to do — and when

Apply online (via the official site): https://www.gov.uk/eta/apply

You’ll need a valid passport, an email address, and a payment method for the fee.

The standard application fee is £16. ($29.51 CAD)

ETA holders get approval very quickly — many receive it almost instantly, though it’s wise to apply at least a few days before your flight in case extra review is needed.

What having an ETA means for your trip

Once approved, your ETA is valid for 2 years (or until the passport used expires, whichever comes first).

You’re allowed to make multiple trips to the UK within that validity period.

Each time you visit, you can stay for up to 6 months — the ETA covers typical visits for tourism, family/friends, short-term business or study.

Having an ETA does not guarantee entry — you’ll still need to satisfy border-entry checks on arrival.

Our Advice to You

Since you don’t need an ETA if you already hold a visa or UK/Irish citizenship, check that first. Otherwise — please plan to get your ETA as soon as you know you’re coming. Doing it early will save you last-minute stress.

If you’re unsure about how to apply, or want help with the process, just reach out to us — happy to walk you through it.

We can’t wait to see you in the UK and celebrate together!

With love,

Ally & Tam

The main ferry to the Isle of Mull is from Oban with a 45-minute to one-hour crossing to Craignure. Other routes are available from Lochaline and Kilchoan. All ferries are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), and vehicle reservations are recommended, especially for the Oban to Craignure route.

Main ferry route

From: Oban (mainland Scotland)

To: Craignure (Isle of Mull)

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour

Frequency: Multiple sailings daily, operated by CalMac

Vehicle transport: Yes, cars are allowed and reservations are highly recommended

Other ferry routes

From: Lochaline (Mainland, near Morvern)

To: Fishnish (Isle of Mull)

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

Frequency: Multiple sailings daily, operated by CalMac

Vehicle transport: Yes, cars are allowed and reservations are recommended

Other ferry routes

From: Kilchoan (Mainland, near Ardnamurchan)

To: Tobermory (Isle of Mull)

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

Frequency: Multiple sailings daily, operated by CalMac

Vehicle transport: Yes, cars are allowed and reservations are recommended

Important information

Booking: It is strongly recommended to book vehicle reservations in advance, especially for the Oban to Craignure route, as it is the most popular and can get busy.

Timetables: Ferry schedules can change with the seasons, for maintenance, or for other reasons, so it is essential to check the CalMac website for the most up-to-date information before you travel.

Driving in the Scottish Highlands requires caution due to narrow, winding roads and single-track routes with specific etiquette for using passing places. Be prepared for slow-moving vehicles, animals, and changing weather conditions. Remember to drive on the left and pay attention to road signs, especially for blind summits and corners.

ROAD ETIQUETTE

Single-Track Roads: These are two-way roads, so be prepared to use passing places, which are small bays at the side of the road, to let oncoming traffic pass.

Passing places: When you see a vehicle coming toward you, pull into a passing place on your left to let them pass. If the passing place is on your right, stop on the left side of the road opposite it.

Hills: Give way to vehicles coming uphill when possible.

Pulling over: If you are driving behind a slower vehicle, use passing places to allow them to overtake you, which prevents frustration and potential accidents.

Passing: Do not park in passing places, as they are reserved for letting other traffic pass.

Signs: Familiarize yourself with UK road signs and watch out for hazards like blind summits and dips in the road.

Driving conditions

Narrow and winding: Roads can be narrow, winding, and steep, so take your time and be prepared for slower speeds than you might be used to.

Animals: Be vigilant for livestock, particularly sheep, on the roads, especially in un-fenced areas.

Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for fog, rain, and wind, which can reduce visibility and make roads slippery.

Road edges: Many rural roads don't have shoulders, and the edges can be soft or crumbling. Stay well within your lane to avoid damaging your tires.

Speed: While single-track roads have a speed limit, use common sense based on the conditions. You may need to drive slower than the speed limit, but be aware that locals can drive faster on clear stretches.

Other important tips

Driving on the left: This is the most important rule for non-UK drivers. It can feel unnatural at first, so take your time and be mindful, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

Navigation: Use a GPS with voice commands and pre-load your route to avoid getting distracted. We recommend downloading your map ahead of time due to patchy service.

Alcohol: Scotland has strict drink-driving laws. A single dram of whisky could put you over the legal limit, so don't drink and drive.

Electric cars: Be aware that charging points can be scarce and sometimes out of order in remote Highland area.