About the business
Founded in 2014 by owner and operator David Steele, Uist Sea Tours has built a strong reputation for offering unforgettable wildlife and sightseeing experiences across the Hebrides. The business originally operated a single vessel, providing half-day and full-day trips around the Uist coastline and regular excursions to Mingulay, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, seabird colonies and rich marine life.
Demand for our tours has grown year on year, and we knew that expanding into St Kilda trips was the natural next step. Business Gateway’s support and access to loan funding allowed us to purchase our new vessel and make this ambition a reality.
How Business Gateway has helped
Over the years, demand for the company’s trips has grown steadily as more visitors seek immersive and authentic ways to explore the islands. Recognising an opportunity to expand into longer-distance journeys, David set his sights on offering trips to St Kilda, an iconic destination that attracts travellers from around the world.
To move forward with the expansion, David needed to invest in a larger, robust vessel that could offer passengers a comfortable and safe experience.
David approached Business Gateway for support and received one-to-one guidance from his dedicated adviser, Theresa Irving. She was able to provide strategic advice and signpost the business to a Comhairle nan Eilean Siar loan delivered through Business Gateway, which played a crucial role in the purchase of the new vessel in 2025.
The investment has been transformational for Uist Sea Tours. The addition of the larger boat has allowed the business to significantly broaden its offering, attract new customer markets and increase capacity during peak visitor season. The expansion into St Kilda trips marks an important milestone for the company, strengthening its position within the local tourism sector and supporting the wider visitor economy in the Outer Hebrides.
David Steele, founder, Uist Sea Tours, said: “Demand for our tours has grown year on year, and we knew that expanding into St Kilda trips was the natural next step. Business Gateway’s support and access to loan funding allowed us to purchase our new vessel and make this ambition a reality.”
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