Going all the way up the coast past Aberdeen could be a pain as all the heli trafic comes back down the coast that way(quiet at weekends tho). Inbound heli VFR traffic will either be at 1000 or 1500. Controllers are good but busy.
I tend to go via Banchory then west of Loch of Skeen avoiding the R22s. That keeps you out the way of most traffic, avoids the bigger hills and fog plus more direct with a better view. Just avoid the mast! Don't think I'd chance the water crossing without the right kit. The inverness route is much more interesting anyway. Have fun.
