24 June 2019
We’re just back from a superb 10-night cruise aboard Elizabeth G. It’s our latest trip with Rob and his crew. With en-suite cabins now it’s even more of a luxury trip. Not that we spent much time in the cabin - instead we were generally found on the top observation deck, watching shearwaters dance across the waves, fulmars shoot past effortlessly, gannets flying in squadron-formation and panicky puffins duck beneath our wake. We’re enticed down for two reasons: bow-riding dolphins, when we hang over the bow sharing the excitement and energy of this spectacle with our fellow guests, and food: Mags was our cook preparing fabulous meals with local ingredients, including scallops hand-dived by our skipper, Rob. It was at dinner each evening that Rob would discuss the next day’s itinerary, balancing our wishes with the weather and his incredible knowledge of the most picturesque anchorages. Each day saw us exploring a new island with the help of Nigel our wildlife guide, taken ashore by Rob and Bosun Craig in the tender. And we even got to St Kilda. St Kilda is a unique place with a magical atmosphere; an atmosphere that lingers in part because of its remoteness. Rob found the weather window to allow a 2-night stay and it was here, on our trip round the stacs, that guests and crew came together on the front deck to gaze in awe at the thousands of seabirds around us. As we disembarked, a little sadly, in Oban on our last day I couldn’t help wonder how soon we’ll get the urge to return...
Catrin Lester
A very positive experience. Right from stepping onto the pontoon the crew were helpful, friendly, welcoming and considerate. The weather was not the best for the week, but the crew had a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C at all times. The scenery every day was spectacular, and the skipper ensured that the boat motored at a suitable speed to enjoy it all. The walks onshore were very enjoyable. Crew knowledge was excellent. At all times throughout the week, the crew were patient, understanding and tolerant, willing to spend time answering questions and prioritizing the customers, no matter what other tasks were to be done. All the crew were courteous, professional and welcoming, putting the wishes and comfort of customers first. The food was of excellent quality, it was lovely to have fresh food every meal, with freshly made bread too! Jaya provided a fabulous range of meals, with something different every time and the beautiful table settings were a huge credit to Sophia! There is absolutely nothing that can be faulted in the cruise!
Paul Ritson: 13 April 2024Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles