Our recent guests, Ian and Fiona Woods, sent in a lovely review of their recent cruise. Ian mentioned that the cruise gave some spectacular highlights but for him the encounter with the humpback whale on the return leg was amazing but even better was the sunset off the Cairns of Coll. The evening meal had just finished when Skipper Bren came to announce that the sunset promised to be spectacular. Ian spent a good hour on the top deck photographing the beauty of the sunset and became aware of something special as Zoe, Hannah and Bren remained on top. There was total silence as they reflected on the profoundness of the scene. Both of those episodes led Ian to compose 2 poems which he read on the final night of the cruise - much to everyone's enjoyment. With Ian's permission, we publish them here so you can enjoy them too.
Whale Song
I see you Traveller
Sailing through my life
On your short journeys
You glimpse of me
Just fleeting moments
Enough, I think, to bring pleasure
But my journeys are long
In the deep ocean
Without the borders you create
Sometimes, you will see me
Leap high into your world,
Into your memory, into your dreams
When you are far from these seas
I will still swim through your life
You will never forget me
Sunset – Cairns of Coll
It is one thing
To hear just the lapping of waves
And the cry of seabirds
As the sun sets on the
Cairns of Coll
But nothing
Prepares for the moment
When clouds are thrown aside
And the light blazes forth
Like a warrior in death throes
And this is special
This commands silence from the watchers
The daily dying of the light
Piercing individual hearts
There is resurrection tomorrow
Always believe it loved ones
We were on the Shaints and Summer Isles cruise. Our first ever. The Elizabeth G was perfect, totally immaculate, spotlessly clean and beautifully presented. The cabins were cosy and comfortable with excellent storage facilities. The outdoor decks were fabulous for enjoying the beauty of the Hebrides. We felt so much at home for the wonderful 10 days.of our holiday. The food was incredible; varied and healthy, as it was so freshly prepared, with plentiful fruit and vegetables. We looked forward to the delight of the dining experience in the lovely, cosy, sociable salon. Absolutely up there with any of the best restaurants we have been to, imaginative and beautifully presented. The whole crew were absolutely amazing. Competent, supportive, welcoming and interesting. We felt totally safe and secure under their guidance. We loved the adventure of travelling between the islands and lochs and it was great to get a walk with the wildlife guide every day. There is nothing we didn't love about the holiday, and we hope to return. THANK YOU all.
Gill and Mike Huhges: 19 May 2025Far-flung islands: Shiants & the Summer Isles