We decided to enter for The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2023 because it celebrates the wealth of family businesses of all sizes and in all sectors across the country. The awards also recognise that family-owned businesses make a huge contribution to the Scottish economy. We believe it’s because we are a family business that we are able to transmit our own vision and values in the way we run our business and provide a quality service to our guests.
Therefore we are delighted that we have been shortlisted as a finalist in the categories that we entered of "Customer Service Excellence" and "Scottish Family Business of the Year (Micro)."
In addition to our own entries, we were also open to nominations from third parties, and our Judging Panel, for those they believe should be recognised. So to our complete surprise, we are also shortlisted as a finalist in the categories of "Green Family Business of the Year" and "Rural Family Business of the Year"! It was very exciting to hear we are finalists in four categories! Excellent customer service and our green credentials are the foundations of our family business, and it is very rewarding to have these recognised.
We (Rob, Emma and James) are looking forward to the awards ceremony on December 7th in Glasgow and meeting some of the many other thriving family businesses in Scotland.
Whatever the outcome, we are delighted to be represented in this great event which promotes and highlights this vital sector.
Emma is the consumate professional in every detail covering the booking of any cruise, and dealing with any queries etc, and as a bonus she performs all this in such a friendly way ! The Hebrides Cruises team have this down to a fine art, the welcome is first class, and the handling of the luggage etc is so reassuring. Likewise, the assistance given on leaving the cruise is above and beyond, offers of help arranging taxis etc is always there, and the luggage is carried up to the end of the pier for all. That said, leaving the Emma Jane is always the least enjoyable part of any cruise, its like leaving good friends ! This was a wonderful cruise, helped somewhat by the glorious weather, but it was the pace of the whole thing that was absolute perfection. No having to dash anywhere, no trying to catch up, just a thoroughly laid back and ultimately very enjoyable cruise. Yes, the wildlife was unforgettable, but the scenery, and the history combined with the willingness of the crew to add that cherry to the top of the cake on a daily basis made this the perfect cruise – even those less interested in wildlife would enjoy this cruise I’m sure.The crew excelled in absolutely everything, the meals were sublime, the service/care provided by the crew was I believe, unbeatable, and everything was clean and in the right place. AS ALWAYS ! Yes, there are other vessels offering perhaps similar-looking cruises, but look a little deeper, check the reviews, and if possible, check the smiles of the guests as they finish their cruise. I’m lucky enough to have been on a few Hebrides Cruises adventures now, and one of the more telling things is the number of repeat customers that keep coming back. I think that speaks volumes !
Steve Lloyd: 3 June 2023Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles