We are delighted that we have been shortlisted in the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards 2024 for "Innovation in Tourism"! Our innovation is to undertake primary research on cetacean sightings as the main purpose of selected cruise itineraries. In this way, we can help the understanding, and conservation of, the marine animals that our guests encounter, which is a vital part of their cruise experience. This innovative combination of small-ship cruises, offering both luxury and wildlife research, is the result of a lifetime passion of Hebrides Cruises owner Rob Barlow, with the support and knowledge of his son in law, James, and our enthusiastic crews and guests.
Our close association with the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) has been instrumental in our innovation journey, from our initial involvement in the testing of the Whale Track App, to helping us source qualified wildlife crews for our cruises. Our crews’ excellent ability to find, spot and identify cetaceans is a highlight for our guests, as well as providing vital data for the Whale Track App.
Our movement towards research as an integral part of our cruises began in 2022 when “Whale Watching in the Northern Minch” was launched to search for and record certain species. The number and range of whales and other cetaceans seen was outstanding during both the 2022 and 2023 cruises.
Our new cruise “In Search of Giants: Expedition Cruise” is purely for research purposes. Dr Conor Ryan, a specialist whale scientist, will be on board as we search for migrating whales around the continental shelf-edge west of St. Kilda, a research project which has never been conducted. To document this migratory route will be a highly significant contribution to the scientific knowledge of whales and their potential recovery.
These specialist research itineraries provide not only the excitement of new discoveries but also our high standard of luxury accommodation and hospitality aboard our sturdy ocean-going ships, while exploring remote and idyllic areas of the Western Isles and the Hebrides. Apart from cetaceans, other wildlife is regularly seen, from otters and red deer to eagles and many species of marine bird life.
The inaugural “In Search of Giants” cruise departs on August 4th 2024 and is fully booked.
I recently had the pleasure of embarking on an unforgettable cruise to the Hebrides Cruises ( Skye, Small Islands,and the Shiants, in Scotland ( May 13-21, 2023), and I must say it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. The 8-day journey was filled with breathtaking scenery, fascinating insights, and a genuine sense of camaraderie among the 8 participants and 4 staff members on board. One of the highlights of this cruise was undoubtedly the exceptional staff. From the knowledgeable and enthusiastic naturalist to the experienced skipper, each member of the team showcased a remarkable dedication to our well-being and enjoyment throughout the trip. The naturalist's expertise and passion for the islands were evident in every interaction, making each wildlife sighting and nature excursion a truly enriching experience. The skipper's lifelong knowledge of the islands and the sea, along with his emphasis on safety, instilled a sense of confidence and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Hebrides. Not to be forgotten is the cook, whose culinary skills transformed each meal into a delightful gastronomic experience. Not only were the dishes healthy and delicious, but they were also beautifully presented, showcasing the cook's artistic talents. Finally, and not any less significant, was the boat swain's excellent customer service, always attentive to our needs and ensuring our comfort throughout the journey. His prompt response to any request with a touch of his humor, further added to the overall exceptional service on board. What set this cruise apart was the intimate atmosphere created by the small group size and the daily rituals shared among the participants. The shared adventures and delicious meals fostered a sense of closeness and allowed for meaningful connections to be formed. We gathered each day to recount our sightings of birds and sea life, engaging in storytelling and discussion. This combination of shared experiences and diverse perspectives, with travelers from different
Alison Kinsey: 13 May 2023Skye, the Small Isles and the Shiants