We are delighted to share our very exciting news that Hebrides Cruises has purchased a third luxury vessel to join Emma Jane and Elizabeth G. It took three years to find the ideal new addition to our fleet, which will be named after Rob’s granddaughter and Emma’s daughter, Lucy Mary.
Our new vessel fits the criteria for all Hebrides Cruises ships - luxury accommodation, ocean-going endurance, excellent facilities, and sustainable credentials. She is a classic motor yacht of contemporary design, built in 1994 in Holland by renowned Lowland Yachts, and easily surpasses other vessels in her class for comfort and cruising range.
She is 23m in length, carrying 8 guests on board (10 for charter) in 4 ensuite cabins, including a master cabin suite. Her specially-built hull was strengthened for ocean cruising, while stabilisers and 5-bladed propellers ensure a comfortable and safe cruising experience. Like all our vessels, the tender is carried on board for a safe and fast voyage.
We are determined to continue on our sustainability journey and this ship ticks many boxes, which also contributes to our guest's comfort. The 2 Caterpillar engines are recognised for reliability and fuel efficiency; the 3 super-quiet generators have low fuel consumption, an air conditioning system allows for cool and hot air (which means no need for boilers, therefore fuel consumption is less) and there is a water maker.
The fittings and finishes of the ship are impeccable and elegant, from the custom-designed mahogany dining table, leather suites, a stylish bar area, and original artwork, to a stunning rear deck for alfresco eating and sunset drams. The Master Cabin Suite is very spacious and light, with a large, dressing room, a desk and a seating area. Mahogany flooring covers the main saloon inside deck, while exterior decks are finished in teak. Ensuite cabins are panelled with mahogany throughout, with cream carpets and polished stainless-steel portholes.
Like our other ships, Lucy Mary is ideal for wildlife watching, with excellent maneuverability when exploring seabird colonies on high cliffs, and going ashore in the remote corners of the Hebrides. She will have our standard crew of Skipper, Wildlife Guide, Chef and Steward, looking after 8 guests; we are certain they will love their time aboard our new vessel!
Lucy Mary will arrive in Oban in May 2023, and after some final touches, will start cruising from July on seven of our itineraries; and undertake a full calendar for 2024. If you were disappointed to miss out on booking a cruise with us this year, you now have a second chance, including a private cruise charter.
Have a look at the Lucy Mary Gallery for images of the new ship and click here for availability 2023 and 2024
Dear Emma - Firstly, let me say a huge thank you to Rob, Craig, Bumble and Zoë for the wonderful way they made us feel so welcome and at home on Elizabeth G. Thanks too to Elizabeth G for being such a safe and reliable vessel. We wish the weather had been kinder but we always were able to take advantage of the trips ashore and saw some superb woldlife. We really enjoyed Bumble's great cooking and Zoë's excellent wildlife knowledge. Craig was amazing in the way he switched roles seamlessly and helped with the trips ashore. Rob's seamanship and experience was greatly admired and no more so than the day he responded to the Mayday call. He was also great to chat to and kept us amused in the wheelhouse on long wet passages with tales of colourful characters from his decades of association with the sea. It was an amazing experience - thank you.
Sue Hurst: 16 June 2022Far-flung islands: Harris, Taransay & the Flannan Isles