Although it may seem from our cruising calendar that we only work seven months of the year, the winter months are very busy indeed! At the end of the 2019 season, both vessels transferred along the coast to their wintering mooring at Dunstaffnage Marina. Apart from a break for Christmas and New Year, the annual maintenance is ongoing throughout the winter months, where all boat systems are checked for upgrades and repairs, and the fittings and finishes are refreshed and refurbished for a new season. This winter, Emma Jane is getting a complete new central heating system for the comfort of guests. Last year saw the major conversion of Elizabeth G to ensuite cabins, which has met the full approval of her many admirers. This winter we took on another major upgrade for Elizabeth G by extending the top deck to provide a new aft deck space. This will provide a new comfortable deck seating area which will have a detachable cover which can be used whatever the weather, perfect for alfresco drinks and snacks while soaking in the scenery during the day. It will also be the popular place in the evening for that after-dinner dram and a bit of stargazing. Images of the completed new deck will be coming soon!
Once all upgrades and maintenance are complete, both vessels go on the slip for a complete exterior paint so they will look spic and span for the arrival at the pontoons in Oban to greet the crews for the new season. The last, but very important task is to carry out the week-long annual training and induction for the crew, followed by a great feeling of expectancy and pleasure as they welcome onboard the first guests of 2020.
From the very first contact in early 2018, Emma was so helpful and even showed me around Emma Jane when I was holidaying in the area in May 2018. As a private charter it was so easy to book the whole cruise and with a group of keen fellow cruisers the procedure was straightforward. Any information required was always quickly dealt with by Emma. There was plenty of room inside for both dining and seating for discussing our days and planning ahead .The outside space for wildlife viewing was wonderful, the high viewing area above the bridge was perfect for whales and birds, the bow area for dolphins who enjoyed our company on several occasions. Even the Hot Tub was enjoyed by eight of the nine cruisers. Three perfect and varied meals per day produced by our culinary expert chef were an important part of the whole experience. The boat was always spotless thanks to our bosun. We saw Whales , Dolphins. Seals. Eagles and sea birds by the thousand. We had four wonderful knowledgable crew, good weather, great food, good friends, amazing scenery and a sun tan!! For goodness sake get on and book before they are sold out!
Peter Newell: 20 June 2019Private Charter 10 Nights