Some of our guests can have widely varying levels of ability such as mobility, sight, hearing and energy. If any guest has a concern as to whether our cruises are suitable for them, we can provide detailed information in advance of their cruise to help them assess their options. A mix of older and younger family members is popular, as all levels of fitness within the group can be enjoyed. We regret we cannot accommodate full-time wheelchair users due to the layout of our vessels. Sometimes guests like to ask certain questions if it is their first time cruising with us, or they feel nervous. Our shore manager, Emma, is always available via phone or email to answer any questions they may have. Emma has even sent guests photos and videos to help inform pre-departure expectations.
Factors that help our guests’ access our vessels with ease include:
Pre-boarding and arrival
Our vessels embark and disembark from Oban Bay pontoons, an easily accessible point central to Oban.
A pre-boarding briefing is provided to the crew from the Shore Manager on any guest requiring extra assistance.
A safety briefing and detailed discussion is given to guests on arrival by the Skipper, to outline all aspects of the vessel and the cruise.
Guests are shown individually to their cabin by the crew, highlighting any areas that may affect their ability.
While onboard
Daily evening briefings are given by the Skipper and Guide, deatiling next day itineary and what to expect.
Handrails are fitted on outer decks, stairwells and in cabins.
Skippers, along with other crew members, are always on hand to make our guests stay as safe, comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Our Wildlife Guides chat to each guest to find out their interests, onshore expectations etc and find out ways they can help their enjoyment.
Going onshore
Prior to guests going ashore, the Skpper and Guide will give a short safety briefing about the landing site.
At least 2 crew members are always on hand when assisting guests on and off the tender at the vessel and onshore.
Grab rails are fitted and extra steps aboard our tenders allow for extra assistance.
Get in touch
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Emma, James and all of the Hebrides Cruises team - thank you for the most wonderful, memorable experience aboard Lucy Mary last weekend on the Hebrides Magical Mini-Cruise. We are missing it all so much already! Every single detail was so perfect, from the minute we stepped on board and were welcomed so warmly by the crew with the lovely Prosecco and canapés to the excitement of setting sail and knowing that we and our cruise companions had all begun a unique adventure together, making lifetime memories in the most tranquil, spiritual setting that would bond us all. Everything felt familiar and like home so quickly but also so far away from our day to day reality which didn’t creep in and disturb us once. We were utterly immersed in the experience and the wildlife aspect was simply phenomenal. I still can’t quite believe we actually experienced those moments. The anticipation of a ‘spot’, seeing a beastie emerge and sharing the wonder of that experience together as a group. Those are etched memories and I know how moved and elated every single person in our group was, time and time again on our trip. Having a pod of common dolphins, followed by bottle nose dolphins bow riding Lucy Mary as we journeyed towards Ardtornish was a moment we will never forget. It was other worldly and really quite emotional. The depth of knowledge and experience James has gave us the experiences we were so lucky to have, and having a wildlife guide on board is one of the most unique aspects of the cruise. James and Bella knew exactly what to look for in the waters which led to a successful spot each time - whales, dolphins, porpoises and all manner of sea birds. We had such lovely cruise companions - we all bonded and became very fond of each other quickly, with Hebrides Cruises creating the foundation for that with the quality of the experience. I hadn't appreciated just how much we would enjoy that aspect, being around people we had never met. It really is such a special part of the experience. The accommodation was so comfortable -
Andrew Wilson: 19 April 2024Hebrides Magical Mini Cruise