15 August 2024
The whole experience was amazing from start to finish, and that’s even though we never managed to reach the Outer Hebrides, like we'd been hoping (too much wind/swell in the Minch, thanks to hurricane remnants from across the Atlantic, so the Captain advised we turn back to Skye). We chartered the Emma Jane for 8 days, and there were three generations of us from 11 to 65 (including two kids). Most amazing was Chef Louis, who did the impossible, and served food to suit us all, despite our varied and complicated dietary issues. (Very, very tasty food too.) He was ably assisted by Jenny, our Steward, who kept everything running smoothly. And now everyone misses having their breakfast toast served to them in a Harris Tweed toast cosy. The scenery and wildlife were just as amazing, ably interpreted by our naturalist guide Lynsey. We had several pods of dolphins come surf the bow wave, much to everyone’s delight. As well as eagles and many other bird and mammal sightings, as well as rainbows, castles, perfect beachcombing beaches, and so much more. Lynsey led our rambles ashore, with options for the less energetic among us to still enjoy a stroll while those with younger knees tackled the hills. James, our captain, did a fine job of avoiding the worst of the swells, and he consulted with us each step of the way, so even though we were disappointed not to get to Lewis/Harris, we knew it was for the best. James and Lynsey also made for excellent hosts at dinner. This trip was to celebrate our 30th anniversary, and James managed to surprise us by having his daughter pipe in our cake while we were docked in Tobermory, in fine Scottish style. I’ll keep overusing the word “amazing” as it’s the only word which just about manages to capture the experience. Highly recommended. If you are thinking about doing a Hebrides cruise, do it, and do it with these people. You will not be disappointed. Thank you James, Lynsey, Jenny, and Louis; you made our trip extraordinary. Comments from other family members: Awesome, highly recommended. So friendly, and nice people, incredibly accommodating (especially Louis), extra awesome. Emma Jane is the best! When can we go again? I loved everything about the trip.
Barry Twycross
Thank you for another brilliant cruise. We visited some lovely small islands during this trip and saw a lot of wildlife including minke whales, loads of dolphins including 3 separate groups bow riding with us and harbour porpoises plus otters, sea eagles and golden eagles. Our guide Conor was brilliant spotting wildlife and his plant knowledge matched any encyclopedia as he gave us an overview on them all along with the geology of the region. Craig, our Bosun, was really attentive with looking after us all, Sian's meals were always a treat whilst keeping within the several dietary requirements onboard and Chris, our Skipper, took us to some wonderful places and always found a beautiful anchorage for us each night. Onshore Emma sorted out all of the administration and arrangements quickly and kept us up to date with the trip details. Nothing was too much for her as she also helped out with a car transfer suggestion when the usual travel plans were difficult due to flight changes. Another perfect trip thank you to you all....
Melanie Rogers: 11 September 2021Skye and the Small Isles: Hebridean horizons