24 June 2019
We’re just back from a superb 10-night cruise aboard Elizabeth G. It’s our latest trip with Rob and his crew. With en-suite cabins now it’s even more of a luxury trip. Not that we spent much time in the cabin - instead we were generally found on the top observation deck, watching shearwaters dance across the waves, fulmars shoot past effortlessly, gannets flying in squadron-formation and panicky puffins duck beneath our wake. We’re enticed down for two reasons: bow-riding dolphins, when we hang over the bow sharing the excitement and energy of this spectacle with our fellow guests, and food: Mags was our cook preparing fabulous meals with local ingredients, including scallops hand-dived by our skipper, Rob. It was at dinner each evening that Rob would discuss the next day’s itinerary, balancing our wishes with the weather and his incredible knowledge of the most picturesque anchorages. Each day saw us exploring a new island with the help of Nigel our wildlife guide, taken ashore by Rob and Bosun Craig in the tender. And we even got to St Kilda. St Kilda is a unique place with a magical atmosphere; an atmosphere that lingers in part because of its remoteness. Rob found the weather window to allow a 2-night stay and it was here, on our trip round the stacs, that guests and crew came together on the front deck to gaze in awe at the thousands of seabirds around us. As we disembarked, a little sadly, in Oban on our last day I couldn’t help wonder how soon we’ll get the urge to return...
Catrin Lester
The whole cruise from start to finish was amazing. The crew were attentive, fun, professional, fun, good sports, fun. I could go on. We were very lucky to get two days of sunshine for St Kilda and the Shiants and our timing was impeccable. Thanks James. He remained professional and was great company at dinner. The nightly briefings showed how much thought went into planning where we were to be the next day. Lindsay was great, there was not a minute of the day when she didn't have her eye out for whales, dolphins and birds. We were richly rewarded by having two minky whales swim under our boat. What a sight. We were all a little emotional. Emma our bosun. She was an absolute delight. Hard working and lots of fun. Nothing was too much trouble for her. What a treasure. Lastly but certainly not least. Yvonne, our chef. My husband is still talking about your salmon pie! The food that was produced in your small, rocking kitchen was stunning. I wouldn't have changed a thing. I think everyone on our cruise felt the same. Cheers! Lyndy and Clyde Ronan
Lyndy Ronan: 9 July 2018St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides