4 July 2025
It's difficult to add to Ellen's comments about this cruise, all of which we agree with, but we'll try. Firstly, we would like to echo her comments about the exceptional crew - all four of them combined to make this trip unforgettable. To get to St Kilda on our first attempt was amazing and we forgive Jake for weighing anchor at 4.30 in the morning to get us there. The fact that it was a misty, grey day just added to the atmosphere. Now, what didn't Ellen mention? Fantastic beach lunch/barbecue on Vatersay, the hot tub on board - with a dram!, the magical cave on the Shiants and the not quite so magical cave on Eigg, unbelievable numbers of birds on both St Kilda and the Shiants, 50 dolphins bow riding - wow!, fantastic seafood (did I mention that I caught some mackerel? Thanks, Jake) As Ruth said when we got back to Oban - "The only thing that would have made it more memorable would have been if Lauren had spotted a giraffe for us" Thank you James, Emma and the crew of the good ship Emma Jane.
Iain and Ruth Moody
This is my third trip with Hebrides cruises and it's like meeting up with old friends every time. The crew may change, but the warmth, care and incredible service remains the same with nothing being too much trouble and the effort made to give everyone a good experience is a hallmark of the company. The onshore trips allow for individual choices in how one wants to spend the time ashore while always having the option of a guide who is familiar with the area and advice on things worth seeing . The welcome back with a glass of fizz and home( or should it be boat?)baked cakes is lovely. And talking about food, I have rarely eaten so well on holiday, with Peter in the kitchen producing continually exciting and varied but always delicious meals. Pauline kept everything in sparkling order and James and Lynsey ensured we didn't miss a thing whether it be a sighting of eagles, seals or porpoises - a particular highlight was Lunga and time spent with the puffins! As a single traveller, I always feel so at home and comfortable with my fellow travellers that I find it hard to imagine my year without a trip around the Isles - roll on No. 4!
Anne Barcellos: 4 May 2019Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles