22 August 2025
An expedition cruise searching for giants, what a fabulous idea for a trip and it delivered! Over eleven days with some early mornings and late evenings we sailed to the edge of the Continental Shelf, around the Butt of Lewis, zig zagged across the Northern Minch then down to the east of Skye under the bridge around Ardnamurchan and back to Oban via Tobermory and the Sound of Mull. It was an absolute privilege to watch, in their environment, the frenzied feeding of minkes, dolphins, gannets and various other sea birds on a variety of differing sea states. All made possible by the excellent and dedicated skippering of James and the ever vigilant spotting of Connor assisted by the equally sharp eyed Lindsay. The reason for OUR frenzied feeding was the delicious top quality food prepared by Charlie and served by Lindsay. A fabulous crew who tended to our every need. We did spend a little time on land, with fascinating walks around islands and headlands led by the hugely knowledgeable Conor who would suddenly dive off into the woods and reappear with a rare fungi or stop at a tree trunk or stone wall and introduce us to a whole new world of lichens and mosses. This was our tenth year with Hebrides Cruises on Elizabeth G and each one has been superb in it’s own way. We have already booked for 2026 and are now looking at 2027.
Jill and Dave Jones
I was excited about coming on the three night cruise on the Lucy Mary after being recommended by a friend and studying the website, which explained everything clearly and interestingly. The reality was even better than my already-high expectations. I wanted to see eagles and we saw both white-tailed and golden eagles very clearly, as well as puffins and a whole selection of other sea and land birds, a couple of seals - and the most amazing, colourful, quite beautiful giant jellyfish that swam under the boat. Dave the wildlife man was on deck before breakfast scanning for creatures to show us and tell us about, and stayed there throughout the day, when we sere at sea, until dusk. His deep knowledge and infectious enthusiasm were inspiring. Rob the skipper was skilful, Will the bosun busy and helpful, Poppy the steward was welcoming and efficient and our chef was creative and accomplished (the food was truly delicious and I'm going to replicate a couple of the dishes at home). We became good friends with the other passengers and enjoyed their company. So. It was a life-enhancing experience and sitting here at the computer back in London, I still have the sight, smell and taste of the sea in my memory to remind me. Thank you.
Maggy Park: 29 May 2025Hebrides Magical Mini Cruise