25 July 2022
Wow, what a holiday - it was absolutely fantastic. The crew, fellow passengers and wildlife did not let us down and the weather was particularly kind to us (we even got a tan)! The islands we visited, including Eriskay, Taransay, Monach, Rum, Canna etc were unforgettable, but to reach the pinnacle of the enigmatic islands, St Kilda, was purely magical. The history of this island is unique and only when you get up close can you bring the stories to life - it is really a must-see destination. Personal thanks to Emma, Colin, Richie, Will, Michelle and Ashleigh, both on and offshore cannot be underestimated - all were simply brilliant and we appreciate all they did for us. If you are thinking of a wildlife adventure in comfy surroundings with some top-notch expertise and restaurant-quality food, then look no further than Hebrides Cruises. We hope to come back in the not-too-distant future! Thank you all again for making the trip such a memorable one, never to be forgotten. PS thanks also to Peter May, author, who also helped us to understand the history of the islands (albeit within fictional settings) - his books of the area are well worth a read.
John Thompson / Janette Hastings
From start to finish, our trip was an experience that will remain a lifetime memory. From the welcome aboard by the fantastic crew, through the wildlife encounters around the Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides, to the absolutely fabulous cuisine and beautiful dinner table decorations which changed each day - we had a spectacular time. Skipper Chris ensured our individual needs were catered for aboard the Lucy Mary and during our short trips ashore. Nature guide Indy displayed an amazingly wide knowledge of the wildlife which we encountered and worked with Chris to ensure our experience was wholly memorable. While aboard, Olly, Abby and Calum ensured our trip was totally comfortable and relaxing - quite how Chef Calum managed to create such a tasty and varied menu in the small galley, we just have no idea. Our favourite dish was the rolled stuffed sole on a bed of risotto! The daily routine worked like clockwork, with beds made up and turned down as if by magic - there was even a bedtime chocolate treat left on our pillow each night! Of course our whole experience was made all the more special by the array of wildlife which we saw - there was even a White-tailed Sea Eagle which bade us farewell on our last morning as we left the calm of our overnight mooring on Loch Spelve! To our crew and Hebrides Cruises, thank you. We can't recommend you more highly.
Iain & Sue McNeil: 18 August 2025The Small Isles and sea lochs: Wildlife havens