31 August 2024
We had a wonderful week, what a terrific way to see more of our beautiful country. We are so pleased we decided to cruise with Hebrides Cruises. With Rob’s expert knowledge, we were delighted to be able to visit all of the small isles with the added bonus of the Cairns of Coll, Coll and Tobermory. Great to have Bella to guide our walks which were well pitched at our abilities. Les’s mobility is a bit restricted but with Rob and Bella’s help, and he felt very safe in transferring to and from the tender, which was very much appreciated. This allowed him to go ashore with confidence. Everything we could have hoped for – comfortable cabin, extremely well appointed public areasand plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the scenery. The hospitality of all the crew was exceptional, making for a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere from the minute we stepped on board. Nicole’s food was excellent, a great and delicious variety of meals which made every meal time a pleasure. And terrific cakes! Abbie as steward seemed to be everywhere at once – serving food, looking after the bar, servicing the rooms and working on deck with Bella. With Rob and Bella, all in all a great team.
Karen Ness
The cruise was excellent. St Kilda is breath taking for its geology, bird life and mysterious historic buildings. Gill and I quite spontaneously both compared its haunting atmosphere with Machu Picchu. Rob the captain took us as close as possible to some wonderful bird covered cliffs, stacks and caves and homed in on bird flocks, seals, minke whales, dolphins, otters and other wildlife sights whenever he glimpsed them. We enjoyed walking on Hirta and the other islands where we saw so many wildflowers. We were lucky to see the St Kilda mouse and wren although TV enthusiasts might consider the Balamory cat more important. I was surprised to learn that the crew of four had not all worked together many times as they formed such a well co-ordinated team. All the passengers got along well. Rob the captain seemed to know the islands in detail and is obviously a man of many accomplishments but still seemed happy to help serve meals. Sian, the lady chef, produced very fine meals and evening dinners were a culinary and social joy. Craig seemed to be everywhere helping and Zoe the naturalist never stopped looking for wildlife and pointing it out from the boat and when she guided us on the islands. We are both somewhat stiff jointed but with a little help we had no trouble with beach landings. We slept in one of the two smaller cabins. There was no space to spare but we quickly made ourselves at home and were very comfortable. The little wet room worked well. We can happily recommend Hebrides Cruises to anybody. Thanks to all you all.
Gill & Paul Gillians: 5 July 2021St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides