Review : The Small Isles and sea lochs: Wildlife havens

Hi Emma - I am sure the other members of our party will drop you a line as I am equally sure I speak for us all today.  I cannot thank you enough for organising our trip the other week. In truth all of us had some mild 'trepidations' about what it would be like but I can say that we had a marvellous time.  I want to be specific here. Our skipper, Charlie, was a revelation and we owe him a great deal for making our trip so exciting and enjoyable. He exemplifies a 'duty of care'; put all of our minds at rest when we concerned about the weather and adapted his plans to ensure we had the best of times. He ran a great crew and we all felt confident and secure in his leadership. He was also great company and nothing was ever too much. I told him that you have our details here and if he is ever in Merseyside he should contact us. Please pass my details should he ever request.  The guide, Lindsay was first class. Knowledgeable, personable and patient with ' elderly knees' she made a great contribution to our trip. We all loved her guided tours of the islands, her knowledge of the wildlife and her choice of the best routes for the conditions.  The evening briefing with her and Charlie, reflecting on the day and discussing prospects for the the following day were really enjoyable. Made you feel you were part of something..we all agreed.  I have to mention Charlie the cook.  Charlie's food was first class. We all agreed that it was rare, and we are well travelled, to have that quality food so consistently. Please thank her. And last but NOT least the 'human dynamo' Sofia. She described her role a the stewardess which we all felt was an understatement. In truth we were constantly amazed at how efficient she was in everything she did. Her dinner table settings, her service and her engaging manner were a delight. A first class employee in my view.  They were a great crew and exceptionally well lead.