13 May 2024
Last year was our first, long awaited trip on Emma Jane. It was an amazing experience, over and above anything we could have hoped for. So on our return we booked this years cruise AND 2025. As skipper James said ‘ you need to do these things while still vertical’! Emma Jane is a beautiful, comfortable vessel to travel on from the well thought out cabins, comfy sofas and books in the salon and multiple outside viewing areas to look out for all the wildlife and scenery. Skipper Charlie found wonderful anchorages, dramatic scenery and safe clean places for the hardy swimmers. Arriving at the Shiants around the north of the islands was a real highlight. This approach allowed us to see the huge and dramatic basalt pillars, that dwarf those at Fingals Cave. Later, with perfect conditions, Charlie and Will ( Guide) took us on the rib to see the formations, caves and birds at really close quarters. Amazing! Will sort out the wildlife at sea and on land with great success. Highlights include both common and bottlenose nose dolphins who came to ride the bow wave. A lovely view of Minke whale. 3 white tailed eagles together on the eastern shore of Raasay and 8 in the sky as we sailed away from The Shiants. Will led us safely on shore trips that were adapted to the ability and wishes of the guests. This includes a dramatic hike up to Hallaig, the abandoned settlement on Raasay. Stunning views in all directions and a golden eagle viewed from above. Charlie (chef, not the shipper!) cheerfully cooked us up 3 lovely meals a day as well of cake for tea, using a great deal of local produce. I loved the fish dishes. She was ably assisted by equally smiley Jasmine, who looked after us, served us meals, made drinks and kept everything spotlessly clean and tidy. It felt as if the whole crew worked together as a well oiled team. I’ve seen it written before on reviews before, but if you are considering a trip with Hebrides Cruises - book it. Will and Sarah
Will and Sarah
We went to St Kilda, it involved 3 passages. Rob did his best for us both going out and the first leg back for what must have been a very tiring day for him ending 0100. St Kilda was very interesting. Generally, we were looked after very well indeed by all four crew members who showed amazing flexibility in being quite happy to take on any job that needed doing. Rob must be a very good leader I think! The food was superb, wildlife commentaries so conscientiously delivered, and Craig particularly demonstrated such thoughtfulness and patience. I did so much too enjoy chatting to Rob in the wheelhouse about diving generally and of course the SBS and Royal Marines. So I think you and Rob, Emma, run a brilliant cruise. What a pity you are so far from Salisbury Best wishes, Rupert
Rupert van der Horst: 20 August 2022Private Charter 8 Nights