8 June 2019
We were so pleased with the charter booking from the initial emails inquiring about dates available to the last minute questions and timely responses as we prepared to head to Scotland. Emma is professional, kind, and prompt in responding by email. We appreciate good customer service and yours is excellent. Since this was our second cruise with Skipper James and the Emma Jane, we knew what to expect about anchorages and visiting the islands. However, this cruise exceeded any expectations we had. We enjoyed returning to some islands we had previously visited and seeing new places. We continue to be overwhelmed by our visit to St. Kilda (thank you, Skipper James!) and seeing the many, many species and numbers of birds throughout the cruise that were not around in these numbers in September 2017. James knows much about all aspects of the Hebrides; if he doesn’t know an answer, he says that he doesn’t know. I like that. Will was knowledgeable about cetaceans, birds, plants, and extremely helpful to those of us who decided to take some of the walks that included narrow and muddy trails with steep inclines. He was available to offer a hand or arm to steady us as we hiked up and down the hills. Anchoring in protected areas overnight is an extraordinary experience—the quiet, the skies, the gentle rocking of the vessel. All ten of us on this charter live on bodies of water—bays, lakes, ocean. Anchoring in coves next to small villages or near an unpopulated island is special. The cruise was extra special. We were made to feel welcomed back and our friends from New Hampshire were thrilled with their experiences seeing the Hebrides and the wildlife, scenery, remoteness, and the comfort of the Emma Jane.
Angela & David Hiley
Our first but not last cruise , much delayed due to COVID but we got there in the end! A total “ wow” from start to finish , from the moment we boarded we knew that this was going to be special. As the cruise progressed out from Oban in the sun , with some fizz and cake the scene was set. Having such a knowledgeable crew was great , we felt in very safe hands so for small boat novices this was a great plus. Then , the wildlife, scenery , anticipation , meals and great company just made it perfect. Even the odd wet day didn’t detract, we managed to land on all the Islands, saw the most spectacular birdlife at The Shiants, a Minke “ lunge” feeding on the way, White Tailed Eagles , Dolphins , Seals and even the very rare Jennifer Saunders creature! Nothing was too much for the crew, they looked after us beautifully, with great patience ..we ask lots of questions..a great group of people. Thanks so much for making this such a memorable experience , we have already booked for next year...or as Skipper James said..” Do it whilst you are still vertical”! Will and Sarah Walker-Smith
Will and Sarah Walker-Smith: 6 May 2023Skye, the Small Isles and the Shiants