At Hebrides Cruises, we believe that every voyage should contribute to the conservation of the Scottish seas. By partnering with leading scientific and environmental organisations, we turn our cruises into vital data gathering missions, helping to safeguard Hebridean wildlife for future generations.

1. Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust (HWDT)

Pioneering Citizen Science Together We are proud Corporate Partners of the HWDT. For years, we have worked side by side to monitor the 24 species of cetaceans found in our waters.

• Whale Track App: We were instrumental in the early testing and development of the Whale Track app. Today, our Wildlife Guides and guests use it on every cruise to log sightings in real-time.

• Effort based data: By recording exactly where we sail and what we see, we provide "effort based" data that helps scientists understand population trends and habitat health.

• Photo Identification: Our guests often capture the "fingerprints" of the sea unique nicks and scars on fins that help HWDT track famous individuals like 'John Coe' the Orca or 'Knobble' the Minke Whale.

2. WiSe Scheme (Wildlife Safe)

The Gold Standard of Responsible Watching We don't just watch wildlife; we respect it. As a WiSe Accredited operator, our crews are trained to the highest standards of marine etiquette.

• Minimal disturbance: We follow strict codes of conduct to ensure our presence never stresses or disrupts the natural behaviour of whales, seals, or nesting birds.

• Master level expertise: Our owner, Rob Barlow, holds the Master WiSe Accreditation, the highest accolade for responsible wildlife watching in the UK.

3. Trees for Life

A forest for the future Our commitment to the environment extends from the deep sea to the Highland mountains. For every guest who joins us on a cruise, we contribute to our dedicated "Hebrides Cruises Grove" through Trees for Life.

• Rewilding the Highlands: This initiative helps restore the ancient Caledonian Forest, offsetting carbon and creating habitats for red squirrels, pine martens, and golden eagles.

4. Green Tourism

Gold Standard Sustainability We are honoured to hold the Green Tourism Gold Award. This partnership holds us accountable for everything from our fuel efficiency and "zero waste" policies to our commitment to sourcing 100% of our produce from local Scottish suppliers.

5. Sea Change Wine

Turning the tide on plastic pollution Our commitment to the sea extends to the glasses we raise at dinner. We have partnered with Sea Change, an eco-conscious wine brand whose mission is to protect our oceans from the devastating impact of plastic pollution.

• Plastic Free Packaging: Unlike traditional bottles, Sea Change has removed the unnecessary plastic wrap (the capsule) around the cork and uses natural, biodegradable closures. Even the labels are made from 15% recycled grape waste and FSC certified paper.

• Direct Funding: For every bottle of Sea Change wine or Prosecco we serve on board, a donation is made to marine conservation charities like Ocean Generation and Sea Changers UK.

• Awareness on Every Label: Each hand drawn label features a marine animal with plastic hidden inside, a subtle but powerful reminder of why we must protect the fragile ecosystems of the Hebrides.

Research spotlight: "In Search of Giants"

We also run specialized Research Expeditions in collaboration with marine scientists like Dr. Conor Ryan. These cruises head to the former whaling grounds west of the Hebrides to document the inspiring recovery of Humpback and Fin whales turning our guests into true explorers and contributors to modern science.