The Monach Islands lie approximately 4 miles west of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides. Several of our 2017 cruises visit The Monach Isles, for more information visit our cruise calendar here> or get in touch with Emma. The Monach Islands are a lovely set of islands that have it all; remoteness, the “machair” (coastal land covered in many wild flowers) and stunning beaches. This is the perfect place for sunsets as it is open to the west from nearly every aspect. The extensive sand dunes are perfect for beach landings by tender and the fairly flat landscape makes easy walking, but with breathtaking views.
There are sheltered anchorages on the west and east side of the three main islands, Ceann Ear, Ceann Iar and Shivinish. These islands are all linked at low tide with white sandy beaches and turquoise blue sea surrounding them; an idyllic landscape.
A natural paradise
The Monach Islands are a National Nature Reserve and home to one of the biggest colonies of grey seals in the world. The also support one of the largest single black guillemot colonies in the UK. Over 100 bird species have been recorded on the islands of which 31 are known to nest. Unusually, the dunes are the chosen nesting site of fulmar, which would normally prefer high rocky ledges
Fascinating History
A poignant piece of history relates to the grave of a 1st world war submariner Otto W Schatt who was found washed up on a beach and buried on the islands on 5th March 1918. The grave is still visited every few years by family members. An interesting small museum is in one of the restored houses, where you can find a menu for ‘Shag Soup’ a favourite for bygone inhabitants describing it as a favourite dish.
Well! Where does one start to describe such a phenomenal adventure. As a couple of old folk, well into their eighties, with one of us disabled and only recently diagnosed with dementia. You may wonder what on earth were we doing, taking on a small vessel wild life cruise into the seas around the Hebrides. An act of Faith, maybe. Fear not! This is no ordinary “cruise company”. Read on, this is something else. From the very onset, when first contacting Emma, (and before realising we had a dementia situation) , we were treated with immense respect, given prompt very sincere answers to all our queries and immediately realised we were dealing with a very genuine company and warm people. We could do this! So it proved to be. All the guidance and joining information was detailed, accurate and very helpful. On arrival at North Pier, Oban, prior to boarding, we were met by the most friendly of people who promptly took our luggage and conveyed it to our boat, LucyMary. And there she was! The most handsome of vessels, gleaming and awaiting her guests, whilst laid alongside the pontoons. We felt like royalty. At the foot of the companionway stood owner Rob, waiting to greet his guests. No, not captain, skipper, or the like, simply Rob. The head of what was for the duration, a close knit group of guests and crew who blended together seamlessly into one very happy family the whole trip. The crew of four were simply brilliant. Starting with Rob, of course. Then in no particular order - Indie, our extraordinary and knowledgeable naturalist and wild life expert. Abbie, delightful, ever accommodating stewardess, who looked after everyone with continuous attention. Serving meals, making drinks, tidying cabins, fetching and carrying. Then , the chef! Perry. Wow, what he produced in the galley was exquisite. But, it didn’t stop there. All of the crew joined in where appropriate with any other duties too.
Mike & Margaret Knighton: 18 September 2023The Small Isles and sea lochs: Wildlife havens