The Monach Islands lie approximately 4 miles west of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides. 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.
The crew were fantastic in every respect – the skippers Chris and Lewis always happy to welcome guests to the wheelhouse and patiently explain charts and instruments; Lynsey’s knowledge and eagle-eyes ensured we didn’t miss anything either on shore or at sea, and her helpful consideration to us (as the oldest guests!) when climbing in or out of the RIB was very much appreciated! Jaya prepared the most delicious meals every day - and her fresh-baked cakes and biscuits were always appreciated at afternoon tea. Last but not least, Sophia – always with a beaming smile, making sure the guests wanted for nothing, turning her hand to whatever was required – and ensuring the dining table looked picture-perfect, her napkin folding was a work of art! For all these reasons, we are hoping to book again soon – but this time for 10 days, the 6 nights on board Emma Jane went by all too fast! Although ours was a rather late booking, it was a simple process, all our enquiries were answered promptly by Emma. We were informed well in advance of all arrangements for boarding and disembarking – and everything went according to plan. Pre boarding, the crew introduced themselves on the dock and swiftly transported our baggage to the boat. It was a pleasure to meet Emma as we boarded the boat, by which time all our baggage was already in our cabin. On disembarking, everything went like clockwork: by the time we’d all said our farewells, our baggage was on the dockside waiting for us to collect.
Gill Cawthrone: 13 April 2024Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles