Truly the trip of a lifetime, a visit to the haunting and dramatic Archipelago of islands and stacs that make up St Kilda is never to be forgotten . After a sea journey through the Inner and Outer Hebrides there is always excitement and anticipation as St Kilda comes into view, often with the top of the highest sea cliffs in Britain shrouded in mist. Dolphins, Minke whales and basking sharks often accompany the vessel enroute to St Kilda and even into Village Bay itself. Our sturdy, specialised vessels and highly experienced Skippers allow a unique opportunity to cruise close to the stacs, for incredible views of thousands of sea birds nesting on the cliffs and wheeling overhead; St Kilda is home to over 200 bird species. Anchoring in sheltered Village Bay, guests go ashore on the main island of Hirta to explore the poignant history of the abandoned village and try to spot the rare St Kilda wren and St Kilda mouse. A climb up Connachair, the highest point on Hirta, provides breathtaking views over the open sea and surrounding stacs.
The choice of Outer Hebrides island stopovers on this cruise is equally awe-inspiring and may include Mingulay, Vatersay, Barra, Eriskay, the Uists, the Shiants, Harris and others, depending on wind, tide and the wishes of the guests on board. The waters of the Outer Hebrides are the best for sightings of cetaceans and our vessels are ideal for navigating close to remote island cliffs where many rare species of birds nest. With the unique wild flower machair in bloom, and stunning shell-sand beaches to walk along, shore trips are magical. There is a good chance of seeing corncrake and many other rare birds on the coastline, as well as otters and the spectacle of hundreds of seals hauled out on the beaches.
St Kilda is very remote and we have an excellent record of reaching the Archipelago. The 10-day cruise allows the Skipper to choose the best weather window to achieve an anchorage in Village Bay. The safety of guests is always paramount and any part of the sea journey is at the Skippers discretion and the final decision rests with him.
This cruise books up early but can also be booked as a private cruise charter, providing suitable dates are available
18+
