One of our wonderful guests not only took the time to send in a review of their cruise, and these images, but penned a poem which we think is really lovely.
To the Hebrides Crew
Around Mull’s isles, where wild seas gleam,
You gave us more than just a dream.
Three nights afloat, the world set free,
A voyage carved in memory.
Abbey, with kindness in every glass,
Cocktails that sparkle, smiles that last.
Beds turned down with gentle care,
Hospitality beyond compare.
Chris, our skipper, steady and true,
Guiding the vessel through waters blue.
With humour and warmth in all you do,
The sea felt safer for me and you.
Pierce, with windows polished bright,
He let the ocean pour in light.
Hands on deck, a cheerful face,
A spirit of help in every space.
Indy, the whisperer of the wild,
With otters and dolphins our hearts beguiled.
Eagles soared where your passion led,
Calm and warm in every word said.
And Calumn, master of galley and flame,
Chef extraordinaire, deserving his fame.
Each dish a delight, each bake a surprise,
Food crafted with skill, both hearty and wise.
Five hearts together, one fine crew,
You gave us moments rare and true.
Forever grateful, we’ll always recall,
The joy you brought, thank you all.
We hope to join you again in the future.
Best wishes
Jane, Rob, Fred, Alfie, Amelia, Hugo and Annie xxx
Fabulous cruise with first class crew. Jake our Captain got us safely to each destination, amending the itinerary as weather conditions changed. We nevertheless got everywhere we’d been promised and got to enjoy the wildlife to the max. Charlie, our cook supreme, fed us incredibly well and Jasmin, our steward, ensured we were so well looked after we didn’t want the cruise to finish. They also managed a birthday surprise for me, which was wonderful. Special mention to Lynsey, our guide, who managed to spot two humpback whales from a good few miles away, one of which hadn’t previously been seen in Scottish waters. We were able to spend a good while with them without ever feeling we were disturbing them. We also saw Harbour porpoise, common dolphins, seals, White-tailed eagles, an otter, a minke whale, a cuckoo, sea-birds galore (gannets, puffins, guillemots, razor-bills, fulmars to name a few) and heard the allusive Corn crake. The scenery was also fantastic. Incredibly dramatic as you’d expect and again Lynsey with her geology background was able to give further information. I had a great time with the other cruise guests who all helped make the cruise such an enjoyable holiday experience. My favourite moment was watching a pod of common dolphins speed towards the Emma Jane; swimming, jumping, tail slapping alongside and interacting with us before heading off. It was chucking with rain, but nobody cared, it was absolutely magical.
Jackie Phelpstead: 21 June 2025Skye, the Small Isles and the Shiants