Our Green Initiative Officer, Lynsey Bland, has just completed the new Biosecurity Accreditation Scheme for commercial boat operators around Scotland 'The Predator Free Certification: better boating for seabirds'.
Hebrides Cruises is very aware of the need to protect our seabird islands from invasive species, such as rats and mice, as we cruise these islands. But it’s important not to be complacent and we will introduce simple measures provided by attending the course, to ensure we have no stowaways on board . These include two kinds of surveillance tool, namely chew card and wax blocks which are both used to record rodent tooth marks. We will check these on a regular basis and invite guests to take part while chatting about the importance of protecting our seabirds. Putting rope guards on throw ropes prevents any rodent climbing aboard and there is even a conservation detection dog who can come aboard to reassure us that our vessels are free of any invasive species.
The greatest terrestrial threat our seabirds face is invasive predators such as rats, mice, stoats, hedgehogs and feral cats which will eat both seabird eggs and chicks. The good news is that this threat is something we can take action with, so the more we ensure prevention and spread the word to boat operators and owners to get involved, the better.
One of the best examples of black rat eradication is The Shiant Islands in The Minch. Following a 3 year eradication program to remove black rats, the islands were declared rat-free in 2018 with breeding storm petrels and a chick recorded for the first time on the islands that year. These simple measures taken by boat owners will ensure invasive species never return to the Shiants or are introduced to any of our precious seabird colonies
I recently had the pleasure of embarking on an unforgettable cruise to the Hebrides Cruises ( Skye, Small Islands,and the Shiants, in Scotland ( May 13-21, 2023), and I must say it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. The 8-day journey was filled with breathtaking scenery, fascinating insights, and a genuine sense of camaraderie among the 8 participants and 4 staff members on board. One of the highlights of this cruise was undoubtedly the exceptional staff. From the knowledgeable and enthusiastic naturalist to the experienced skipper, each member of the team showcased a remarkable dedication to our well-being and enjoyment throughout the trip. The naturalist's expertise and passion for the islands were evident in every interaction, making each wildlife sighting and nature excursion a truly enriching experience. The skipper's lifelong knowledge of the islands and the sea, along with his emphasis on safety, instilled a sense of confidence and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Hebrides. Not to be forgotten is the cook, whose culinary skills transformed each meal into a delightful gastronomic experience. Not only were the dishes healthy and delicious, but they were also beautifully presented, showcasing the cook's artistic talents. Finally, and not any less significant, was the boat swain's excellent customer service, always attentive to our needs and ensuring our comfort throughout the journey. His prompt response to any request with a touch of his humor, further added to the overall exceptional service on board. What set this cruise apart was the intimate atmosphere created by the small group size and the daily rituals shared among the participants. The shared adventures and delicious meals fostered a sense of closeness and allowed for meaningful connections to be formed. We gathered each day to recount our sightings of birds and sea life, engaging in storytelling and discussion. This combination of shared experiences and diverse perspectives, with travelers from different
Alison Kinsey: 13 May 2023Skye, the Small Isles and the Shiants