Guests on many of our 2015 cruises will be invited to take part in important research on the distribution of the larger marine animals which we encounter on our voyages throughout the Hebrides. This is possible because we are delighted that Vivi Bolin will be coming on board as onboard and onshore Guide for our guests. Vivi is a biologist with a masters degree in conservation biology and a personal passion for seabirds and cetaceans. She is expert in spotting and identifying whales and dolphins.
Cetaceans, seals and basking sharks as well as sunfish sightings will be recorded using Logger, software used by scientists across the world. Vivi will record sightings, and guests will also have the unique opportunity to get involved if they wish. The data recorded during the cruises will be shared with the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust to feed into important scientific analysis. Passengers with SLR cameras will also be encouraged to take photographs of dorsal fins; good quality shots are very valuable to scientists as the pictures can be used to track individual whales and dolphins.
Vivi worked for the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and BirdWatch Ireland and moved to Mull to work for the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. Vivi is from Finland and currently living on the Isle of Mull.
Hi Emma, Roger and Viv, Kate and I really enjoyed the cruise despite the weather challenges and despite only briefly reaching the Outer Hebrides! We would particularly like to record our appreciation of all the work and help from the crew . Charlie , Lynsey, Jennie and Issie were all an absolute delight to sail with and they made a really great team. I should also add we did have very entertaining fellow passengers who together with the crew contributed to a memorable holiday. Please pass on our sincerest thanks to the crew. Kind regards, Ian
I Darling: 3 August 2024Far-flung islands: Mingulay to the Shiants