We are pleased to report that we have retained our Green Tourism Gold Award status for the third consecutive year at very high pass rates in all categories.
We have introduced new green initiatives over the past year which have ensured that we’ve been able to maintain the highest ratings of all aspects relating to our sustainability. We are especially proud of the increase of pass rates in our goals for the “planet” category. As a cruise business, this category is our biggest challenge, but we are definitely making a big difference because of finding innovate ways of addressing this important area. Our report identified that:
Energy improved from 88% to 90%
Water improved from 83% to 93%
Waste improved from 70% to 78%
Carbon improved from 68% to 73%
We encourage our guests to actively participate in our environmental protection efforts by indicating how they can support the environment while visiting the area and on board our cruises. We achieved a 98% rating under the “destination” criteria in providing information to guests on how they can reduce the impact of their visit and respect the cultural heritage of the destination.
Our Green Initiative Crew Member, Lynsey has provided us with her checklist on areas where she feels we can still improve on, while all our crews continuously look for new and innovative ways to improve and maintain our green credentials. These new initiatives include installing lithium batteries with a bluetooth monitoring system which will monitor each battery and its capacity levels. We will also install a water maker on Elizabeth G and a new A+ energy rated oven aboard Emma Jane. Each year, our new identified actions are an investment in our aim to be a truly sustainable tourism company.
Andrea Nicholas, CEO Green Tourism said: “Hebrides Cruises has done a fantastic job in retaining their Gold Green Tourism award and improving their overall score. The team has done an excellent job in maintaining and improving their efforts towards sustainable tourism and engaging guests in the company's green commitment.”
I was excited about coming on the three night cruise on the Lucy Mary after being recommended by a friend and studying the website, which explained everything clearly and interestingly. The reality was even better than my already-high expectations. I wanted to see eagles and we saw both white-tailed and golden eagles very clearly, as well as puffins and a whole selection of other sea and land birds, a couple of seals - and the most amazing, colourful, quite beautiful giant jellyfish that swam under the boat. Dave the wildlife man was on deck before breakfast scanning for creatures to show us and tell us about, and stayed there throughout the day, when we sere at sea, until dusk. His deep knowledge and infectious enthusiasm were inspiring. Rob the skipper was skilful, Will the bosun busy and helpful, Poppy the steward was welcoming and efficient and our chef was creative and accomplished (the food was truly delicious and I'm going to replicate a couple of the dishes at home). We became good friends with the other passengers and enjoyed their company. So. It was a life-enhancing experience and sitting here at the computer back in London, I still have the sight, smell and taste of the sea in my memory to remind me. Thank you.
Maggy Park: 29 May 2025Hebrides Magical Mini Cruise