We really appreciate when guests take the time to give us detailed feedback. Our first cruise of the season to the Isle of Mull did not get the best of weather but hopefully this review from our guest Felicity Lovell gives an insight that the weather is not essential to a great cruise experience. We are very proud of our crew and pleased that having a wildlife guide aboard meant guests spotted many species – the Tawny Owl is a first for us.
“The scenery was stunning, the guide was wonderful, she accompanied us on all tours she was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable as was the captain Rob and first mate Sarah. We were a little unfortunate with the weather and a few of the other guests with poorer sea legs that meant we were unable to get to a few of the islands that we had hoped for. However we thoroughly enjoyed all the places we did see and we learnt so much about the area, the flora and the fauna it has whetted our appetite for a further trip.
We had a cosy cabin which was very comfortable, our room was lovely and warm even on the coldest nights. The boat was beautifully clean, the dining room was set up to encourage group camaraderie which worked very well. Occasionally we lost the hot water however it was the first trip of the season and the odd glitch is always to be expected. The boat and facilities were kept spotless by the hard work of the cabin crew throughout the trip.
The food was absolutely excellent. Plentiful, delicious, healthy and varied with local interest. All of the cabin crew could not have been more helpful in making our stay very enjoyable. The captain even dived for fresh scallops which we had for supper. They were stunning, the best we had ever eaten. We also had home cooked cake at tea time which was delicious.
Having the guide was a great addition, and the intimacy of the group and crew was also a real boon. Having the weather to get to some of the other islands would have been great but no-one can control that! Overall it was a really great trip which we will remember always”
Last year was our first, long awaited trip on Emma Jane. It was an amazing experience, over and above anything we could have hoped for. So on our return we booked this years cruise AND 2025. As skipper James said ‘ you need to do these things while still vertical’! Emma Jane is a beautiful, comfortable vessel to travel on from the well thought out cabins, comfy sofas and books in the salon and multiple outside viewing areas to look out for all the wildlife and scenery. Skipper Charlie found wonderful anchorages, dramatic scenery and safe clean places for the hardy swimmers. Arriving at the Shiants around the north of the islands was a real highlight. This approach allowed us to see the huge and dramatic basalt pillars, that dwarf those at Fingals Cave. Later, with perfect conditions, Charlie and Will ( Guide) took us on the rib to see the formations, caves and birds at really close quarters. Amazing! Will sort out the wildlife at sea and on land with great success. Highlights include both common and bottlenose nose dolphins who came to ride the bow wave. A lovely view of Minke whale. 3 white tailed eagles together on the eastern shore of Raasay and 8 in the sky as we sailed away from The Shiants. Will led us safely on shore trips that were adapted to the ability and wishes of the guests. This includes a dramatic hike up to Hallaig, the abandoned settlement on Raasay. Stunning views in all directions and a golden eagle viewed from above. Charlie (chef, not the shipper!) cheerfully cooked us up 3 lovely meals a day as well of cake for tea, using a great deal of local produce. I loved the fish dishes. She was ably assisted by equally smiley Jasmine, who looked after us, served us meals, made drinks and kept everything spotlessly clean and tidy. It felt as if the whole crew worked together as a well oiled team. I’ve seen it written before on reviews before, but if you are considering a trip with Hebrides Cruises - book it. Will and Sarah
Will and Sarah: 13 May 2024Far-flung islands: Shiants & the Summer Isles