The MacNeils of Barra – descendants of Irish Royalty or raiding Vikings?
One of the delights of our cruises is mingling with the local population when we happen to meet them. The history of the people who populate the islands we visit is invariably fascinating and they are justly proud of their roots and ancestry. Barra has a population of 1,000 and the main name is MacNeil. There are of course MacNeils all over the world who are also proud of their heritage
For centuries the MacNeil clan of Barra have proudly claimed to be descendants of Ireland's "greatest" King, Niall of the Nine Hostages who emigrated to Scotland in the 11th century.
But a check on hundreds of modern day MacNeils has revealed their roots actually lie with the Vikings and not the Irish. DNA swabs taken from Barra MacNeils as far away as Canada and Australia have proved that the blood of fierce Norse raiders runs through their veins. The finding comes from the MacNeil Surname Y-DNA project run by genealogists Vincent MacNeil and Alex Buchanan.
Clansmen from all over the world including Scotland, the US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia have provided DNA samples but the DNA project has not found a single match to the O’Neills of Ireland.
Genealogist Vincent MacNeil, from Nova Scotia, Canada says the findings suggest the Barra MacNeils are probably of Norse descent. The clan was infamous throughout Scotland and beyond for its Viking-style pirating and great seamanship. MacNeils raided the seas from their base at Kisimul Castle in Birlinn vessels - boats similar to the Viking longships.
Why not find out for yourself on our Far Flung Islands cruise when we call in at Kisimul Castle in Castlebay seat of the Chiefs of Clan Macneil?
We had an amazing week on the Elizabeth G following the sun. Thanks to our skilled skipper Chris who would change plans and re-route us at a moments notice to ensure that we got the best out of our time on board and ashore. Lauren our guide was continually on hand spotting wildlife, educating us and instructing the Skipper to turn the boat on a sixpence, if required, to ensure everyone had the best view. We were rewarded with white tailed sea eagles, porpoise, common dolphin and numerous sea birds including puffin. Whilst ashore we saw otters, a heronry and red deer parading on the peaks. Craig our amusing steward demonstrated his artistry each evening with the menu board and serviette folding. He looked after our every need, wearing many different hats and jackets throughout the day to ensure the Elizabeth G was safe, clean and comfortable for guests. Our Chef Sally was awesome. A master with flavours, menus and working in a very confined space. 3 course breakfasts to set us up for the day, delicious and varied lunches, baked items for our return in the afternoon and amazing 4 course evening meals. How she managed to produce such brilliant food from a phone box is a mystery. Our crew were friendly, professional and skilled. There was a great atmosphere on board amongst crew and fellow passengers. We felt safe and relaxed as the crew worked to ensure that we each had a great holiday experience.
Sandy & Jane: 12 April 2025Idyllic Islands: Mull, Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles