Although it may seem from our cruising calendar that we only work seven months of the year, the winter months are very busy indeed! At the end of the 2019 season, both vessels transferred along the coast to their wintering mooring at Dunstaffnage Marina. Apart from a break for Christmas and New Year, the annual maintenance is ongoing throughout the winter months, where all boat systems are checked for upgrades and repairs, and the fittings and finishes are refreshed and refurbished for a new season. This winter, Emma Jane is getting a complete new central heating system for the comfort of guests. Last year saw the major conversion of Elizabeth G to ensuite cabins, which has met the full approval of her many admirers. This winter we took on another major upgrade for Elizabeth G by extending the top deck to provide a new aft deck space. This will provide a new comfortable deck seating area which will have a detachable cover which can be used whatever the weather, perfect for alfresco drinks and snacks while soaking in the scenery during the day. It will also be the popular place in the evening for that after-dinner dram and a bit of stargazing. Images of the completed new deck will be coming soon!
Once all upgrades and maintenance are complete, both vessels go on the slip for a complete exterior paint so they will look spic and span for the arrival at the pontoons in Oban to greet the crews for the new season. The last, but very important task is to carry out the week-long annual training and induction for the crew, followed by a great feeling of expectancy and pleasure as they welcome onboard the first guests of 2020.
Hello Emma - As you can see from the grades that we have put below, we could not have been more pleased with our time on Elizabeth G. We were blessed with exceptionally fine weather which obviously colours our views a little, but our enjoyment of the whole time would not have been anywhere as much had it not been for the service we received. Food was excellent, leaving nothing to be desired. Wildlife sightings were exceptional including all the bird life that we expected, plus bonuses like Snowy owl, Humpback whale, Sunfish, Risso’s dolphin, Minke whale and very close encounters with a large pod of common dolphins. All of these were made possible by the local knowledge and skill at spotting of the crew. Onshore trips were well organised and we visited and also moored in some beautiful places. Many thanks for making this holiday such a memorable experience. We would recommend it to anyone, especially people who enjoy good food, natural history and beautiful scenery. Jim & Margaret Oakley.
Jim Oakley: 17 July 2021St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides