28 August 2023
We set off from Oban in the Elizabeth G under the expert skippering (is that a word ?) of Alistair, Bosun Craig was ever attentive providing drinks and excellenttable service, Zoe our guide pointing out various wildlife species and Charle our Chef providing delicious meals and snacks all throughout the cruise. I would nominate Charlie for Master Chef. Alistair plotted our course northwards, we saw Dolphins on our first day, poor Zoe couldn't get me to say pods, "herds of them" was my cry, it was amazing that these highly intelligent creatures would actively go out of their way to interact with us, it happened every day and our faces ached with the smiles these fantastic animals generated. We saw Minke whales almost every day as well The Elizabth G may be 60 years old but she is in excellent condition, strong, reliable, steady in a strong wind and swell because of her stabilisers, she has character and a beauty all of her own. She is big enough to give you confidence that she can tackle what mother nature throws at her but small enough to anchor in some truly amazing places. Every day you go ashore and explore another new location. (Weather permitting) Every member of the crew is dedicated to making sure you get the most out of your cruise, excellent food, excellent care, super knowledge of the flora and fauna. You go to bed every evening with your knowledge expanded, your spirits lifted. If you want to see Dolphins, Whales, Harbour Porpoises, Eagles, Shags, Gannets, Manx Shearwater, Gulls of every type, the list of encounters is limited only by the time/length of your cruise, sign up for a cruise as soon as you can. Alistair, the skipper has the utmost respect for the wildlife you encounter, every encounter is on the animals terms, their safety takes priority, he lets the wildlife come to the boat rather than pursuing it. His storytelling is wonderful, every evening he and Zoe join you and he shows you where you have been, where you are going and what weather to expect, there is even a knowledge test at the end of the cruise. Zoe goes through every wildlife encounter, she shares her knowledge enthusiastically. We have seen so much that has enthralled is we have walked in beautiful locations, we have been cared for by the crew, we have had a brilliant holiday. Thanks to Emma and everyone at Hebrides Cruises. David and Tracy
David and Tracy Woods-Thomas
The whole experience was a delight, James, Will, Carlton and Sofia were lovely and the ship and accommodation was great, our cabin (5) was well designed and comfortable with ideal nooks and crannies for storage. We made for a very sociable group and the ambiance was helped by the friendly atmosphere on board. It was all very enjoyable and the scenery stunning sailing up to the sea lock at Fort William and along the canal and lochs towards Inverness. It is a truly lovely time of year to visit the Highlands and the perspective from water level on the ship was ideal. Will provided an expert guide to the flora and fauna along the way and the walks on shore. Seeing spectacular skeins of Pink Footed Geese on their way to their feeding grounds on the morning of the last day was a particular highlight. I would not hesitate to recommend the cruise, we both had a lovely time in good company with a delightful and knowledgeable crew.
Peter Thomas: 16 September 2023Loch Linnhe, the Caledonian Canal & Loch Ness