26 June 2025
This was our second trip with Hebrides Cruises and it once again turned out to be a highly memorable and enjoyable trip... and successful trip to St Kilda. The Skipper James and his crew of Will, Indy, Sammy and Abbie are all to be commended for making this trip so wonderful, their care and attitude of nothing being too much trouble was truly appreciated. The sighting of Risso's dolphins at St Kilda was such a joy - not only to us but to James and Indy, which made the sighting all the more special. The food was not only superbly delicious but so imaginative. Lucy Mary's accommodation was extremely comfortable and despite the weather of rain, mist and wind these did not mar our holiday at all. As keen walkers we really enjoyed the many opportunities to walk ashore with Indy, and these helped to counteract the effects of the marvellous food. We would certainly recommend Hebrides Cruises for holidays which are a little different. Kindest Regards to all at Hebrides Cruises, Hazel and Bob ... the ones that kept asking questions, all of which were willingly and patiently answered.
HAZEL WALKER
The cruise was excellent. St Kilda is breath taking for its geology, bird life and mysterious historic buildings. Gill and I quite spontaneously both compared its haunting atmosphere with Machu Picchu. Rob the captain took us as close as possible to some wonderful bird covered cliffs, stacks and caves and homed in on bird flocks, seals, minke whales, dolphins, otters and other wildlife sights whenever he glimpsed them. We enjoyed walking on Hirta and the other islands where we saw so many wildflowers. We were lucky to see the St Kilda mouse and wren although TV enthusiasts might consider the Balamory cat more important. I was surprised to learn that the crew of four had not all worked together many times as they formed such a well co-ordinated team. All the passengers got along well. Rob the captain seemed to know the islands in detail and is obviously a man of many accomplishments but still seemed happy to help serve meals. Sian, the lady chef, produced very fine meals and evening dinners were a culinary and social joy. Craig seemed to be everywhere helping and Zoe the naturalist never stopped looking for wildlife and pointing it out from the boat and when she guided us on the islands. We are both somewhat stiff jointed but with a little help we had no trouble with beach landings. We slept in one of the two smaller cabins. There was no space to spare but we quickly made ourselves at home and were very comfortable. The little wet room worked well. We can happily recommend Hebrides Cruises to anybody. Thanks to all you all.
Gill & Paul Gillians: 5 July 2021St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides