2 June 2018
What a friendly company! We were made very welcome from the moment we left the bus. Our luggage was dealt with very efficiently and put on board. The same thing happened on our departure when our bags were delivered to the bus and we were given a warm send off by the wonderful crew. The scenery was stunning and the overnight anchorages were always well-positioned in sheltered bays so that we could have undisturbed nights. It was a well thought-out itinerary, adapting to weather conditions and suggestions from our leaders. The onshore trips were well-organized and help was always offered when using the zodiacs. The crew were a wonderful source of local knowledge and always happy to answer questions. The crew were absolutely wonderful, always cheerful and friendly and so obliging. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The meals were always delicious and varied - how Stevie managed to provide such a variety of piping hot dishes in such a small space is a complete mystery! I can't think of any way the cruise could have been more special for me. Mooring so close to the Cuillins was perhaps my most special moment, although the time spent on St Kilda was quite magical. Seeing such a variety and quantity of birds and sea creatures throughout the trip has inspired me to buy a really good pair of binoculars! Go for it and hope to get good weather and calm seas. It will be an exciting trip and a real adventure. The scenery is spectacular, and such a variety of islands to visit, each with their own special charm.
Heather Hayward
It's difficult to add to Ellen's comments about this cruise, all of which we agree with, but we'll try. Firstly, we would like to echo her comments about the exceptional crew - all four of them combined to make this trip unforgettable. To get to St Kilda on our first attempt was amazing and we forgive Jake for weighing anchor at 4.30 in the morning to get us there. The fact that it was a misty, grey day just added to the atmosphere. Now, what didn't Ellen mention? Fantastic beach lunch/barbecue on Vatersay, the hot tub on board - with a dram!, the magical cave on the Shiants and the not quite so magical cave on Eigg, unbelievable numbers of birds on both St Kilda and the Shiants, 50 dolphins bow riding - wow!, fantastic seafood (did I mention that I caught some mackerel? Thanks, Jake) As Ruth said when we got back to Oban - "The only thing that would have made it more memorable would have been if Lauren had spotted a giraffe for us" Thank you James, Emma and the crew of the good ship Emma Jane.
Iain and Ruth Moody: 4 July 2025St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides