23 April 2022
This must be one of the most relaxing holidays I have ever been on. A lifelong ambition was fulfilled be visiting Staffa and seeing Fingal's Cave and it was every bit as spectacular as I had hoped. Not only did we walk down the route to it to look into it but, thanks to Chris judging the tide to be right, he was able to get us right inside it. Iona and its abbey were impressive too of course and being able to land on Lunga in the Treshnish Islands and see the seabird colonies - puffins galore - was equally marvellous. The sail round Mull was an eye-opener too, seeing lochs from the sea rather than from the land. They were wonderful locations to spend the nights. And the weather was glorious. The wildlife was in abundance too with lots of seabirds and seals and good sightings of cetaceans. Bottle-nosed dolphins were the first up to bow-wave and we also had 4 or 5 Minke whales fishing and a few porpoises, but the most spectacular were over 100 Common Dolphins which came leaping from all directions to accompany us for over an hour. The hospitality on board was as friendly as ever on a Hebrides Cruises's trip thanks to Chris, Craig, Zoe and Sian with her delicious meals. Add to that very compatible fellow-travellers and no WiFi (so no gloomy news) and this was a holiday to be long treasured in the memory.
Helen Mainwood
We found the whole process very easeful and Emma just lovely. All was managed beautifully with weather, conditions and the passengers. A great balance, not too long at sea and going ashore felt timely and open, not over controlled. Our wishes and mobility always explored and agreed upon. Excursions agreed not imposed. We loved our cruise so much, the fellow passengers especially will become lifelong finds. May we make a special mention of the crew. ALL were such a delight, exceptional in their kindness, organisation and knowledge. We will miss them too and we must say Will in his unassuming quiet way seemed to have a breath of knowledge that was amazing ! Callum a young enthusiastic positive guy that will be a total success in life and Angus….what can we say a Chapter in his own right wonderful skipper and person.
Lynne Treasaden: 3 September 2022Skye and the Small Isles: Hebridean horizons