20 April 2024
This was our first trip with Hebrides Cruises and right from the word go it was clear we had chosen a very professional & client centered operator. From the time of being welcomed by the crew of Elizabeth G and Owner Rob & Emma, at the jetty head to the time of our departure we were extremely well looked after, plus the Scottish clouds parted and we had a wonderful week of sun which simply added to the delights of our adventure. Alasdair as Captain was brilliant, Charlie always cheerfully produced fabulous meals from her galley, Craig as bosun and 'cabin fairy' kept the ship spic and span, and was always charming, and last but not least, Hannah our wild life expert (& fellow Northumbrian) was full of enthusiasm and knowledge, so every day was a school day for us in expanding our knowledge of wildlife in this area. Highlights included puffins on Lunga, Common dolphins in the bow wave, Eagles, Otters and Joanne's birthday (same day as Rob's it turned out!) with a fabulous ship made carrot cake and fizz to welcome us back aboard after a great day ashore on Iona and an interesting ride back in the rib!! As reasonably regular sailors on both larger ships and smaller yachts (crewed by just us!), this was a wonderful way to experience the West coast of Scotland and its many hidden gems. The problem now, is which one to choose next.......
Keith & Joanne Jackson
Well! Where does one start to describe such a phenomenal adventure. As a couple of old folk, well into their eighties, with one of us disabled and only recently diagnosed with dementia. You may wonder what on earth were we doing, taking on a small vessel wild life cruise into the seas around the Hebrides. An act of Faith, maybe. Fear not! This is no ordinary “cruise company”. Read on, this is something else. From the very onset, when first contacting Emma, (and before realising we had a dementia situation) , we were treated with immense respect, given prompt very sincere answers to all our queries and immediately realised we were dealing with a very genuine company and warm people. We could do this! So it proved to be. All the guidance and joining information was detailed, accurate and very helpful. On arrival at North Pier, Oban, prior to boarding, we were met by the most friendly of people who promptly took our luggage and conveyed it to our boat, LucyMary. And there she was! The most handsome of vessels, gleaming and awaiting her guests, whilst laid alongside the pontoons. We felt like royalty. At the foot of the companionway stood owner Rob, waiting to greet his guests. No, not captain, skipper, or the like, simply Rob. The head of what was for the duration, a close knit group of guests and crew who blended together seamlessly into one very happy family the whole trip. The crew of four were simply brilliant. Starting with Rob, of course. Then in no particular order - Indie, our extraordinary and knowledgeable naturalist and wild life expert. Abbie, delightful, ever accommodating stewardess, who looked after everyone with continuous attention. Serving meals, making drinks, tidying cabins, fetching and carrying. Then , the chef! Perry. Wow, what he produced in the galley was exquisite. But, it didn’t stop there. All of the crew joined in where appropriate with any other duties too.
Mike & Margaret Knighton: 18 September 2023The Small Isles and sea lochs: Wildlife havens