20 August 2022
This was an amazing adventure that exceeded all expectations. The beauty of the Hebrides is legendary, but for us this trip was enhanced by a great crew. Rob's quiet leadership was evident in the way the whole team worked brilliantly together. His ability to judge the weather in getting us to St. Kilda was one of the highlights of the trip. We covered a lot of 'sea", saw many of the stunning islands and Rob always found a beautiful, quiet mooring each evening. Craig provided such excellent service in a professional yet warm and friendly way. Sarah's cooking was just amazing and every meal was delicious - gosh we were spoiled. Learning and experiencing the wildlife of the Islands was such a remarkable aspect of the whole cruise and we were so lucky having Zoe as our wildlife expert. Her knowledge is amazing as is her eyesight!! She was always vigilant and a great guide on the Islands. This was such a memorable week with a super team. Nothing was too much trouble. Thank you all so very much for a very, very special time. Judy Hobrough and Michael Parson
Michael Parson
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