28 July 2022
All absolutely wonderful! The crew – Skipper Angus, boatswain Callum, chef Charlie and guide Sam – were friendly, courteous, and 100% competent at all times, and simply great company, in whom we had complete confidence. Angus skilfully navigated us around scenic and wildlife-rich sites that were more or less sheltered from the somewhat persistent south-westerlies, with tranquil anchorages, and was always willing to let us peer at his seabed charts along our route (Loch Sunnart > N. Ardnamurchan > Inverie > Rum > Tobermory > Strontian > Sunnart > Ulva > around S. Mull, including Iona, to Lochbuie, then Loch Spelve > Oban). Lots of enjoyable walks along the way, enlivened by Sam’s amazing ability to spot wildlife and his encyclopaedic knowledge thereof – a highly experienced guide who added enormously to our enjoyment. Charlie magicked up delicious, wholesome meals in her tiny galley, and Callum got us safely anchored, on and off the tender and completed the cheerful company. Great Team!
Peter Skelton
Unfortunately our trip coincided with the most prolonged strong winds for twenty five years, which made the crossing to St. Kilda impossible. Nevertheless our skipper, James, made the best use of both wind and sea conditions and managed to get us over to the Outer Hebrides when other operators had been unable to do so. Taking advantage of the islands themselves we sailed almost the entire length of the archipelago, from Harris to Mingulay, going ashore on Eriskay, Vatersay, Harris and Mingulay. James also attempted to get us over to the Shiants, but we had barely cleared Scalpay when it became obvious to everyone that the conditions made this too dangerous. Despite these setbacks we had an interesting and enjoyable trip and were very grateful to James for what he enabled us to experience. We have nothing but praise for the way in which we were looked after on board by the rest of the crew; Viv served up a series of excellent meals (I still dream about her pork!), Charlotte was constantly busy seeing to our every need, and Will kept us alert, both on board and ashore, to any wildlife that was around and provided a wealth of information on our walks. All four crew members were a delight to sail with and I am only sorry that we had such a short time to say goodbye to them.
David Leonard Davies: 11 June 2022St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides