5 May 2025
Ben and I have recently returned from what was simply the most remarkable and unforgettable experience of the Inner Hebrides aboard the Emma Jane with family and old friends. We have travelled around northern Scotland many times over the years, mostly up in Assynt and across to the Outer Hebrides. We love the soul and spirit, the flora and the fauna of the ancient lands, it’s our ‘happy place’. We were so excited about the trip. Our experience with you surpassed so much of what we have done in the past. Yes, we were so very lucky with the weather and being on the sea in a beautiful boat is just wonderful. But none of it would have been so memorable without the delightful crew, each and every one of you who just made it such a magical trip. Charlie thank you for an abundance of delicious, tasty food that landed on the table day after day. Feeding us relentlessly and the scones were the best ever. Jas – Auntie Jas! – your attention to detail, always there when we needed you to be, popping up at just the right time. Subtly professional with amazing cabin tidying skills. Will – your astonishing wildlife knowledge will not be forgotten. It made such a difference to the trip to have you there feeding us with gems of information throughout. We learned so much and we both feel that our attitudes and perspectives towards the landscapes and the wildlife have been shaped as a result. Jake – thank you - you were always there, tirelessly working in the background to help and assist with a noticeable commitment to a safe operational environment. We were impressed with how professional you were. James – a massive thank you for being the ultimate skipper. Your lifetime of experience and local knowledge, your sense of humour and professionalism really put the icing on the cake for us. It was such a joy to have you guide us through each day and manage it all so seamlessly. And thank you for your mother’s book which I have read. I really enjoyed it, what an insight into your unique and incredible family life and all the more enjoyable because you were in it! Many a tale you could tell I have no doubt. Please pass on my regards to your mother with my best wishes and let her know that the book is now being passed around the group! Words don’t really cut it to be honest but suffice to say a HUGE thank you from Ben and I for a once in a lifetime experience (although we are already talking about the next trip with you…..!). We really do hope to see you again on one of your lovely vessels and wish you all the very best in the meantime. Sue and Ben xx
Suzanne Goodfellow
This was our fifth trip on Elizabeth G and once again Rob and his superb team (including shore based Emma) delivered another fabulous holiday. Last years didn’t happen due to circumstances beyond everyone’s control. It was great to be back at the sharp end wildlife watching in the dramatic sea and landscapes. Lynsey, the wildlife guide, shared her encyclopaedic knowledge of all things animal and mineral making the holiday even more enjoyable. Sian produced the most delicious menus in quantities way above our capacity although we did our best, especially Jeff. This was our third trip with Craig and it’s just like holidaying with a family friend nothing is too much trouble, superb service. Although sea conditions didn’t allow us to keep to the original itinerary Rob ensured the alternatives were just as rewarding and his choice of overnight anchorages were idyllic and of course there was the mandatory hand dived scallops for dinner on the last night. The wildlife didn’t fail to deliver, breading birds by the tens of thousands on the towering sea cliffs, rafting on the sea and soaring overhead. Plus enough eagles whales and dolphins to keep everyone happy. St Kilda next year. Jill and Dave Jones
Dave Jones: 17 June 2021Far-flung islands: Harris, Taransay & the Flannan Isles