Exploring Scotland’s Hebridean Islands

hebrides

The beautiful Scottish Hebrides often escapes us when considering cruise holidays; but as one of the last great wildernesses and located on our doorstep, its spectacular scenery and rare wildlife such as the puffin, golden eagle, basking shark, whale and dolphin offer a fantastic British Isles cruise option.

Isolated, peaceful and unspoilt, the islands and lochs dotted around the Hebrides are best accessed by water. So, who offer the best cruise holidays in Scotland’s Hebrides?

Hebridean Island Cruises are positioned in here year round, operating the occasional British Isles cruise in the interim onboard the magical Hebridean Princess, making them experts of this remote destination.

Seeking out locations that are rich in culture, beauty and history, Hebridean Island Cruises can reach destinations that other larger ships simply cannot venture to.

The charming Hebridean Princess has a maximum capacity of just 50 passengers and you will immediately experience the friendly and intimate atmosphere of small ship cruising as the attentive crew welcome you aboard.

The ship’s décor reflects that of a small floating country house hotel and the cosy main lounge with its log fire sets the scene for pipers to cast you under Hebridean Island Cruises’ spell. Each room has a name reflective of the Scottish Highlands and Hebrides, rather than a number, adding to its warmth.

Her Majesty the Queen is a loyal supporter of this little gem of a vessel, chartering the Hebridean Princess for her 80th birthday and also in 2010 for the Duke of York’s 50th birthday celebrations.  This is testament to the wonderful cruising experience offered by Hebridean Island Cruises and why Hebridean recently earned its Royal Warrant. Our view is, if it’s good enough for Her Majesty, it’s good enough for us!

Setting sail from Oban (which is accessible from Glasgow), Hebridean Island Cruises navigates around Scotland’s beautiful Western Isles, The Northern Isles of Orkney & Shetland. Ashore, you can enjoy small private excursions as you learn about the history of these fascinating locations and visit the beautiful landscapes of the Hebrides, or you may wish to explore at your own pace on scenic walks or by bicycle, to discover picturesque villages and ancient castles. Hebridean Island Cruises’ varied itineraries also include their Footloose collection, offering a rare chance to enjoy guided walks in some of the most remote and beautiful places in the British Isles.

Hebridean Princess will be embarking on her 25th cruising season in 2013 marking a momentous occasion for Hebridean Island Cruises as they celebrate their ‘Silver Anniversary’.

New for 2013, Hebridean Island Cruises will be introducing a partnership with an organisation called Sea-Changers to help safeguard the iconic wildlife occupying the waters of Scotland’s Hebrides. Guests will have the opportunity to make a donation to Sea-Changer, which will directly go towards marine conservation, ensuring the safekeeping of its spectacular wildlife for futures cruise holiday guests.

There really is no better way to explore this incredible corner of the British Isles.

 

Karl Graham is a travel writer and blogs for Mundy Cruising, who will be operating luxury cruises to the Hebridean Islands in 2014.

 

 

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