Bucket List Cruise on the Hebridean Princess

I am writing this, sitting in the Tiree Lounge of this amazing little ship. I look around me at the stunning scenery - currently we are sailing through the Sound of Luing with the sea a beautiful aquamarine colour, the hills of Jura and Mull in silhouette against the sun. The guests have enjoyed a trip to Arduaine Gardens this morning, and are now relaxing before lunch. Egon is the waiter in the Tiree Lounge and is recommending different beers to Margaret and Graham, from Tenessee; pouring a pre-lunch G'n'T for Sheila, travelling on her own from Suffolk, and providing coffee and homemade biscuits for others.

The unique atmosphere on board ensures you get to know your fellow guests very quickly, and the officers and crew make you feel instantly at ease. The majority of guests are repeat clients, having been on board 2 or 3 times previously, some even more. The advantage of having been on board means that I've experienced this atmosphere first hand, and it's not something that you can imagine from reading the website or looking at the brochure. I felt like I was part of the Hebridean Princess “family” and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone that they put this experience on their bucket list.

But, down to the ship itself. Charted by the Queen, twice, since the decommissioning of the Royal Yacht Britannia, the service and food are exemplary. The public areas and cabins have been recently refurbished and look fantastic. Amenities in the cabins include full size bottles of Molton Brown toiletries. Cooked breakfast is made to order; 3 course lunches include manageable portions of perfectly cooked risotto, curry or fish (for example). There are usually 2 Gala Dinners on a 7 night cruise, each preceded by champagne reception with canapes such as caviar, lobster and oysters. The Haggis is piped in and addressed by Iain, the “hotel” manager who is in charge of all of the food, drink and cabins. Cheese is purchased from the local dairy at today’s stop and served at dinner.

The all-inclusive aspect of the ship includes a member of staff meeting passengers in Glasgow airport or railway station and accompanying them to the ship on the coach transfer. All excursions, whether National Trust for Scotland Gardens, whisky distilleries or other attractions are included, and usually include a stop for a cup of tea and a cake. All wines, champagnes and spirits on board the ship are included. The bar staff encouraged us to try different whiskies and the local Islay gin, all premium products. Your choice is remembered immediately and Iain or one of his staff are always there to make sure your glass is topped up.

To work off all of this fabulous food and drink, there is a small selection of fitness equipment on the Waterfront Deck, available for guests use. In addition, there are plenty of bikes available to take ashore and explore the many islands the ship stops at.

In summary, if you are looking for a once in a lifetime experience, with the best Scottish hospitality, you need look no further! I would love to tell you more about the Hebridean Princess, so please do get in touch.