2016
C ruise D irectory Highlands & Islands of Scotland Northern Ireland & The Isle of Man
By appointment to HM The Queen Provision of cruise holidays on Hebridean Princess All Leisure Holidays Ltd, trading as Hebridean Island Cruises
Welcome to the 2016 Hebridean Princess Cruise Directory With around 65% of our guests returning each year to sail on board Hebridean Princess, it is imperative that our standard of service never falls short of what is expected – exceptional. For us, guest enjoyment is paramount to the success of Hebridean Island Cruises and this includes the enviable reputation that Hebridean Princess has come to enjoy during her 27 seasons of operation. Over the years I have had the pleasure of meeting many guests and from the comments and feedback provided on After Cruise Questionnaires, it is pleasing to learn that we appear to be getting most things right. We cannot, however, be complacent and we know that we must strive to improve our product. This winter, during our annual refit and maintenance period, we seized the opportunity to refurbish many of the public areas on board including the Tiree Lounge, the Conservatory, the Look-Out Lounge and the Library. We pride ourselves on everything we do and our common goal is to ensure that each and every guest is provided with the highest quality of service, care and attention to detail in every possible way. We very much look forward to welcoming you on board in 2016.
Best regards
Ken Charleson Chief Operating Officer
Contents
Genuinely fully-inclusive
2
Crew
3
Life on board – public rooms
4-7
Dining and cuisine
8-9
Going ashore
10-11
Themed cruises, guest speakers and guides
12-13
Partnerships
14
Belmond Royal Scotsman train
15
Islands A-Z
16-19
Cruise itineraries
20-97
Cabins
98-104
Good connections
105
On board A-Z
106-107
What you need to know
108
Cabin facilities
109
Deck plans
110
99% of our guests have told us they had an enjoyable holiday 98% have told us they would consider cruising on Hebridean Princess again 99% of our guests would recommend Hebridean Princess to others * Percentages are based on our 2014 cruising season and are calculated from the total of returned After-Cruise Questionnaires
Hebridean Princess, Loch Linnhe
Hebridean Princess
Genuinely fully-inclusive and more...
Each cruise includes Meals and drinks
Port taxes All pier and harbour dues.
All meals on board and ashore, snacks
Gratuities
and picnics as shown in the itineraries
Hebridean operates a ‘no tipping’
and fresh fruit from baskets around
policy.
the ship. Champagne, wines (excluding wines on the Library Wines list), plus
A celebration
beers, spirits, soft drinks, tea, coffee
If you plan to mark a special occasion
and other hot drinks.
on board, perhaps a wedding
Shore visits
anniversary or birthday, we will be only too happy to help you celebrate
Entrance fees to all castles, gardens
by arranging for Champagne, a cake
and other places of interest, as well
or canapés, to enjoy in the privacy
as transfers between the ship and
of your cabin, or maybe share with
each destination ashore, as shown in
family and friends in the Library.
the itineraries.
To celebrate these happy moments
Guides and guest speakers Knowledgeable guides accompany
in true Hebridean style, please place a special request through our reservations staff.
all cruises, both on board and on the tours ashore, with three experienced guides on the Footloose walking itineraries. Guest speakers feature on
Not included • Travel to and from our private coach transfer points
selected cruises. • Wines on the Library Wines list
Bicycles
• Any private shore visits organised
Use of the ship’s bicycles to
by request which are not part of
explore ashore.
the cruise itinerary
Internet
• Personal telephone calls
Free Wi-Fi access and use of the
• Items purchased from the
ship’s iPads, located in the Library.
Hebridean Princess shop
Transfers and car parking
• Personal laundry
Private coach transfers from the local
Travel with family and friends
airport or train station to and from Hebridean Princess. For those wishing to drive, secure parking is provided at the port.
Insurance Single trip travel insurance. Restrictions may apply.
If you would prefer to holiday with your family and friends, why not invite them to join you on board Hebridean Princess, for the supreme cruising experience?
Charters Alternatively enjoy the ultimate
Extra activities At no extra charge, your holiday can be made even more enjoyable with fishing trips and speedboat rides, which can be arranged on request.
2
private party afloat and charter Hebridean Princess for up to 50 guests.
Crew
At Hebridean Island Cruises we believe it is simply not possible to look after large numbers of guests properly and give them the really personal service that differentiates an extraordinary holiday from a merely good one. That is why, on Hebridean Princess, you will find only 50 like-mined souls and no fewer than 38 crew to look after you. If you would like to be known by
Discreet service is the bedrock of
your name within moments of
our reputation and the uncannily
coming on board, to have your
accurate anticipation of your needs is
smallest preferences remembered,
a skill that our crew has developed
then mass-market style cruising will
into almost an art form.
never be a satisfactory alternative.
For us, resoluteness in the pursuit of
Everything we do receives the same
perfection is something for which, in
level of care and attention; from the
our view, there is no alternative.
carefully conceived shore visits to the
Behind the scenes we will be striving
spectacular overnight anchorages,
day and night to ensure that yours is
the exquisite menus and the unique
the best holiday you have taken.
and individually designed cabins, every little detail aims to ensure that
Your job is to simply sit back, relax and slow down – Hebridean style!
the whole experience is so complete that you will never even notice.
Captain Richard Heaton
Captain Trevor Bailey
3
Tiree Lounge
Life on board – public rooms
After an energetic walk ashore,
Having recently undergone a major
providing cosy areas grouped
the comfort and homeliness of
makeover by renowned interior
around perhaps the most extraordinary
designers John Dick & Son, the public
feature of the ship – a brick
rooms on board Hebridean Princess
inglenook fireplace!
Hebridean Princess welcomes you back as though to your own
offer a truly cosy and welcoming
home; and that is how we, and
atmosphere.
have described Hebridean Princess
more importantly our guests, like The Tiree Lounge, with its intimate
for many years and remain true to the
bar, is the social focal point;
original description. Fifty like-minded
‘Like home but better’ is how she
beautifully designed and filled with
guests mix in a convivial atmosphere
has previously been described.
soft armchairs and welcoming sofas
and create a house party mood.
to think of this unusual little ship.
4
‘A Floating Country House’ is how we
Tiree Lounge
Conservatory
Library
Tiree Lounge
5
Library
Look-Out Lounge
6
Library
Library
In the peaceful wood-panelled
Painted, rattan furniture brings a
Library a masculine feel has been
casual feel to the Conservatory
created, using leather, unique
and the natural look has been
upholstery and dark woods and
complemented by the beautifully
should a spot of solitude appeal,
restored teak flooring. A wonderfully
there is a fine selection of reference
calm space to enjoy the scenery.
and general interest books to be enjoyed.
The emphasis on low key entertainment is complemented by
The soft tones furnishing the Look-Out
the gentle art of conversation and
Lounge flow seamlessly from the
the certain knowledge that fellow
colour palette in the foyer areas,
guests have chosen this style of
creating a relaxing space to take in
holiday as much for what it doesn’t
the stunning views.
offer as for what it does.
Look-Out Lounge
Conservatory
Conservatory
7
Columba Restaurant
Dining and cuisine The Columba Restaurant, with its cherry-wood panelling, fine artworks and discreet lighting is a romantic venue to enjoy the genial ambiance. Single-sitting dining means that your designated table for two awaits and, for solo travellers, the senior Officers invite guests to join them in convivial groups.
8
It is said that sea air stimulates the
Dinners and most lunches are served
with fresh fruit, home-baked breads,
appetite and it is certainly our
in the elegant Columba Restaurant,
cooked Scottish fayre and of course,
experience that, after a morning or
through whose large windows the
Chef’s own take on that Scottish
afternoon ashore, guests are eager to
scenery glides by as you dine. On
staple (porridge), with or without a
be taken to the very finest destinations
occasions, lunch may be served al
wee dram!
of haute cuisine created by a talented
fresco and, on certain cruises, Chef
brigade of chefs and lead by
will take his skills ashore and produce
Our Gala Dinners are sparkling
Scotland’s finest culinary artists.
a legendary Hebridean picnic – an
occasions, from the Champagne
extraordinary contrast to the rugged
reception in the Tiree Lounge to
scenery in which it will be served.
a gourmet dinner – and no cruise
Only the freshest and finest
would be complete without a
ingredients are used in our menu choices, most of which are procured
Breakfasts are informal and are as
traditional recital of Robert Burns’
from local suppliers.
healthy or as hearty as you choose
Address to the Haggis!
9
Going ashore Unlike most cruise ships, a Hebridean Princess cruise includes a large number of shore visits. From cultural to historical, serious walking and biking to simply strolling around the bay, the opportunities to experience the peace are endless.
10 Main image: Footloose on Rum; Insets left to right: Shona, our tender; Inverewe Garden; Our speed boat
On most days Hebridean Princess
Some of the islands we visit are so
Our long-standing connections in this
berths or anchors in different
off the beaten track that no landing
remote corner of the kingdom enable
locations both morning and
place is available. We will then use our
us to arrange visits to privately
afternoon, whilst the ship’s tenders
special beach landing craft for an
owned castles and garden, with an
are on hand to operate a shuttle
exciting chance to wander an
opportunity to talk to the owners
service ashore. Should you choose
uninhabited island or headland.
and enjoy the different dimension of a visit that is utterly personal.
to wander at will, the small boats are always available to transport you
The effects of the Gulf Stream bring
back on board if the yearning for a
a warmth and a fertility to this region
glass of something or chef’s afternoon
that make it quite unlike any other in
ensure that visits ashore are fascinating,
tea prove too hard to resist.
the British Isles.
instructive and utterly enjoyable.
Small numbers and common interests
11
Themed cruises, guest speakers and guides Themes Whilst our ‘Footloose’ walking programme has been a feature of our sailing calendar for many years,
Brodick Castle
Talisker Distillery
its success has inspired the inclusion of other themed itineraries for 2016. Charles MacLean
Spirit of Scotland 15th to 22nd March 2016 Page 26-27
NT
T
NK
& DR I OD
I
Footloose walking cruises are accompanied by three highly experienced guides, two of whom are specialist walking guides with an intimate knowledge of the terrain. These exhilarating itineraries cater for all whether you are a seasoned walker, prefer to stroll, or to vary the pace from day to day.
FO
Footloose Walking
ERES
RDEN GA
IN
Flavours of Scotland 5th to 12th April 2016 Page 32-33
Castles and Gardens of the North
TE R EST
12th to 19th April 2016 Page 34-35
Gardens G
Relish the magnificent splendour of some of Britain’s most beautiful gardens, cossetted by the warming effects of the Gulf Stream; a true horticultural extravaganza.
Footloose through the Inner Isles
U ISE
26th April to 3rd May 2016 Page 38-39
A LK I N W
CR
Sarah Staniforth
Northern Ireland Explorer
Classical Music
Nat u
& Wil d re e lif
Explore the Inner Hebrides with classical music recitals in some of the most inspiring locations imaginable, including Fingal’s Cave on Staffa, the inspiration for Mendelssohn.
17th to 24th May 2016 Page 44-45
In t
ere st
Call of the Wild 24th to 31st May 2016 Page 46-47
Food and Drink Scotland is renowned for some of the freshest and most mouth-watering cuisine throughout the world and this cruise will introduce you to some of the finest restaurants in the Western Isles.
Whisky
12
H
ER
I TA G
E
St Kilda, Islands on the Edge 31st May to 7th June 2016 Page 48-49 Jim Gardiner
RDEN GA
Scotland in Colour IN
TE R E
ST
A LK I N W
G
Scottish whiskies are regarded by many as the world’s most revered drink. Their differing tastes are influenced by peat, smoke and even the sea and may be classed as works of art in their own right. On this cruise we explore some of the greatest distilleries on the west coast of Scotland.
ORLD W
CR
U ISE
7th to 14th June 2016 Page 50-51
Footloose in the Outer Isles 14th to 21st June 2016 Page 52-53
Knowledgeable guides No cruise on board Hebridean Princess would be complete without our Village Bay, St Kilda
Ring of Brodgar, Orkney
specially selected guides, who have sailed with us for a number of years, contributing their particular spheres of expertise and interest to enrich your
ORLD W H
ER
I TA G
E
The Hebridean Outposts of St Kilda
stay on board and make your holiday
28th June to 5th July 2016 Page 56-57
experience even more special. A highly knowledgeable and
IC US
CLA S
AL SIC M
IN
TE R EST
Hebridean Symphony 5th to 12th July 2016 Page 58-59
experienced guide accompanies guests for the duration of each cruise, with three on ‘Footloose’ walking itineraries, always there to offer information and an occasional helping hand. Single
VA NA L HI
ST O
RY
Rear Admiral John Lippiett
Following the Grand Fleet 12th to 21st July 2016 Page 60-61
guests can enjoy their company at dinner, when they join an Officer’s table in the Columba Restaurant. After-dinner talks, over coffee and petit fours, are enjoyable moments,
G
A LK I N W
U ISE
TORICA IS
L
H
CR
Footloose in the Far North
outlining the next day’s activities and
30th July to 8th August 2016 Page 64-65
shedding fresh light on the unique
Professor Jane Downes Julie Gibson
Enriching guest speakers
Stone Age Scotland IN
TE R EST
8th to 16th August 2016 Page 66-67
regions through which we sail.
The enrichment of discovery and thrill of knowledge put Hebridean Princess
I
NT
T
FO
NK
& DR I OD
ERES
Flavours of Scotland 4th to 11th October 2016 Page 84-85
cruises in a category of their own. Our on board speakers are chosen precisely because they are among some of the best authorities in their field. Passionate about their subject,
Highland Heritage
these captivating orators bring each
11th to 18th October 2016 Page 86-87
cruise alive and are delighted to share their knowledge with their fellow guests – a true meeting of minds.
TECHTU HI
T
I
N
L RA
ARC
Miranda Krestovnikoff
TERES
Call of the Clyde
During our 2016 season Guest
25th October to 1st November 2016 Page 90-91
specially selected cruises.
Speakers will accompany seven
David Winpenny
Grand Houses and Castles of the Clyde 1st to 8th November 2016 Page 92-93 13
Partnerships Inveraray Castle Strachur Strachur House Ardkinglas House
Crarae
NADFAS
ne
h
Fy
Rhu Hill House
c Lo
Hebridean Island Cruises is proud to be associated with
GREENOCK
NADFAS, a prestigious association which has great synergies
Finlaystone House
with Hebridean. Not only are members entitled to a 5%
I N V E R C LY D E
saving on any Hebridean Princess cruise*, they will also be
BUTE Largs Ardgowan House Kelburn Castle
helping to support NADFAS by booking a Hebridean cruise. Our NADFAS recommended cruise in 2016 is Grand Houses and Castles of the Clyde, featuring NADFAS lecturer, David Winpenny, who has a
ARRAN
Firth of Clyde
fascination with architecture and garden history.
Troon Dumfries House Dundonald Castle
Please refer to pages 92-93 for full details of this cruise. *Not combinable with any other offer.
Campbeltown Glenbarr Abbey
OBAN
National Trust
Craobh Haven Arduaine Garden JURA
Tayvallich
As part of All Leisure Holidays, Hebridean Island Cruises has teamed up with the National Trust to offer members a wonderful range of cruises in 2016. Not only will members be entitled to a 5% saving off any Hebridean Princess cruise*, they will also be helping to support the National Trust. Our National Trust partnership cruise, Northern Ireland Explorer, features Sarah Staniforth, former Museums and Collections Director of the
Cushendun Ballycastle Giant’s Causeway Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Belfast Titanic Exhibition
National Trust. Strangford Lough
Glenarm Glemarm Castle
Bangor Mount Stewart House
Please refer to pages 44-45 for full details of this cruise. Derrymore House *Not combinable with any other offer.
Warrenpoint
Sea-Changers The preservation of the cruising environment in which Hebridean Princess operates, and the marine life which it supports, is of great importance to Hebridean Island Cruises. For that reason we are delighted to continue our dedicated partnership with the marine conservation charity, Sea-Changers. Sea-Changers is a charity with the mission of raising funds for marine conservation, primarily in the UK. Their vision is to create a world where seas and shores are clean and healthy, marine species are protected and where, far from damaging the oceans, those who use the sea for travel or their leisure pursuits, positively contribute to the sustainability of the marine environment. Since the partnership began, Hebridean guests have raised well over ÂŁ10,000 to support marine conservation work in the UK. For more information on Sea-Changers please call our reservations staff on 01756 704704 or visit www.sea-changers.org.uk 14
Registered Charity England and Wales No 1142119 and Scotland No. SCO43922
Carlingford Lough
Belmond Royal Scotsman Scotland’s Luxury Sleeper Train Hebridean Princess and Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland's Luxury Sleeper Train, have teamed up to offer the ultimate luxury tour of Scotland. A journey on Belmond Royal Scotsman takes you straight to the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The train’s interior is designed as a luxurious home from home and just 36 guests travel through Scotland’s finest countryside in private cabins decorated in country style. There are glorious views from every window, but to get really close to the scenery and feel the bracing air, head to the open deck observation carriage at the rear.
Belmond Royal Scotsman Journeys: • 3 or 4-nights on the Belmond Royal Scotsman, as specified, including all meals, wine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, visits and entertainment; • Post-train journey accommodation, as indicated*, at the 5-star Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh on a bed and breakfast basis; • A chauffeur driven transfer from the Balmoral Hotel to Hebridean’s private coach on the day of cruise embarkation;
Life on board this luxury train is relaxed and indulgent, with gastronomic dining in the two dining cars where you will be treated to the delicious
* Please note that some journeys do not require accommodation between the end of the train journey and commencement of the cruise.
cuisine of the on board chefs. Belmond Royal Scotsman Itinerary Highlights: Service is attentive, but never intrusive and colourful touches, such as being
(all journeys start and end at Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station)
welcomed on board at Edinburgh Waverley Station by a Highland Piper,
Western Journey (3 nights)
add to the thrill of the experience.
Rannoch Moor · Morar · Glenfinnan · Nevis Gorge · Weymss Bay · Isle of Bute · Mount Stuart House
Along the way, guests disembark to meet local personalities, talk to experts on subjects from salmon
Classic Journey (4 nights)
fishing to whisky and take part in fun
Idyllic town of Keith · Glen Ord Distillery · Luib Summit · Plockton · Eilean Donan Castle · Ballindalloch Castle · Strathspey Railway · Rothiemurchus Estate · Glamis Castle · Tay Bridge
activities; a truly Scottish rail vacation par excellence.
For more information or to book a cruise extension contact our reservations team on 01756 704704 or email: reservations@hebridean.co.uk
Belmond Royal Scotsman Departure Date
Journey Name
22nd April 29th April 6th May 13th May 20th May 2nd June 10th June 17th June 24th June 2nd September 16th September 23rd September 6th October
Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Classic Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Western Journey Classic Journey
Balmoral Hotel Nights Nights
3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 4
1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Hebridean Princess Departure Date
Hebridean Princess Cruise Itinerary
Page
26th April 3rd May 10th May 17th May 24th May 7th June 14th June 21st June 28th June 6th September 20th September 27th September 11th October
Footloose through the Inner Isles Westward to Harris and Lewis Voyage to the Outer Isles Northern Ireland Explorer Call of the Wild Scotland in Colour Footloose in the Outer Isles Manx Heritage The Hebridean Outposts of St Kilda Argyll's Atlantic Islands Westward to Harris and Lewis Voyage to the Outer Isles Highland Heritage
38-39 40-41 42-43 44-45 46-47 50-51 52-53 54-55 56-57 74-75 80-81 82-83 86-87
15
Kisimul Castle, Barra
Scottish Islands A-Z The wildly beautiful coast of Scotland is scattered with hundreds of islands and islets shaped by the relentless pounding of the sea and the ever-changing weather. Sublimely secluded, all are unique, forming a world apart that is little-known and accessible to the very few – yours to explore from the comfort of our delightfully small ship, Hebridean Princess. Experience their magic and mystery; revel in their rich diversity from the Firth of Clyde to the Inner and Outer Hebrides, and over the Pentland Firth to the Northern Isles with their distinctive Nordic feel. Come and discover these precious island gems. Arran
Please see pages 20, 23, 24, 26, 94 and 97
Colonsay
Firth of Clyde Islands Influenced by the mild North Atlantic Drift, Arran is a wildlife haven rising to high peaks, including four Corbetts. At the foot of the highest, Goatfell, nestles 16th century red-sandstone Brodick Castle, close to Brodick town. Fifteen miles (24 km) to the north, the 14th century ruined castle of Lochranza was once a royal hunting lodge.
Canna, Small Isles
Inner Hebrides Another bird-haven, home to some 200 bird species including the elusive corncrake, and 400 species of flora, Colonsay is a landscape of many contrasts from machair to woods, moors to green fields and rocky to sandy cliff-backed shores. Its finest beach is dramatic Kiloran Bay and inland lie the exotic woodland gardens of Colonsay House.
Please see pages 20, 23, 26, 90 and 94
Barra Outer Hebrides Named after a 6th century saint and world-famous for its unique beach airport, Traigh Mòr, Barra is a beautiful, tranquil island with a fascinating history. Golden beaches backed by sandy, wild flower-dotted machair surround a more rugged interior. The main centre is the once prosperous herring port of Castlebay, where the Macneil’s medieval fortress, Kisimul Castle, perches on a rock outcrop offshore.
Inner Hebrides Joined to Sanday by a causeway, secluded Canna lies less than 5 miles (8 km) off Rum. Dubbed the ‘Garden of the Hebrides’, this elongated, green and grassy isle is capped by magnetic Compass Hill at 458 feet (140 m) in the north. Canna was one of the earliest Christian settlements, associated with St Columba, who was later adopted as its patron saint.
Cumbraes
Coll
Please see pages 43, 52, 56, 69, 70, 78 and 82
Bute Firth of Clyde Islands Crossed by the Highland Boundary Fault, Bute is an isle of distinctly contrasting landscapes from the bare, rounded and craggy uplands of the north to the lower, undulating and fertile south. Golden beaches fringe the west coast, many with views over the Sound towards Arran. The Victorian resort of Rothesay is the only town. 16
Please see pages 30, 33, 50, 59, 74 and 84
Please see pages 43, 66, 69, 78 and 82
Coll Inner Hebrides The rocky, wild and virtually treeless island of Coll was first settled in the Stone Age. Dotted with ruined cottages, this bird haven is picturesquely clad in flower-dotted machair, fringed by silver-white beaches, and offers refreshing bike rides and walks. Please see pages 29, 30, 43, 69 and 82
Firth of Clyde Islands The contrasting Cumbraes afford fine views to the mainland, Arran and Bute. Green and undulating Great Cumbrae is home to the only town at Millport, elegantly lining Millport Bay. Here the tiny but beautiful Cathedral of the Isles, regarded as Britain’s smallest cathedral, seats only 100 worshippers. Rough and rocky Little Cumbrae, held by the Hunters and later by the Montgomeries, was maintained as a royal hunting forest. Its surviving ruins include the castle demolished by Oliver Cromwell’s army in 1650 and a small chapel dedicated to St Beya. Please see pages 20, 23, 90 and 94
Eigg, Small Isles
Handa
Inner Hebrides Bought out by its islanders in 1997, Eigg has been settled since prehistoric times and was once the seat of the Lord of the Isles. Its rich past is marked by Iron Age forts, a 6th century church, Viking burial mounds and a graveyard that is a moving testament to the 395 MacDonalds massacred in a cave by the MacLeods in 1577. Rising sheer above the plateau of this wildlife reserve, columnar pitchstone An Sgurr adds magic and mystery.
Inner Hebrides This small, rock isle sits across the Sound of Handa from the wildly beautiful west coast of Sutherland. Magnificent, horizontally stratified rocks of Torridonian sandstone to the north-west, weathered through time into ledges, form a perfect habitat for nesting seabirds, making Handa one of the largest colonies in north-western Europe. Puffin have returned, and other species include the red-throated and black-throated diver, eider and shell duck. The island was abandoned by its eight resident families in 1847.
Please see pages 38, 40, 77, 81 and 87
Please see page 46
Eriska Inner Hebrides ‘Water-nymph Island’ in Gaelic, Eriska is a flat tidal 300 acres (121 ha) island at the entrance to Loch Creran, linked by bridge to the mainland. Privatelyowned, it is run as a luxury hotel, based at Scottish Baronial Eriska House, built in 1884 by the Stewarts of Appin, in wooded grounds.
Eriskay
Fair Isle, Shetland Northern Isles Fair Isle’s landscape of high red-sandstone cliffs descends to a low coastline in the south. Archaeological sites bear witness to its occupation since the Bronze Age. An important watch-point for migrating birds, Fair Isle has been the site of a permanent observatory since 1948. The island is also synonymous with its unique geometric knitting, of possible Spanish or Scandinavian origin.
Inner Hebrides Erstwhile seat of the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles, mild Islay is renowned for the peaty single malts of its eight operating distilleries. Islay abounds in birdlife at the RSPB Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve, hub of a barnacle geese colony and historic treasures from the 18th century round church at Bowmore to the late 9th century High Cross of Kildalton.
Jura Luskentyre beach, Harris
Please see pages 49, 52, 70 and 78
Islay
Please see pages 26, 33, 55, 59, 74, 84 and 90
Please see pages 33 and 84
Outer Hebrides The reputation of the tiny, hilly yet well-populated isle of Eriskay extends far beyond its shores. Home to a rare pony breed, once used in the mines, it was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie first stepped onto Scottish soil in 1745. Eriskay is also famed as the site of the sinking of the SS Politician offshore in 1941, which inspired Compton MacKenzie’s novel and the 1949 film, ‘Whisky Galore’.
Kildalton Cross, Islay
Harris Outer Hebrides Historically and geographically apart from Lewis, Harris is a small region of many contrasts, offering wonderful walks and the beauty of Luskentyre beach on its sandy western shores. Rodel boasts the finest Pre-Reformation church in the Western Isles and the Harris tweeds produced here are world-famous. Although tenacious Gaelic strongholds today, Harris and neighbouring Lewis were the last of the Hebrides to adopt the language. Please see pages 40, 52, 70 and 81
Hoy, Orkney Northern Isles Measuring 55 square miles, Hoy is the second largest island of the Orkney archipelago and is connected to neighbouring South Walls by a causeway called The Ayre. Hoy is home to some of the highest sea cliffs in the UK as well as the impressive and famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy.
Inner Hebrides Crowned by the landmark Paps, Jura is a place of wild beauty offering a haven to a wide range of wildlife, including some 6,500 red deer. Glaciated raised beaches are a marked feature of its western shores, with the treacherous Corryvreckan Whirlpool to the north. Jura has one tiny village of 200 residents, Craighouse, where the small Jura Distillery has produced a unique single malt since 1810. Please see pages 26, 55, 59, 69 and 74
Kerrera Inner Hebrides Tiny Kerrera tranquilly guards the entrance to Oban from its two sheltered harbours at Ardentrive Bay and Horse Shoe Bay. Historically a stepping-stone for cattle drovers between Mull and the mainland, this fertile and hilly isle is crowned by the Renaissance MacDougall stronghold of Gylen Castle. Please see pages 26, 29 and 55
Please see pages 60 and 64
Please see pages 63, 64 and 66
Holy Isle Firth of Clyde Islands Located across Lamlash Bay, Holy Isle has a long history as a sacred site; a spring or Holy Well held to have healing properties, the hermit cave of 6th century monk Saint Molaise and evidence of a 13th century monastery can be found here and there is evidence of some runic writing on the roof of the cave of Saint Molaise. Achamore House Gardens, Gigha
Please see pages 90 and 94
Iona Gigha Inner Hebrides Three miles (4.8 km) west of Kintyre, green and fertile Gigha, ‘God’s’ or ‘Good Island’, is now owned by its community. In addition to dairy farming, goats are reared to produce a distinctive, fruit-shaped cheese – one of the isle’s main exports. Ardminish is the only village and site of Achamore House set in 50 acre (20 ha) gardens planted by Sir James Horlick. Please see pages 50, 69, 74 and 90
Inner Hebrides The exiled Irish prince and missionary St Columba reached Iona in 563 to found his community, landing at pebbled St Columba’s Bay in the south, as the legend goes. Originally dating from the 12th century, the restored abbey remains a much-revered place of pilgrimage. An enjoyable walk across the windswept machair leads to the Bay at the Back of the Ocean, with its Spouting Cave, facing the open Atlantic and America. Please see pages 29, 30, 33, 59, 69 and 84
Callanish Standing Stones, Lewis
Lewis Outer Hebrides Lewis is the largest and most northerly of the Hebrides, forming one island with Harris. Most of its wild landscape, rising to 1,800 feet (549 m) in the south, is cloaked in peat bog – hence its Gaelic name ‘Leodhas’, meaning ‘marshy’. The Callanish Standing Stones and well-preserved Carloway Broch 5 miles (8 km) to the north stand testament to its occupation since prehistoric times. The port of Stornoway is the only town. Please see pages 40, 46, 49, 52, 56, 60, 66, 70 and 81
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Lunga, Treshnish Isles
Please see pages 30, 34, 43, 49, 52, 78 and 82
Inner Hebrides Designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Lunga is rich in plant life with many rare and endangered species native to the island. Described as a ‘green jewel in a peacock sea’ Lunga was inhabited until 1857 and the remains of the ruined village and its blackhouses can still be seen today. Please see page 69
Village Bay, St Kilda
Mainland, Orkney
Mull
Northern Isles Home to the burgh of Kirkwall, the Orcadian capital, and more recent Stromness, dating from the 16th century, Mainland is the most densley populated of the Orcadian isles. Its fertile soil attracted settlers from prehisoric times, as witnessed by the UNESCO World Heritage Neolithic Heart of Orkney, and later Pictish remains. As with the whole of the archipelago, the influence of the Norsemen was strong.
Inner Hebrides Fringed by an indented 300 miles (480 km) coastline, Mull is an island of sweeping moors broken occasionally by picturesque clearings. Colourful Georgian-fronted Tobermory is the capital and Craignure the main port, south-east of which lie Scottish Baronial Torosay Castle and ancient Duart Castle, seat of the Macleans. Please see pages 30, 33, 34, 38, 43, 46, 49, 50, 59, 69, 82, 84 and 87
Please see pages 60, 63, 64 and 66
Raasay Inner Hebrides Located between Skye and the mainland, Raasay, ‘Isle of the Roe Deer’, is relatively low-lying in the north and mountainous in the south, rising to 1,453 feet (443 m) on central Dun Caan. Visited by Boswell and Johnson in 1773, the island is most famous as the birthplace of Scottish Renaissance poet Sorley Maclean. The main village is Inverarish.
Sumburgh Head, Shetland
Please see pages 38, 40, 60, 77, 81 and 87
Mainland, Shetland
Rum, Small Isles
Northern Isles Home to Shetland’s only burgh of Lerwick, Mainland is the third-largest of the Scottish Islands. The long peninsula of South Mainland, south of Lerwick, consists mainly of mixed farmland and moorland with many important archaeological sites, including Sumburgh and Scalloway. Blessed with varied scenery ranging from the charming to the wildly dramatic, the island is a paradise for birds and wildlife from otters to orcas.
Inner Hebrides Capped by Askival (2,664 ft/ 812 m) in the rocky Cuillin, the wildlife haven of
Please see pages 63, 64 and 66
The Quiraing, Skye
Mingulay, Berneray and Pabbay Outer Hebrides At the south tip of the Hebrides, these three uninhabited Bishop’s Isles, swathed in white sandy beaches and flowerscattered machair, are awe-inspiring from the sea. Around Berneray 600 feet (183 m) cliffs, nested by thousands of seabirds, tower up dramatically from the sea. In the north, the Lewisian gneiss ‘Hermit Island’ of Pabbay, settled by an early Christian community, as its Old Norse name implies, is an ideal spot on which to land. Please see pages 43, 49, 52, 69 and 82
Muck, Small Isles Inner Hebrides The flat and fertile Isle of Muck scattered with wild flowers and rimmed by silver shell-sand beaches, is a peaceful haven for puffin, kittiwake, fulmar, shearwater, sea-eagle and the porpoises that swim off its shores. Port Mòr is the only village, where the tearoom and craft shop serves delicious home baking. 18
Rum is a National Nature Reserve and research centre. Owned by Scottish Natural Heritage since 1957, it was bought by the Lancashire industrialist John Bullough in 1879. At the turn of the 20th century, his playboy son, Sir George built the folly of Kinloch Castle, which remains a time-capsule of those headier Edwardian days. Please see pages 29, 34, 38, 46, 69 and 77
Bay of Newark, Sanday
Sanda Firth of Clyde Islands Sanda, ‘Sandaigh’ in Gaelic, is a small, privately-owned island off the southern tip of the Kintyre Peninsula. An important bird migration and breeding point, it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), housing the first bird observatory on the west coast of Scotland. Although the island is treeless today, north-western Wood Hill indicates that this was not always so. Please see page 23, 26, 90 and 94
Sanday, Orkney
Staffa
Please see pages 30, 43, 70 and 82
Inner Hebrides Staffa, named ‘Stave’ or ‘Pillar Island’ by the Vikings, lying 6 miles (10 km) west of Mull, was formed volcanically at the same time as the Giant’s Causeway, cooling into mainly hexagonal black basalt columns. Cliffs rising to 131 feet (40 m) are riddled with caves, the most famous of which is Fingal’s Cave at Staffa’s southern tip, discovered by Sir Joseph Banks on 13th August 1772 en route to Iceland and named after legendary Irish hero, Finn MacCool.
The Uists
Please see pages 33, 58, 59 and 84
Outer Hebrides A paradise for walkers, the tranquil Uists abound in geological and historical contrasts. The low-lying birdhaven of North Uist, scattered with green-blue lochans, is Norse and Protestant by tradition, and a world apart from the Catholic and Gaelic stronghold of South Uist. The secondlargest of the Outer Isles, South Uist’s softer, undulating landscape is carpeted in flower-decked machair and fringed by dunes.
Stroma, Orkney Northern Isles The most southerly of the islands in the Pentland Firth, Stroma lies between Orkney and Caithness. The island's population fell from 375 people in 1901 to just 12 by 1961. The last native islanders left at the end of the following year, while Stroma's final abandonment came in 1997 when the lighthouse keepers and their families departed.
Langais Stone Circle, North Uist
Grobust beach, Westray
Westray, Orkney Northern Isles ‘Queen of the North Isles’, Westray is one of Orkney’s most prosperous islands, engaged in farming and fishing. Its wide array of archaeological sites range from prehistoric settlements to medieval kirks. Wildlife and flora flourish, with seals and the extraordinary bird cliffs at Noup Head, nested by Arctic tern, gannet, guillemot, corncrake, razorbill, fulmar, teal, shoveller, tufted duck and puffin. Please see pages 64 and 66
Please see page 60 Please see pages 43, 49, 52, 66, 70, 78 and 82
Whalsay, Shetland
Unst, Shetland
Inner Hebrides Situated off Mull, the tiny isle of Ulva is a traffic-free haven covering barely 2 square miles (5 km2) and home to only 16 permanent residents. One of the most ancient settlements in the Western Isles and erstwhile seat of Clan MacQuarrie, the island is now privately owned by the Howard family. Ulva’s past is well documented at Sheila’s Cottage Museum on the west coast.
Northern Isles Lying off the east coast of Shetland’s Mainland, a little east of Voe, Whalsay, from the old Norse for ‘Whale Island’ is the 6th largest of the Shetland islands. Better known to Scottish fishermen as ‘The Bonnie Isle’, fishing is the foremost local industry with the main fishing fleet based at Symbister, the principal settlement. A museum has been created in the restored Symbister Pierhouse, also called the Hanseatic Booth, to exhibit details of fishing from centuries past, when German merchants from the Hanseatic League traded for the cured fish which were caught from open boats. The impressive Georgian mansion, Symbister House, overlooking Symbister harbour was built by the Bruce family in the early 1800s. The last resident laird died in 1944 since when the house has been the home of Whalsay School.
Please see pages 29 and 69
Please see page 63
Northern Isles Measuring just 46 square miles, Unst is the most northern of the inhabited British Isles and the third largest of the Shetland Islands. Baltasound is the capital town and the second largest fishing port of Shetland after Lerwick. Please see pages 63 and 64
Vat of Kirbister, Stronsay
Stronsay, Orkney Northern Isles One of the Orcadian isles, Stronsay was dubbed ‘Star Island’ in Old Norse after its irregular, multi-pointed coastline. This fertile and flat isle of rich farmland with excellent grazing for cattle supports an array of rare plant species, including the blue-flowered oyster-plant. The Vat of Kirbister in the east, near Odin Bay, is a spectacular feature of a varied coastline, with a number of pristine beaches. The present population of 380 is mainly based in the northern village of Whitehall. Please see page 64
Tanera Mòr, Summer Isles Highland Isles Tanera Mòr is the largest of the Summer Isles, a cluster of scenic islets located off the coast of Ullapool. Atop a lush, grassy hill, the flat summit of Meall Mòr commands panoramic views over the surrounding area. The unique private post office issues its own stamps, and opens out of hours especially for our visits.
Ulva
Vatersay Outer Hebrides The most southerly of the inhabited Outer Isles, Vatersay is sliced in two by a narrow bar of sand and machair. With dramatic beaches, spectacular wildlife and a history dating from the Bronze Age, this beautiful isle has much to offer. The population of just over 70 residents is centred mainly around Vatersay town in the south. Please see pages 43, 52, 69 and 82
Yell, Shetland
Please see pages 46, 56 and 73
Tiree Inner Hebrides Enjoying long hours of sunshine, mild, fertile Tiree is the most westerly of the Inner Hebrides. This wild flower and birdlife haven, with shell-sand blown machair and surf-washed beaches, is much favoured by artists for its natural beauty and colour. Duns and brochs bear witness to its ancient history, while the white Thatched House Museum in Sandaig reveals its more recent crofting past.
Yell, Shetland
Vatersay
Northern Isles Inhabited since Neolithic times, the North Isle of Yell is the second-largest of the Shetland isles. Its coast is rocky in the west and low-lying and sandy in the east, with a central region of thick peat, the habitat of wild orchids. Noted for its otters, Yell is also home to a diverse bird population, including great and Arctic Skua at Lumbister RSPB Reserve in the north-west. Burravoe in the south-east is the main settlement. Please see page 63
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Greenock – Greenock
Inveraray Jail
Loch Goil Strachur Crarae Loch Ardkinglas Long e House n y Benmore F Botanic Garden ch o L Holy Loch
Tarbert
Doon the Watter
Portavadie Rothesay Rothesay Castle
BUTE
Tuesday 1st to Monday 7th March 2016
GREENOCK I N V E R C LY D E
GREAT CUMBRAE Cathedral of the Isles
6 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
As spring awakens, join us at the start of the
ARRAN Brodick
Firth of Clyde
2016 season exploring the Argyll lochs where we visit a castle, grand house, Victorian garden, jail and courtroom complex as well as Britain’s smallest cathedral.
From Greenock we sail to the beautiful island of Great Cumbrae, home to Britain’s smallest cathedral, the
Hebridean Highlights
Cathedral of the Isles, commissioned by the 6th Earl of
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Cathedral of the Isles
Glasgow, George Boyle. Sailing to the Isle of Bute we
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Inveraray Jail and Courtroom Complex
visit Rothesay Castle, recognised for its unusual circular
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Ardkinglas House
design and history dating back to the 13th century.
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Benmore Botanic Garden
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Loch Long and Long Goil
Our next port of call is the largest of the Clyde islands, Arran, where we enjoy a scenic tour of this once popular island retreat before cruising Loch Fyne and visiting Inveraray Jail, described as one of the best preserved jail and courtroom complexes in the world. Onwards to Ardkinglas House, built in 1907 and considered to be architect Sir Robert Lorimer’s masterpiece, this was the former home to Johnny Noble, founder of Loch Fyne Oysters. From here we stretch our legs in the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert before visiting Portavadie, a place of great contrast with its modern marina and which owes its sheltered anchorage to an ill-fated attempt in the 1970s to regenerate the area by building oil platforms.
Travel Plan – 6 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 1st March – Greenock - Embarkation. Wednesday 2nd March – Morning; Great Cumbrae – Cathedral of the Isles. Afternoon; Rothesay, Bute – Rothesay Castle. Thursday 3rd March – Morning; Brodick, Arran – Island tour. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Fyne. Friday 4th March – Morning; Crarae – Inveraray Jail. Afternoon; Strachur – Ardkinglas House. Saturday 5th March – Morning; Tarbert, Loch Fyne – Village walks. Afternoon; Portavadie – Walks ashore. Sunday 6th March – Morning; Holy Loch – Benmore Botanic Garden. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Long and Loch Goil. Monday 7th March – Greenock – Disembarkation.
At Holy Loch we discover Benmore Botanic Garden, with its avenue of Giant Redwoods and refurbished Victorian fernery, ahead of our last afternoon taking in the breathtaking scenery as we cruise Loch Long and Loch Goil running deep into the hills of Argyll.
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Main image: Hebridean Princess, Arran and Great Cumbrae from Largs; Images left to right: Ardkinglas House; Benmore Botanic Garden; Tarbert Castle 21
22 Main image: Brodick Bay, Arran; Images left to right: Northern Gannet; Cathedral of the Isles, Great Cumbrae; Rothesay Castle
Greenock – Greenock GREENOCK I N V E R C LY D E
BUTE Rothesay Rothesay Castle
GREAT CUMBRAE Cathedral of the Isles
Islands of the Clyde Monday 7th to Friday 11th March 2016 4 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner
ARRAN Brodick Island Tour
Firth of Clyde
This cruise also departs on 8th November 2016
The elegance of Hebridean Princess allows us to sample the beauty of the Clyde islands in comfort with this wonderful four night itinerary that takes us to Britain’s smallest cathedral and a privately owned
SANDA AILSA CRAIG ISLAND Site of Special Scientific Interest
island, designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Steaming from Greenock we sail towards Britain’s smallest cathedral on the delightful island of Great
Hebridean Highlights
Cumbrae. The cathedral was commissioned by the
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Cathedral of the Isles
6th Earl of Glasgow, George Boyle, designed by
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Sanda Island – Site of Special Scientific Interest
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Ailsa Craig
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Rothesay Castle
William Butterfield and completed in 1848. Arran is the largest of the Clyde islands and plays host to our next port of call where we enjoy a tour of this once popular island retreat.
Travel Plan – 4 nights Onwards to the privately owned Sanda Island,
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its
Monday 7th March – Greenock – Embarkation.
importance to both migrating and breeding birds and which is home to the first bird observatory on the west coast of Scotland. An afternoon sail allows us to circumnavigate the imposing island of Ailsa Craig, once quarried for its blue hone granite used in the making of curling stones, but now home to vast numbers of gannets and an increasing
Tuesday 8th March – Morning; Great Cumbrae – Cathedral of the Isles. Afternoon; Brodick, Arran – Island tour. Wednesday 9th March – Morning; Sanda Island – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Circumnavigate Ailsa Craig. Thursday 10th March – Morning; Bute – Island tour. Afternoon; Rothesay, Bute – Rothesay Castle. Friday 11th March – Greenock – Disembarkation.
population of puffins. Cruising to Bute we take a tour of this island of distinctly contrasting landscapes ahead of our last visit to Rothesay Castle, previously described as one of the most imposing castles in Scotland owing to its long standing history and unusual circular design.
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Scenic Cruising
Fy ne
Greenock – Greenock
Scenic Cruising Loch Goil
Loch Long
Lo ch
Holy Loch Argyll Mausoleum Historic Kilmun Loch Striven
GREENOCK
I N V E R C LY D E
Lochs of Argyll
Tarbert Tarbert Castle
BUTE
Rothesay Ascog Fernery
Friday 11th to Tuesday 15th March 2016 4 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner This cruise also departs on 12th November 2016
ARRAN
Firth of Clyde
Escape to the tranquillity of some of the most beautiful and peaceful lochs of Argyll with this four night cruise encompassing village walks, a restored fernery once forgotten by time and a mausoleum built to house the Dukes and Earls of Argyll.
Lying on the geographical fault of the Highland Line, the island of Bute is home to our first visit, Ascog Fernery.
Hebridean Highlights
Dating to around 1870 this Victorian fernery was
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Ascog Fernery
rediscovered and restored by its current owners and is
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Tarbert Castle
believed to house the oldest fern in the United
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Loch Striven and Loch Fyne
Kingdom – Todea Barbara or ‘the thousand year old fern’.
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Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum
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Loch Long and Loch Goil
An afternoon cruise continues through the narrow Kyles of Bute and Loch Striven; during World War II the loch was used for training the X-Craft midget submarine crews, deployed to attack the Tirpitz. Ashore at the fishing village of Tarbert, with its ruined castle once occupied by Robert the Bruce, we stretch our legs before enjoying a scenic cruise of Loch Fyne. Located on the shores of Holy Loch we visit Historic
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Friday 11th March – Greenock - Embarkation. Saturday 12th March – Morning; Rothesay, Bute – Ascog Fernery. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Striven and Kyles of Bute. Sunday 13th March – Morning; Tarbert, Loch Fyne – Village walks. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Fyne.
Mausoluem was constructed to house the remains of the
Monday 14th March – Morning; Holy Loch – Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Long and Loch Goil.
Dukes and Earls of Argyll, Chiefs of the Clan Campbell
Tuesday 15th March – Greenock – Disembarkation.
Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum. Built in 1790 the Argyll
and their families. Records indicate that Clan Campbell chiefs have been buried here since the 15th century and the last burial was that of the 10th Duke in 1949. Our final afternoon is spent cruising Loch Long and Loch Goil where we can enjoy the wonderful remoteness of these lochs, yet so close to the once industrial Clyde.
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Travel Plan – 4 nights
Main image: Ascog Victorian Fernery; Images left to right: Loch Fyne; Argyll Mausoleum at Kilmun; Tarbert 25
Greenock – Oban MULL KERRERA
OBAN Oban Distillery Ardfern Arduaine Garden
Spirit of Scotland
JURA
Rhu Glengoyne Distillery Hill House Loch Striven GREENOCK
Loch na Mile Jura Distillery ISLAY Bowmore Distillery Kildalton Cross
Tuesday 15th to Tuesday 22nd March 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Scotland is renowned for some of the best whiskies in the world and this new cruise will take us to some of the
BUTE
Lochranza Arran Distillery
Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
ARRAN
finest distilleries in the Western Isles, with the option of alternative visits to houses, castles and gardens. Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Greenock at the start of the cruise, and from Oban to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Greenock and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Oban to Greenock on the day of disembarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Greenock.
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Rothesay Rothesay Castle Bute Museum
Mull of Kintyre
Campbeltown Springbank Distillery SANDA ISLAND
Main image: Laphroaig Distillery, Islay; Images top to bottom: Sanda Lighthouse; Bowmore Distillery; Arduaine Garden
Leaving Greenock en route for Oban, our first visit is to the Glengoyne Distillery where whisky has been produced continuously since 1833. Alternatively, visit one of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's most famous works, Hill House at Helensburgh. Onwards to the Isle of Bute and the 13th century Rothesay Castle, famed for its circular design, then an afternoon tour
Guest Speaker Charles MacLean Charles MacLean, Master of the Quaich, has published over a dozen books about Scotch whisky. He acts as a consultant to the whisky industry, travels extensively talking about and tasting whisky, and recently achieved celebrity for playing himself in Ken Loach’s awardwinning film The Angels Share.
of the Isle of Arran beckons or, for whisky lovers, a tour of the Arran Distillery. The privately owned Sanda Island is designated as a Site
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
of Special Scientific Interest for its importance to both
Tuesday 15th March – Greenock – Embarkation.
migrating and breeding birds. At Campbeltown our
Wednesday 16th March – Morning; Rhu – Glengoyne Distillery or Hill House. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Striven.
third distillery is Springbank. After rounding the Mull of Kintyre, the whisky isle of Islay plays host to the first of two distillery visits, Laphroaig, famous for its peaty single malts. A guided tour to the historic Kildalton Cross may be preferred. Our exploration of the whisky isle continues with a tour of Bowmore, the first recorded distillery on Islay and founded over two centuries ago in 1779. Sailing to neighbouring Jura
Thursday 17th March – Morning; Rothesay, Bute – Rothesay Castle. Afternoon; Lochranza, Arran – Arran Distillery or Island tour. Friday 18th March – Morning; Sanda Island – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Campbeltown – Springbank Distillery. Saturday 19th March – Morning; Cruise the Mull of Kintyre. Afternoon; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery and Kildalton Cross. Sunday 20th March – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Bowmore Distillery. Afternoon; Loch na Mile, Jura – Jura Distillery or walks ashore.
we explore the Jura Distillery, before sailing further north to
Monday 21st March – Morning; Ardfern – Arduaine Garden. Afternoon; Kerrera – Oban Distillery or walks ashore.
visit the plantsman’s paradise of Arduaine Garden.
Tuesday 22nd March – Oban – Disembarkation.
With Oban almost upon us, we enjoy walks on the island of Kerrera or take the small boats to the Oban Distillery. 27
28 Main image: Iona Abbey; Images left to right: Plockton; Coll; Ardtornish Estate Gardens
Oban – Oban
SKYE
Plockton Kyle of Lochalsh Eilean Donan Castle
Armadale Clan Donald Centre
Easter in the Hebrides
RUM Kinloch Castle
Tuesday 22nd to Tuesday 29th March 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Experience the tranquility of the holy Isle of Iona and its restored abbey on Easter Sunday and marvel at one of the most photographed castles
MUCK
Loch Sunart
COLL Loch Tuath
ULVA Sheila’s Cottage
Inverie The Old Forge Pub
EIGG
Lochaline Ardtornish Estate Gardens
MULL
IONA Iona Abbey
KERRERA
OBAN
in Scotland – Eilean Donan, before exploring a modern day highland estate.
The Small Isle of Rum is our first stop on this Easter cruise, where we visit Kinloch Castle, once the summer
Hebridean Highlights G
Kinloch Castle
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Clan Donald Centre
At Armadale, located on the south east of Skye, we
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Eilean Donan Castle
explore the Clan Donald Centre and learn the history of
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Conservation Village of Plockton
this once powerful clan, before enjoying the picturesque
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The Old Forge Pub
conservation village of Plockton from Kyle of Lochalsh.
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Iona Abbey – Easter Sunday
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Ardtornish Estate Gardens
home of Lancastrian industrialists, the Bullough Family.
We tour the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which lay in ruins from 1719 until it was fully restored in 1932, before sailing to Inverie for an afternoon visit to The Old Forge, the remotest pub on the UK mainland.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 22nd March – Oban – Embarkation.
On Coll we explore on foot before steaming to the Isle of Ulva, home to Sheila’s cottage and one of Telford’s parliamentary churches. Our journey continues and on Easter Sunday morning, weather permitting, we land on the holy isle of Iona and join the Easter Sunday service at the restored abbey, followed by an afternoon cruise of Loch Sunart. During the last full day of our cruise we enjoy Ardtornish Estate Gardens on the Morvern peninsula, boasting over 25 acres of gardens and wonderful vistas of sea and mountain. Finally, we stretch our legs on the pretty island of Kerrera, which protects the entrance to Oban Bay.
Wednesday 23rd March – Morning; Loch Scresort, Rum, – Kinloch Castle. Afternoon; Armadale, Skye – Clan Donald Centre. Thursday 24th March – Morning; Cruise the Narrows and Kyle Rhea. Afternoon; Plockton – Walks ashore. Friday 25th March – Morning; Kyle of Lochalsh – Eilean Donan Castle. Afternoon; Inverie – The Old Forge Pub. Saturday 26th March – Morning; Isle of Coll – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Ulva – Sheila’s Cottage. Sunday 27th March – Morning; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Sunart. Monday 28th March – Morning; Lochaline – Ardtornish Estate Gardens. Afternoon; Kerrera – Walks ashore. Tuesday 29th March – Oban – Disembarkation.
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Oban – Oban MUCK
COLL
TIREE
Escape to the Highlands and Islands
Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum
Fort William Salen Ancient Sunart Oakwood Aonach Mòr Loch a’Choire Ballachulish Kingairloch Glencoe Estate Visitor MULL Centre Craignure Duart Castle OBAN Ardmaddy Castle Garden
IONA Iona Abbey
Tuesday 29th March to Tuesday 5th April 2016 Corryvreckan
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
COLONSAY Colonsay House Gardens
The Inner Hebrides form a wonderful tapestry of landscapes in the sheltered waters off the west coast of Scotland. Experience the diverse landscapes and amazing wildlife that make these islands unique.
From Oban we cruise Loch Linnhe to Fort William where we have the opportunity to ride the Gondola to Aonach
Hebridean Highlights
Mòr in the Nevis Range. At Ballachulish we wonder at
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Gondola Ride – Nevis Range
the majesty of Glencoe whilst discovering its tragic
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Kingairloch Estate
history at the visitor centre.
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Ardmaddy Castle Garden
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Colonsay House Gardens
Cross Loch Linnhe to Loch a’ Choire and Kingairloch
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Iona Abbey
Estate for a guided walk as we learn how the estate has
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Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum
adapted to modern times. Cruising south to Seil Sound
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Duart Castle
we visit Ardmaddy Castle Garden before sailing west through the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest whirlpool in the world, and on to the island of Colonsay and Colonsay House Gardens owned by the Strathcona family for over 100 years. On the sacred isle of Iona we explore the beautifully restored Benedictine Abbey and on Tiree we visit Hynish, where we learn about the construction of the Skerryvore Lighthouse, a legacy of remarkable 19th
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 29th March – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 30th March – Morning; Fort William – Aonach Mòr. Afternoon; Ballachulish – Glencoe Visitor Centre. Thursday 31st March – Morning; Loch a’Choire – Kingairloch Estate. Afternoon; Seil Sound – Ardmaddy Castle Garden. Friday 1st April – Morning; Cruise Corryvreckan. Afternoon; Colonsay – Colonsay House Gardens.
century engineering.
Saturday 2nd April – Morning; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Afternoon; Tiree – Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum.
After a stroll or perhaps an invigorating cycle on Coll
Sunday 3rd April – Morning; Coll – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Muck – Walks ashore.
we move on to the Small Isle of Muck, for a chance to stretch our legs and patronise the island’s renowned tea room. From Salen a walk in the ancient Sunart Oakwood is available followed by a sail of the Sound of Mull to Craignure, Isle of Mull, where we enjoy a guided tour of Duart Castle, ahead of our final farewell gala dinner on board Hebridean Princess.
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Travel Plan – 7 nights
Monday 4th April – Morning; Salen – Ancient Sunart Oakwood. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle. Tuesday 5th April – Oban – Disembarkation.
Main image: Ben Nevis and Fort William; Images left to right: Duart Castle, Mull; Gallanach Bay, Muck; Ancient Sunart Oakwood 31
32 Main image: Kinloch Lodge, Skye; Images left to right: Laphroaig Distillery, Islay; Three Chimneys Restaurant, Skye; Isle of Mull Cheese
Oban – Oban
Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
& DR I OD
I
NT
CANNA
SKYE Armadale Kinloch Lodge EIGG
ERES
MUCK
Flavours of Scotland Tuesday 5th to Tuesday 12th April 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners This cruise also departs on 4th October 2016
Scotland is rightly proud of its reputation for its
Kyle of Lochalsh
RUM
T
NK
FO
Three Chimneys Restaurant
COLL
Tobermory Isle of Mull Cheese
MULL Craignure STAFFA IONA Duart Castle Iona Abbey COLONSAY Colonsay Oysters and Honey
ERISKA Isle of Eriska Hotel OBAN
JURA
wonderful natural larder and those who produce mouth-watering creations. Join Hebridean Princess as we explore the wonderful culinary offerings of the Highlands and Islands.
Islay has a reputation for big peaty whiskies and from Port Ellen we visit one of the island’s famous distilleries,
ISLAY Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
Food & Drink Highlights
Laphroaig. On Colonsay meet the man who supplies
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Laphroaig Distillery
Hebridean Princess with oysters, but also learn about his
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Colonsay Oysters and Honey Farm
other passion – honey and the black tailed bees he keeps.
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Lunch and Cookery Demonstration – Kinloch Lodge
Columba’s Iona is our next port of call and as we sail
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Lunch – Three Chimneys Restaurant
towards Skye for our overnight anchorage, we cruise
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Isle of Mull Cheese
past the island of Staffa with its famous Fingal’s Cave.
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Lunch – Isle of Eriska Hotel
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Duart Castle – Champagne Reception
From Armadale a cookery demonstration and lunch at the Michelin starred Kinloch Lodge beckons, before a sail
Travel Plan – 7 nights
to Kyle of Lochalsh. A morning cruise takes us to Loch
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Dunvegan, where we visit Dunvegan Castle and enjoy
Tuesday 5th April – Oban – Embarkation.
lunch at the world renowned Three Chimneys Restaurant.
Wednesday 6th April – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery. Afternoon; Colonsay – Oysters and honey.
As we delight in the Small Isles we head south to Mull and our next port of call, the island capital of Tobermory. Here we visit Isle of Mull Cheese, a small, family farm, to learn how the local cheeses are made by hand. Our final morning is spent at the Isle of Eriska Hotel, situated on its own private island, where we enjoy lunch in the Michelin starred restaurant. We conclude our culinary adventure by returning to Mull for a Champagne reception at Duart Castle, hosted by Sir Lachlan Maclean, Chieftain of Clan Maclean.
Thursday 7th April – Morning; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Afternoon; Cruise past Staffa to Skye. Friday 8th April – Morning; Armadale, Skye – Cookery demonstration and lunch at Kinloch Lodge. Afternoon; Kyle of Lochalsh – Walks ashore. Saturday 9th April – Morning; Cruise east coast of Skye. Afternoon; Dunvegan, Skye – Lunch at Three Chimneys/Dunvegan Castle. Sunday 10th April – Morning; Cruise the Small Isles. Afternoon; Tobermory, Mull – Isle of Mull Cheese. Monday 11th April – Morning; Isle of Eriska – Lunch at Isle of Eriska Hotel. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle, Champagne reception. Tuesday 12th April – Oban – Disembarkation.
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Oban – Oban Trotternish peninsula RDEN GA
IN
Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle and Garden
Gairloch
Uig
Shieldaig
SKYE
TE R EST
Castles and Gardens of the North Tuesday 12th to Tuesday 19th April 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Little Minch
Plockton Attadale Gardens
RUM Kinloch Castle MUCK COLL
Cruise to several different lochs and sounds, an iconic castle, wonderful gardens, dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife; a cruise with something for everyone.
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Inverewe Garden
MULL
Kyle of Lochalsh Eilean Donan Castle Armadale Armadale Castle Gardens Inverie The Old Forge Pub
Lochaline Ardtornish Estate Gardens
Craignure Duart Castle
OBAN
Main image: Eilean Donan Castle; Images top to bottom: Inverewe Garden; Kinloch Castle, Rum; Armadale Castle Gardens
Our first island call is the Small Isle of Muck, where we stretch our legs before heading to Rum and Kinloch Castle, built in Annan sandstone by the Lancastrian industrialist, Sir George Bullough, as his country retreat. We continue along the south west coast of Skye to Loch Dunvegan and Dunvegan Castle, home to Clan MacLeod and a splendid location for observing the resident seal population. From Uig we enjoy a tour of the Trotternish peninsula. Sailing to Gairloch we explore the world renowned Inverewe Garden, situated on the same latitude as Hudson Bay in Canada and then, from Loch Torridon, to the remote mainland village of Shieldaig. Onwards to Loch Carron and Plockton where we have the opportunity to visit Attadale Gardens with its sunken garden. From our berth at Kyle of Lochalsh we travel to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which lay in ruins from 1719 until it was fully restored in 1932 after 20 years of work by John MacRae-Gilstrap. Returning to Skye, Armadale Castle Gardens beckon, home to the Clan Donald Centre and set in the grounds of the ruined castle. The afternoon is spent enjoying a drink at the Old Forge, the remotest public house on mainland Britain. Our final full day encompasses the Ardtornish Estate Gardens on the Morvern peninsula, followed by a farewell Champagne reception at Duart Castle, Mull, hosted by Sir Lachlan Maclean, Chieftain of Clan Maclean.
Garden Highlights G
Kinloch Castle
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Inverewe Garden
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Attadale Gardens
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Eilean Donan Castle
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Armadale Castle Gardens
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Ardtornish Estate Gardens
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Duart Castle – Champagne Reception
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 12th April – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 13th April – Morning; Muck – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Loch Scresort, Rum – Kinloch Castle. Thursday 14th April – Morning; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Afternoon; Uig, Skye – Tour Trotternish peninsula. Friday 15th April – Morning; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden. Afternoon; Shieldaig – Walks ashore. Saturday 16th April – Morning; Plockton – Attadale Gardens. Afternoon; Kyle of Lochalsh – Eilean Donan Castle. Sunday 17th April – Morning; Armadale, Skye – Armadale Castle Gardens. Afternoon; Inverie – The Old Forge Pub. Monday 18th April – Morning; Lochaline – Ardtornish Estate Gardens. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle, Champagne reception. Tuesday 19th April – Oban – Disembarkation.
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LEWIS HARRIS SHIANT ISLES
NORTH UIST
North Minch
Inner Sound SKYE SOUTH UIST Little Minch
So
un
d
CANNA BARRA PABBAY Sea of the RUM MINGULAY BERNERAY Hebrides MUCK So un do COLL
of
Sl ea t
BENBECULA
fM
TIREE
MULL
ull OBAN
JURA ISLAY
Oban – Oban
Springtime Surprise Tuesday 19th to Tuesday 26th April 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Join Hebridean Princess on this spring surprise as Captain Richard Heaton decides the itinerary on a daily basis, taking you to some of his favourite destinations. Although the itinerary is unknown, you will be assured of excellent service, exquisite cuisine and the understated elegance of Hebridean Princess.
Please note that it is planned for Captain Heaton to be Master on this cruise, however this may be changed without notice.
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Ullapool Ullapool Museum Corrieshalloch Gorge
Oban – Oban
Loch Ewe Inverewe Garden Gairloch Flowerdale Glen
G
A LK I N W
CR
U ISE
SKYE Portree Aros Experience RAASAY Loch Coruisk Loch Scavaig
Footloose through the Inner Isles
RUM Kinloch Castle
Tuesday 26th April to Tuesday 3rd May 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
MUCK
Inverie The Old Forge Pub Brocket Monument EIGG An Sgùrr
COLL Tobermory
Our first Footloose cruise of 2016 visits the diverse landscapes of the Inner Hebrides, offering a string of
MULL
energising walks and fascinating visits. Whether enjoying a
OBAN
short tranquil stroll or a brisker walk, this cruise of mainland and island highlights offers the best of both worlds.
The Small Isle of Rum is our first stop allowing us to visit Kinloch Castle or walk with our guides, before sailing to Loch Scavaig, Isle of Skye, for an afternoon of walks and
Footloose Walking Highlights G
Rum – Walks and Strolls
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Loch Coruisk – Walks and Strolls
Strolling briefly on the island of Raasay we return to
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Raasay – Walks and Strolls
Skye where, from Portree, there is the opportunity to
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Loch Ewe – Full Day Walk Programme
enjoy either the Aros Experience or walk to the quiet
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Slattadale – Full Day Walk Programme
village of Torvaig.
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Inverie – Brocket Monument
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Eigg – An Sgùrr
strolls at stunning Loch Coruisk.
At Gairloch the picturesque Flowerdale Glen beckons before arriving at Loch Ewe, famous for its garden at Inverewe, where we land directly into the grounds. Walkers embrace a full days walking. From our berth at Ullapool we explore the award-winning museum before discovering the dramatic box canyon of Corrieshalloch Gorge. From Slattadale walkers engage in another full day of walks. After cruising the Inner Sound we arrive at Inverie and enjoy a drink at The Old Forge Pub, with the option to trek to the Brocket Monument, sitting high on a rocky knoll. Our final day leads us to the Small Isle of Eigg, dominated by the pitchstone ridge of An Sgùrr and can only be tackled by the most intrepid of our walkers. The last afternoon is spent in colourful Tobermory on Mull for some last minute shopping.
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Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 26th April – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 27th April – Morning; Loch Scresort, Rum – Kinloch Castle or glen walk. Afternoon; Loch Scavaig, Skye – Walks at Loch Coruisk. Thursday 28th April – Morning; Raasay – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Portree, Skye – Aros or walks at Torvaig. Friday 29th April – Morning; Gairloch – Flowerdale Glen or full day walk. Afternoon; Loch Ewe – Inverewe Garden. Saturday 30th April – Morning; Ullapool – Ullapool Museum or full day walk. Afternoon; Ullapool – Corrieshalloch Gorge. Sunday 1st May – Morning; Cruise the Inner Sound. Afternoon; Inverie – The Old Forge Pub or walks to Brocket Monument. Monday 2nd May – Morning; Eigg – Walks ashore or walk An Sgùrr. Afternoon; Tobermory, Mull – Walks ashore. Tuesday 3rd May – Disembarkation in Oban.
Main image: An Sg첫rr, Eigg; Images left to right: White Tailed Eagle, Raasay; Loch Scavaig, Skye; Ullapool 39
Oban – Oban
Carloway Broch LEWIS Callanish Stones Stornoway The Lews Castle Minch Museum Tarbert St Clement’s Church SHIANT HARRIS ISLES Inverewe Garden Gairloch SKYE
Westward to Harris and Lewis Tuesday 3rd to Tuesday 10th May 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners This cruise also departs on 20th September 2016
Shieldaig RAASAY Armadale Clan Donald Centre CANNA RUM
Plockton Attadale Gardens Kyle Rhea
EIGG
Join Hebridean Princess as she explores the Inner and Outer Hebrides, including the Small Isle of Eigg and larger neighbour of Skye, along with the Outer Isles of Harris and Lewis and the uninhabited Shiants.
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COLL
So
un
do
fM
ull MULL
OBAN
Main image: Callanish Stones, Lewis; Images top to bottom: Raasay; Guillemots, Shiant Isles; Luskentyre beach, Harris
Departing from Oban and venturing round Ardnamurchan, we spend the morning cruising north through Kyle Rhea and under
Hebridean Highlights G
Tweed Weaving Demonstration
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Shiant Isles
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Callanish Standing Stones and Carloway Broch
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Lews Castle Museum
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Inverewe Garden
Located on the edge of the Outer Hebrides are the uninhabited
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Conservation Village of Shieldaig
Shiant Isles, where we intend to land by beach landing craft to
G
Attadale Gardens
the Skye Bridge to the island of Raasay for an afternoon of strolls. Arriving at Tarbert on the Isle of Harris we enjoy an island tour including a tweed weaving demonstration and a call at the ancient church of St Clement’s, built in the 1500s.
admire the thousands of breeding seabirds including puffins. Returning to the Outer Isles we journey to the famous standing stones at Callanish on Lewis, the 2,000 year old Carloway Broch and the more recently constructed Lews Castle Museum. Cruising The Minch to Gairloch on the mainland we appreciate the delights of Inverewe Garden, a vision of Osgood Mackenzie and set on a barren bluff. Continuing to the conservation village of Shieldaig we stretch our legs ashore, before sailing to Loch Carron where we visit Attadale Gardens with its Japanese Water Garden and collection of sculpture. Onwards to Armadale and the Clan Donald Centre which
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 3rd May – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 4th May – Morning; Cruise Kyle Rhea and The Narrows. Afternoon; Raasay – Walks ashore. Thursday 5th May – Morning; Tarbert, Harris – Island tour including St Clement’s Church, Rodel. Afternoon; Shiant Isles – Beach landing. Friday 6th May – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch. Afternoon; Stornoway, Lewis – Lews Castle Museum. Saturday 7th May – Morning; Cruise The Minch. Afternoon; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden. Sunday 8th May – Morning; Shieldaig – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Plockton – Attadale Gardens.
depicts the history of this once powerful Clan and then our
Monday 9th May – Morning; Armadale, Skye – Clan Donald Centre. Afternoon; Eigg – Walks Ashore.
final port of call is the Small Isle of Eigg, now owned by its
Tuesday 10th May – Oban – Disembarkation.
community following a buyout in 1997. 41
42 Main image: Beasdaire, Berneray; Images left to right: View from the Uists; Kisimul Castle, Barra; Vatersay
Oban – Oban
HARRIS NORTH Barpa Langass UIST Pobull Fhinn Lochmaddy BENBECULA
Voyage to the Outer Isles Tuesday 10th to Tuesday 17th May 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners This cruise also departs on 27th September 2016
SOUTH UIST Lochboisdale
the inner Hebridean island of Canna, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, to the Outer Isles of Barra, Vatersay, the Uists and the remote
Loch Harport Talisker Distillery
BARRA Castlebay VATERSAY BISHOP’S ISLES
Wonder at the contrasts of Scotland’s isles, from
SKYE Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
CANNA RUM Sea of the Hebrides
EIGG
MUCK Glenmore Bay COLL Ardnamurchan Distillery TIREE MULL Skerryvore Craignure Lighthouse Duart Castle OBAN Museum
Bishop’s Isles.
On Coll we explore on foot or perhaps take one of the ship’s bicycles ashore before sailing to Tiree
Hebridean Highlights
to learn about the construction of the Skerryvore
G
Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum
Lighthouse at Hynish.
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Bishop’s Isles
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Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn
Crossing the Sea of The Hebrides we sail to the Bishop’s
G
Dunvegan Castle
Isles at the very southern tip of the Outer Hebrides for
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Talisker Distillery
a beach landing, ahead of a relaxing sail to Castlebay
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Ardnamurchan Distillery
for walks on the most southerly inhabited of the Outer
G
Duart Castle
Isles, Vatersay. From Lochboisdale we tour South Uist, Benbecula
Travel Plan – 7 nights
and North Uist, visiting Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn,
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
including a picnic ashore, before re-joining Hebridean
Tuesday 10th May – Oban – Embarkation.
Princess in Lochmaddy.
Wednesday 11th May – Morning; Coll – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Tiree – Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum.
Sailing south east we head to Dunvegan Castle on Skye,
Thursday 12th May – Morning; Bishop’s Isles – Beach landing. Afternoon; Castlebay, Barra – Walks on Vatersay.
which has been the home of the Chieftain of Clan MacLeod for 800 years and boasts wonderful gardens. Continuing along the south west coast of Skye to Loch Harport we visit the island’s only legal distillery, Talisker. We steam to the Small Isle of Canna, given to the National Trust for Scotland by the great Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell in 1981, before taking strolls on the delightful Isle of Muck.
Friday 13th May – Morning; Lochboisdale, South Uist – Tour of the Uists. Afternoon; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Saturday 14th May – Morning; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Afternoon; Loch Harport, Skye – Talisker Distillery. Sunday 15th May – Morning; Canna – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Muck – Walks ashore.
Our final full day allows us to enjoy the Ardnamurchan
Monday 16th May – Morning; Glenmore Bay, Ardnamurchan Distillery. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle.
Distillery from Glenmore Bay, promoted as Scotland’s
Tuesday 17th May – Oban – Disembarkation.
newest, greenest and most westerly mainland distillery. Our voyage concludes at Duart Castle, home to Clan Maclean.
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Oban – Oban OBAN Craobh Haven Arduaine Garden JURA
Tayvallich
Northern Ireland Explorer Cushendun
Tuesday 17th to Tuesday 24th May 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Relax and enjoy the elegance and comfort of Hebridean Princess as we sail south on our exploration or Northern Ireland in the presence of
Ballycastle Giant’s Causeway Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Belfast Titanic Exhibition Strangford Lough
Glenarm Glemarm Castle
Bangor Mount Stewart House
Derrymore House
our National Trust speaker, Sarah Staniforth. Warrenpoint
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Carlingford Lough
Main image: Giant’s Causeway, Ballycastle; Images top to bottom: Glenarm Castle, Walled Garden; Titanic Exhibition, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Departing from Oban we steam south through the North Channel, separating Kintyre on the Scottish mainland and the Antrim coast. Arriving at our first port of call of Glenarm we visit Glenarm Castle, the 400 year old home of the Earls of Antrim, with its glorious walled garden. Sailing south to Bangor, Mount Stewart beckons where we visit the house and gardens, enjoying lunch ashore, before re-joining the ship in Strangford Lough. Venturing to Carlingford Lough, a sea inlet forming part of the border between Northern Ireland and Eire, we explore the National Trust property of Derrymore House.
Guest Speaker Sarah Staniforth Sarah worked for the National Trust from 19852014, most recently as Museums and Collections Director. She read chemistry at Oxford University and studied paintings conservation at the Courtauld Institute of Art. She is President of the International Institute for Conservation and her professional interests include: buildings and collections conservation and museum and heritage management.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 17th May – Oban – Embarkation.
Turning north we head to Belfast and spend the day exploring this wonderful city, including a visit to Queens Island, the birth place of The Titanic. Following a cruise of the delightful Antrim Coast, a beach landing will allow us to explore the quaint and Cornish styled Cushendun village, before cruising to Ballycastle. From here we will discover the famous Giant’s Causeway and The National Trust’s Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, built by fisherman over 350 years ago and suspended 100 feet above sea level. Returning to Scotland we spend time ashore at picturesque
Wednesday 18th May – Morning; Cruise The North Channel. Afternoon; Glenarm, Antrim – Glenarm Castle. Thursday 19th May – Morning; Bangor, County Down – Mount Stewart House. Afternoon; Strangford Lough – Re-join ship. Friday 20th May – Morning; Warrenpoint, Carlingford Lough – Derrymore House. Afternoon; Cruise east coast of Northern Ireland. Saturday 21st May – Morning; Belfast – Titanic Exhibition. Afternoon; Cruise Antrim Coast. Sunday 22nd May – Morning; Cushendun, Antrim – Beach landing. Afternoon; Ballycastle – Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant’s Causeway.
Tayvallich before ending our journey with a visit, from our
Monday 23rd May – Morning; Tayvallich – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Craobh Haven – Arduaine Garden.
anchorage at Craobh Haven, to the National Trust for Scotland’s
Tuesday 24th May – Oban – Disembarkation.
Arduaine Garden. 45
HANDA Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserve Carloway Broch Callanish Stones Stornoway LEWIS
In t
ere st
Loch Ewe The Minch
Dunvegan Castle
Call of the Wild Tuesday 24th to Tuesday 31st May 2016
TANERA MÒR (Summer Isles)
SHIANT ISLES
& Wil d re e lif
Nat u
Oban – Oban
Little Minch
SKYE Loch Dunvegan Seal Colony Loch Scavaig
Inverewe Inverewe Garden
Kyle Rhea
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners CANNA RUM Red Deer Search
Experience the great wilderness of the north-west coast of Scotland as we visit the seabird colonies of Handa and the Shiant Isles, make a beach landing to observe red deer and go in search of eagles on the Isle of Mull.
Setting sail from Oban we head to our anchorage at Loch Scavaig from where we wonder at the awe-inspiring Black Cuillins in the unforgettable
EIGG
Sea of the Hebrides So COLL un Tobermory d of MULL M ul Mull Eagle Watch l Craignure OBAN Duart Castle
Nature & Wildlife Highlights G
Inverewe Garden
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Tanera Mòr
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Handa – Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserve
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Shiant Isles
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Dunvegan Castle and Seal Colony
On Handa, a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve, we go
G
Isle of Rum Red Deer
ashore to observe the magnificent seabird cliffs before
G
Mull Eagle Watch
location of Loch Coruisk. Venturing to Loch Ewe we land directly into the grounds of Inverewe Garden before heading to Tanera Mòr, the largest of the Summer Isles.
cruising The Minch to Stornoway, on Lewis, for our tour of the Callanish Standing Stones and Carloway Broch. From the comfort of Hebridean Princess admire the
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
large number of seabirds nesting on the cliffs of the
Tuesday 24th May – Oban – Embarkation.
Shiant Isles, ahead of continuing along the west coast
Wednesday 25th May – Morning; Loch Scavaig, Skye – Walks at Loch Coruisk. Afternoon; Cruise the Sound of Sleat.
of Skye to Dunvegan Castle to observe the resident seal population.
Thursday 26th May – Morning; Loch Ewe – Inverewe Garden. Afternoon; Tanera Mòr, Summer Isles – Walks ashore.
Steaming further south we visit the largest of the Small
Friday 27th May – Morning; Handa – Seabird Cliffs. Afternoon; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch.
Isles, Rum, and after a beach landing we go in search of the island’s renowned red deer. During our last morning we head to the Mull Eagle Watch and join a ranger-led visit to discover the island’s majestic white-tailed eagles. Prior to our final gala dinner on board, the imposing Duart Castle beckons, home of the current Chieftain of the Clan, Sir Lachlan Maclean.
Saturday 28th May – Morning; Shiant Isles – Cruise the Seabird Cliffs. Afternoon; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle and seal colony. Sunday 29th May – Morning; Cruise south west coast of Skye. Afternoon; Kilmory Bay, Rum – Beach landing and red deer. Monday 30th May – Morning; Tobermory, Mull – Mull Eagle Watch. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle. Tuesday 31st May – Oban – Disembarkation.
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Main image: Guillemot, Handa; Images left to right: Grey Seal, Skye; White Tailed Eagle, Mull; Red Deer, Rum 47
48 Main image: Northern Gannets, St Kilda; Images left to right: Carloway Broch, Lewis; Pabbay from Berneray; Dunvegan Castle, Skye
Oban – Oban
Carloway Broch Callanish Stones
Stornoway
LEWIS
SHIANT ISLES Beach Landing
HARRIS
ST KILDA Hirta
Lochmaddy NORTH UIST BENBECULA
St Kilda, Islands on the Edge Tuesday 31st May to Tuesday 7th June 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
t
Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
SOUTH UIST
SKYE
ERISKAY BARRA
This is the first of two visits in 2016 to the mysterious archipelago of St Kilda, the United Kingdom’s only
BISHOP’S ISLES Beach Landing
double UNESCO World Heritage Site, lying approximately 120 miles off the west coast of mainland Scotland and where man lived in the harshest of
Sea of the Hebrides
RUM MUCK
EIGG
So un COLL d of Tobermory M Isle of TIREE ul l Mull Cheese MULL OBAN
conditions up until 1930 – a true adventure.
We start our voyage to the furthest reaches of St Kilda by crossing the Sea of The Hebrides and, weather
Hebridean Highlights
permitting, land by beach boats on one of the Bishop’s
G
Bishop’s Isles
Isles at the very southern tip of the Outer Hebrides.
G
Double UNESCO World Heritage Site of St Kilda
Sailing overnight to St Kilda, we arrive early morning
G
The Uists
to cruise the seabird colonies between the island of
G
Callanish Standing Stones and Carloway Broch
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Shiant Isles
G
Dunvegan Castle
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Isle of Mull Cheese
Boreray and Stac Lee, ahead of anchoring in Village Bay. Weather permitting we land on the main island of Hirta, where the 19th century village is preserved just as it was when abandoned 86 years previously. Following an afternoon steam to the Outer Isles we land
Travel Plan – 7 nights
on Eriskay for a tour of the Uists, enjoying a Hebridean
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
picnic ashore. Continuing north to Stornoway we explore
Tuesday 31st May – Oban – Embarkation.
Lewis, including the standing stones at Callanish and the 2,000 year old Carloway Broch.
Wednesday 1st June – Morning; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides. Afternoon; Bishop’s Isles – Beach landing.
A beach landing on the uninhabited Shiant Isles allows
Thursday 2nd June – Morning; St Kilda – Village Bay, Hirta. Afternoon; Cruise towards Barra.
us to admire the myriad of breeding seabirds, including the colourful puffins. Onward to Dunvegan Castle on Skye, which has been the seat of the Clan MacLeod for 800 years and boasts wonderful gardens. After stretching our legs on the Isle of Muck we take a tour of Isle of Mull Cheese, the only dairy farm on the island.
Friday 3rd June – Morning; Eriskay – Tour the Uists. Afternoon; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Re-join ship. Saturday 4th June – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch. Afternoon; Shiant Isles – Beach landing. Sunday 5th June – Morning; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Afternoon; Cruise south coast of Skye. Monday 6th June – Morning; Muck – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Tobermory, Mull – Isle of Mull Cheese. Tuesday 7th June – Oban – Disembarkation.
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Oban – Oban SKYE
RDEN GA
IN
TE R EST
Armadale Armadale Castle Gardens CANNA RUM EIGG
Kyle of Lochalsh Attadale Gardens
MUCK
Scotland in Colour Tuesday 7th to Tuesday 14th June 2016
COLL Lip na Cloiche Garden
Lochaline Ardtornish Estate Gardens MULL
OBAN
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners Craobh Haven Arduaine Garden
The mild climate of north-west Scotland is influenced by the warm North Atlantic Drift offshore, giving rise
COLONSAY Colonsay House Gardens
Ormsary Ormsary House Gardens GIGHA Achamore Gardens
to world class gardens. All are unique, not only for their magnificent collections, but for the wild, untamed beauty in which they stand.
Not normally open to the public, our first port of call is Ormsary on Loch Caolisport where we take a privileged peek at Lady Lithgow’s garden, ahead of sailing to the small island of Gigha with its famous Achamore Gardens, designed by Sir James Horlick. Turning north we sail to Ardmaddy Castle Gardens, a spectacular setting shielded by mature woodlands to
Ardmaddy Castle Gardens
JURA
Guest Speaker Jim Gardiner Jim is the Chief Curator of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardens and has been based at Wisley for over twenty years. Before that he was Curator at the Hillier Gardens and Arboretum. His primary interest is in woody plants, in particular Magnolias, on which he has written two books, ‘Magnolias, their Care and Cultivation’ and ‘Magnolias, A Gardener’s Guide’.
the north and protected from the Atlantic winds by the elevated castle. From our anchorage at Craobh Haven we discover the National Trust for Scotland’s Arduaine Garden.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 7th June – Oban – Embarkation.
On to the Isle of Colonsay and Colonsay House Gardens, owned by the Strathcona family for over 100 years. From here we head for the west coast of Mull and the made garden in an extremely remote location.
Thursday 9th June – Morning; Seil Sound – Ardmaddy Castle Gardens. Afternoon; Craobh Haven – Arduaine Garden.
Our berth at Kyle of Lochalsh allows us to venture to
Friday 10th June – Morning; Colonsay – Colonsay House Gardens. Afternoon; Cruise west coast of Mull.
hidden gem of Lip na Cloiche Garden, a private and self
Attadale Gardens before we discover Armadale Castle Gardens, where magnificent trees, some almost 200 years old, tower above stunning carpets of orchids
Saturday 11th June – Morning; Loch Tuath, Mull – Lip na Cloiche Garden. Afternoon; Cruise the Small Isles.
and wildflowers.
Sunday 12th June – Morning; Kyle of Lochalsh – Attadale Gardens. Afternoon; Armadale, Skye – Armadale Castle Gardens.
Steaming around the most westerly point of mainland
Monday 13th June – Morning; Cruise round Ardnamurchan. Afternoon; Lochaline – Ardtornish Estate Gardens.
Britain, Ardnamurchan, Ardtornish Estate Gardens on
Tuesday 14th June – Oban – Disembarkation.
the Morvern peninsula await, where we embrace the contrast between long vistas across sea, loch and open hill and closer views of wooded glen, river and waterfall.
50
Wednesday 8th June – Morning; Ormsary – Ormsary House Gardens. Afternoon; Gigha – Achamore Gardens.
Main image: Lip na Cloiche Garden; Images left to right: Armadale Castle Gardens; Ormsary House Gardens; Attadale Gardens 51
Butt of Lewis
Oban – Oban
Callanish Stones Stornoway Walks Ashore LEWIS Tarbert St Clement’s Church HARRIS SHIANT ISLES Beach Landing NORTH UIST Barpa Langass Pobull Fhinn Lochmaddy
G
A LK I N W
CR
U ISE
Footloose in the Outer Isles
BENBECULA SOUTH UIST Lochboisdale
Little Minch
SKYE
Tuesday 14th to Tuesday 21st June 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
The second of our 2016 Footloose itineraries takes us to the Western Isles with some old favourites
ERISKAY CANNA Prince’s Bay BARRA RUM Castlebay VATERSAY EIGG Walks Ashore Sea of the BISHOP’S ISLES Hebrides Beach Landing COLL
So
and several new walks, combined with ancient monuments, imposing castles and beach landings.
52
MUCK Walks Ashore
TIREE
un
do
fM ull MULL
OBAN
Main image: Prince’s Bay, Eriskay; Images top to bottom: Callanish Stones, Lewis; St Clement’s Church, Rodel; Puffin, Shiant Isles
Venturing north-west we head to Barra for walks on the most southerly inhabited of the Outer Isles, Vatersay; alternatively there is the opportunity to visit the former Macneil stronghold of Kisimul Castle, guarding Castlebay.
Footloose Walking Highlights G
Vatersay – Walks and Strolls Ashore
G
Eriskay and Prince’s Bay – Walks and Strolls Ashore
The Bishop’s isles are situated at the southerly tip of the Outer Hebrides where, weather permitting, we explore after
G
Bishop’s Isles – Beach Landing
making a beach landing. Afterwards we stretch our legs on
G
The Uists – Full Day Walking Programme
the Isle of Eriskay, including Prince’s Bay where Bonnie
G
Lewis – Full Day Walking Programme
Prince Charlie first set foot on British soil.
G
Shiant Isles – Beach Landing
G
Muck – Walks and Strolls Ashore
From Lochboisdale we tour Benbecula and the Uists, visiting Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn; for walkers there will be a
Travel Plan – 7 nights
full day walking programme. On Lewis a further full day of
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
walks is planned, or there is the option to visit the famous
Tuesday 14th June – Oban – Embarkation.
Callanish Standing Stones and the Butt of Lewis in the north.
Wednesday 15th June – Morning; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides. Afternoon; Castlebay, Barra – Walks on Vatersay.
Sailing into The Minch, our second beach landing will be on
Thursday 16th June – Morning; Bishop’s Isles – Beach landing. Afternoon; Eriskay – Walks at Prince’s Bay.
the Shiants where we marvel at the mighty cliffs festooned with seabirds and puffins. Arriving at Tarbert on the Isle of Harris we tour the island and call at the ancient church of St Clement’s, built in the 1500s. Our final day will be spent cruising the west coast of Skye followed by walks on the Small Isle of Muck, edged by sandy beaches and scattered with wild flowers, together with an abundance of wildlife.
Friday 17th June – Morning; Lochboisdale – Full day walk or Tour the Uists. Afternoon; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Saturday 18th June – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Full day walk or Callanish Stones. Afternoon; Stornoway, Lewis – Butt of Lewis. Sunday 19th June – Morning; Shiant Isles – Beach landing. Afternoon; Tarbert, Harris – Walks or St Clement’s Church, Rodel. Monday 20th June – Morning; Cruise west coast of Skye. Afternoon; Muck – Walks ashore. Tuesday 21st June – Oban – Disembarkation. 53
54 Main image: Laxey Wheel; Images left to right: Peel Castle; House of Manannan; Castletown
Oban – Oban KERRERA
JURA Loch na Mile Craighouse ISLAY Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
Manx Heritage
OBAN
Tayvallich
RATHLIN ISLAND RSPB Reserve
Tuesday 21st to Tuesday 28th June 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Blessed with an extensive coastline, stunning natural landscapes and unspoilt beaches, the Isle of Man has a unique charm and
Strangford Lough
character. This sea-bound kingdom has a diverse culture and fascinating heritage which stretches back thousands of years. Our voyage captures the magic and mystery of three separate kingdoms, all linked by their Celtic and Gaelic ancestry.
Islay has a reputation for peaty whiskies and from Port Ellen we visit one of the island’s famous distilleries,
Bangor Grey Abbey House
ISLE OF MAN Peel Douglas House of Manannan Laxey Wheel Peel Castle Port St Mary Castletown
Hebridean Highlights G
Laphroaig Distillery
G
Grey Abbey House
After cruising the North Channel we arrive at Bangor
G
House of Manannan
from where we visit Grey Abbey House, the Montgomery
G
Peel Castle
family home since 1607.
G
Laxey Wheel
G
RSPB Reserve – Rathlin Island
G
Tayvallich
Laphroaig.
From beautiful Strangford Lough we head for the Isle of Man for our two day exploration of the island. At the House of Manannan, the Island’s mythological sea god welcomes us to his fascinating Kingdom; at Peel Castle
Travel Plan – 7 nights
we stroll the extensive grounds and climb to the top of
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
the Gatehouse Tower to admire the panoramic views.
Tuesday 21st June – Oban – Embarkation.
From the quaint streets of Port St Mary we head to
Wednesday 22nd June – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery. Afternoon; Cruise the North Channel.
Douglas before taking horse drawn carriages and the electric train to the famous Laxey Wheel, built in 1854 to pump water from Glen Mooar, part of the Great Laxey Mines industrial complex. As we return north, the rare and untamed beauty of the RSPB bird reserve of Rathlin Island awaits our arrival, on Jura we anchor in Loch Na Mile and go ashore at the
Thursday 23rd June – Morning; Bangor, County Down – Grey Abbey House. Afternoon; Strangford Lough – Re-join ship. Friday 24th June – Morning; Peel, Isle of Man – House of Manannan and Peel Castle. Afternoon; Port St Mary, Isle of Man – Castletown. Saturday 25th June – Morning; Douglas, Isle of Man – Laxey Wheel. Afternoon; Cruise North.
island’s only settlement, Craighouse.
Sunday 26th June – Morning; Rathlin Island – Bird Reserve. Afternoon; Loch Na Mile, Jura – Craighouse.
After a cruise of Loch Sween the picturesque village of Tayvallich beckons, before we commence our return to
Monday 27th June – Morning; Tayvallich – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Kerrera – Walks ashore.
Oban with an afternoon on the island of Kerrera, keeping
Tuesday 28th June – Oban – Disembarkation.
guard over Oban Bay.
55
Black Houses Callanish Stones
Oban – Oban
LEWIS Stornoway Lews Castle Museum TANERA MÒR (Summer Isles) HARRIS Ullapool Corrieshalloch Gorge Gairloch NORTH Inverewe UIST Garden BENBECULA Shieldaig SOUTH SKYE UIST ERISKAY Loch Coruisk Loch Scavaig CANNA BARRA Castlebay RUM Sea of the Hebrides EIGG Kisimul Castle So un COLL d of M ul TIREE l OBAN MULL
t
ORLD W H
ER
I TA G
E
ST KILDA Hirta
The Hebridean Outposts of St Kilda Tuesday 28th June to Tuesday 5th July 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
St Kilda is one of the most atmospheric locations you can visit without leaving the British Isles. When you add spectacular gardens, Neolithic standing stones and historic castles this is surely an experience of a lifetime.
Leaving Oban we sail north to our anchorage at Loch Scavaig, from where we marvel at the awe-inspiring
Hebridean Highlights
scenery of the Black Cuillin. Later we cruise the Inner
G
Conservation Village of Shieldaig
Sound to explore the conservation village of Shieldaig,
G
Inverewe Garden
before travelling onwards to Sir Osgood Mackenzie’s
G
Corrieshalloch Gorge
Inverewe Garden.
G
Tanera Mòr
G
Callanish Standing Stones and Black Houses
G
Double UNESCO World Heritage Site of St Kilda
G
Kisimul Castle
From Ullapool we admire the dramatic box canyon of Corrieshalloch Gorge and sail to Tanera Mòr, the largest of the Summer Isles which boasts a unique, private post office which issues its own stamps, one of which features Hebridean Princess.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Crossing The Minch to Stornoway we tour the Callanish
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Standing Stones and discover past Western Isles life with
Tuesday 28th June – Oban – Embarkation.
a visit to the peat fire burning Black Houses and the recently opened Lews Castle Museum.
Wednesday 29th June – Morning; Loch Scavaig, Skye – Walks at Loch Coruisk. Afternoon; Cruise Inner Sound.
Steaming overnight we sail to St Kilda. Arriving early
Thursday 30th June – Morning; Shieldaig – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden.
morning we cruise between Stac Lee and Boreray, home to around 60,000 breading pairs of northern gannets, before circumnavigating the main island of Hirta to Village Bay, where the 19th century village lies abandoned after the remaining 36 inhabitants were
Saturday 2nd July – Morning; Stornoway – Callanish Stones and Black Houses. Afternoon; Stornoway – Lews Castle Museum.
evacuated at their own request in 1930.
Sunday 3rd July – Morning; St Kilda – Village Bay, Hirta. Afternoon; Cruise towards Barra.
An afternoon sail leads us to Barra and Kisimul Castle,
Monday 4th July – Morning; Castlebay, Barra – Kisimul Castle. Afternoon; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides.
the only significant surviving medieval castle in the Western Isles, seat of the Chiefs of Clan Macneil. Our Hebridean Princess adventure draws to a close cruising the Sea of the Hebrides to Oban.
56
Friday 1st July – Morning; Ullapool – Corrieshalloch Gorge. Afternoon; Tanera Mòr, Summer Isles – Island Post Office.
Tuesday 5th July – Oban – Disembarkation.
Main image: Village Bay, Hirta, St Kilda; Images left to right: Inverewe Garden; Kisimul Castle, Barra; Corrieshalloch Gorge 57
58 Main image: Shona heading towards Fingal’s Cave, Staffa; Images left to right: Tobermory; Laphroaig Distillery, Islay; Duart Castle
AL SIC M
IN
IC US
CLA S
Oban – Oban
TER E
Salen Ancient Sunart Oakwood
Tobermory COLL
Lochaline Ardtornish Estate Gardens
ST
Hebridean Symphony Tuesday 5th to Tuesday 12th July 2016
MULL STAFFA Fingal’s Cave
Craignure Duart Castle IONA Iona Abbey
OBAN
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Explore the Inner Hebrides combining wonderful
COLONSAY Colonsay House Gardens
Tayvallich JURA
vistas with live classical music in some of the most inspiring locations imaginable.
Loch na Mile Craighouse ISLAY Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
Leaving Oban we stretch our legs at the pretty fishing village of Tayvallich before venturing to the Isle of Jura
Hebridean Highlights G
Laphroaig Distillery
G
Concert from Musicians of Cantilena Festival
single malt whisky and there is the opportunity to visit
G
Colonsay House Gardens
Laphroaig, one of the island’s renowned distilleries,
G
Iona Abbey and Fingal’s Cave
followed by an on-board concert from musicians of the
G
Young Musicians of the Mendelssohn on Mull Festival
G
Ardtornish Estate Gardens
G
Duart Castle
and its only settlement of Craighouse. The neighbouring island of Islay is famous for its peaty
Cantilena Festival. Sailing the Sound of Islay, the narrow stretch of water separating the islands of Islay and Jura, we explore Colonsay House Gardens and the Benedictine abbey
Travel Plan – 7 nights
on the holy isle of Iona.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Landing by local boat on the island of Staffa we explore the magical Fingal’s Cave; formed by a series of basalt columns it has been the inspiration for poets, painters and composers including Mendelssohn and Turner. Our evening is spent being enlightened at a classical music lecture from Richard Jeffcoat from the Mendelssohn on Mull Festival, whilst alongside at Tobermory. Crossing the Sound of Mull, we go ashore at Salen to stroll in the Ancient Sunart Oakwood and from Lochaline we visit Ardtornish Estate Gardens on the Morven
Tuesday 5th July – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 6th July – Morning; Tayvallich – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Loch na Mile, Jura – Craighouse. Thursday 7th July – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery. Afternoon; Classical concert on board. Friday 8th July – Morning; Colonsay – Colonsay House Gardens. Afternoon; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Saturday 9th July – Morning; Isle of Staffa – Fingal’s Cave. Afternoon; Tobermory, Isle of Mull – Classical music lecture on board. Sunday 10th July – Morning; Salen – Ancient Sunart Oakwood. Afternoon; Lochaline – Ardtornish Estate Gardens.
peninsula for a guided tour. During the evening we are
Monday 11th July – Morning; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Classical concert.
entertained by young musicians of the Mendelssohn on
Tuesday 12th July – Oban – Disembarkation.
Mull Festival at Craignure. We spend our final morning on Mull at Duart Castle, seat of the the Clan Maclean, and our cruise concludes with a further concert by the talented musicians of the Mendelssohn on Mull Festival.
59
ORKNEY Stromness Stromness Museum Ness Battery
Oban – Invergordon
HOY Lyness STROMA
Cape Wrath
VA NA L HI
Smoo Cave Kinlochbervie
Stornoway Arnish Point Gun Emplacements
S T O RY
The Minch
Following the Grand Fleet
Dunrobin Loch Ewe Castle Russian Arctic Convoy Museum
Tuesday 12th to Thursday 21st July 2016
INVERGORDON
9 nights including 2 Gala Dinners RAASAY
Inverarish WWI POW Camp
The Grand Fleet, the main Royal Navy fleet during World War II, was based in Scapa Flow and played its part in the biggest fleet action of the war, the Battle of Jutland. This wonderful voyage to Orcadia explores the naval history of Scotland’s far north, brought to life by guest speaker Rear Admiral John Lippiett. Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Oban at the start of the cruise, and from Invergordon to Inverness Airport and Inverness Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Invergordon and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Invergordon to Oban on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Invergordon.
60
Helmsdale
From OBAN
Kirkwall Scapa Flow Italian Chapel Churchill Barriers
Main image: Ness Battery, Stromness; Images top to bottom: Italian Chapel, Orkney; Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum; Arnish Point gun emplacements
The first leg of our voyage takes us northwards through Kyle Rhea to the Isle of Raasay where we discover the former World War I prisoner of war camp at Inverarish. A relaxing cruise of the Inner Sound precedes our visit to the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum at Loch Ewe, home of the Arctic Convoys in World War II. Crossing The Minch to Stornoway we view the World War II coastal battery situated at Arnish Point.
Guest Speaker Rear Admiral John Lippiett John Lippiett had a 36 year career in the Royal Navy which included command of 3 ships at different seniorities, a frigate squadron and the School of Maritime Warfare, culminating in three appointments at flag rank. He took early retirement in 2003 and became Chief Executive of the Mary Rose Trust. The last eleven years have been engaged in driving forward the conservation of the ship and her unique artefacts while creating the new museum from first principals. The museum opened in 2013 to great international acclaim.
From Kinlochbervie we explore the imposing limestone Smoo Cave prior to venturing onto Orkney, before taking a
Travel Plan – 9 nights
tour of the Stromness Museum and Ness Battery, a crucial
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
element of the defences of the western entrance to
Tuesday 12th July – Oban – Embarkation.
Scapa Flow.
Wednesday 13th July – Raasay – Inverarish, WWI POW camp.
We marvel at the workmanship of the Italian prisoners of war and their chapel constructed from two Nissen Huts and the Churchill Barriers, built to protect the anchorage. At Scapa Flow we are reminded of the important part this area played
Thursday 14th July – Loch Ewe – Russian Arctic Convoy Museum. Friday 15th July – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Arnish Point gun emplacements. Afternoon; Cruise The Minch. Saturday 16th July – Kinlochbervie – Smoo Cave.
Fleet in 1919.
Sunday 17th July – Morning; Stromness, Orkney – Museum and Ness Battery. Afternoon; Kirkwall, Orkney – Walks ashore.
Our exploration continues on Hoy with an excursion to the
Monday 18th July – Morning; Kirkwall – Churchill Barriers and Italian Chapel. Afternoon; Cruise Scapa Flow.
in two world wars, including the scuttling of the German
at Stroma. We conclude by relaxing at sea en route to
Tuesday 19th July – Morning; Lyness, Hoy – Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum. Afternoon; Stroma – Walks ashore.
Dunrobin Castle.
Wednesday 20th July – Helmsdale – Dunrobin Castle.
Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum and walks ashore
Thursday 21st July – Invergordon – Disembarkation. 61
62 Main image: PuďŹƒn, Fair Isle; Images left to right: Unst, Shetland, Dunrobin Castle; Skara Brae, Orkney
Muckle Flugga UNST Baltasound YELL Burravoe Old Haa Museum WHALSAY Hanseatic SHETLAND Museum
Invergordon – Invergordon
Lerwick Shetland Museum FAIR ISLE Bird Observatory
Nordic Outposts
ORKNEY SANDAY
Thursday 21st to Saturday 30th July 2016 9 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Discover the far-flung islands of Orkney and Shetland as Hebridean Princess sails where the Norse once ruled. These contrasting archipelagos boast some of the finest Neolithic sites in Britain and both played vital roles during the Second World War.
Stromness Kirkwall Skara Brae Scapa Scrabster Flow Dunnet Head Wick Wick Museum
St Magnus Cathedral Churchill Barriers Italian Chapel
Helmsdale Dunrobin Castle INVERGORDON
Setting sail from Invergordon, our maiden visit is Dunrobin Castle, home to the Earls and Dukes of
Hebridean Highlights
Sutherland since the 13th century, ahead of cruising
G
Dunrobin Castle
the Pentland Firth to Orkney.
G
Churchill Barriers and St Magnus Cathedral
We spend the day exploring Kirkwall and visit the
G
Fair Isle
famous Churchill Barriers and St Magnus Cathedral.
G
Old Haa Museum
G
Muckle Flugga
Steaming north, we pause to explore Fair Isle, one of
G
Isle of Sanday
Britain’s most remote islands, an irresistible bird and
G
Skara Brae and Dunnet Head
wild flower haven rimmed by spectacular cliffs.
G
Wick Heritage Centre
On the same latitude as Oslo, we learn more of the history of Burravoe on Yell, wartime base of the Shetland
Travel Plan – 9 nights
Bus resistance operation, at the Old Haa Museum.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
On Unst we take a tour of the island to enjoy its scenic
Thursday 21st July – Invergordon – Embarkation.
beauty and view the lighthouse at Muckle Flugga.
Friday 22nd July – Helmsdale – Dunrobin Castle.
Onwards to Whalsay, the ‘Bonnie Isle’, where the history
Saturday 23rd July – Kirkwall, Orkney – Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel and St Magnus Cathedral.
of the Hanseatic League is revealed at the Pier House at
Sunday 24th July – Fair Isle – Bird Observatory.
Symbister and on to Lerwick for an excursion to the Shetland Museum.
Monday 25th July – Morning; Burravoe, Yell – Old Haa Museum. Afternoon; Baltasound, Unst – Island tour.
South to Orkney, we step onto the unspoilt paradise of
Tuesday 26th July – Morning; Whalsay – Hanseatic Museum. Afternoon; Lerwick, Shetland – Shetland Museum.
Sanday with its sandy beaches and myriad of wildlife.
Wednesday 27th July – Sanday, Orkney – Walks ashore.
From Stromness we step into ancient history at Skara
Thurday 28th July – Morning; Stromness, Orkney – Skara Brae. Afternoon; Scrabster – Dunnet Head.
Brae, before travelling to the nature reserve at Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Britain.
Friday 29th July – Morning; Wick – Wick Museum. Afternoon; Cruise east coast. Saturday 30th July – Invergordon – Disembarkation.
The Wick Heritage Centre and a cruise south of Scotland’s east coast completes our voyage.
63
UNST Baltasound Unst Boat Haven YELL
Invergordon – Invergordon
SHETLAND Scalloway Lerwick Shetland Museum
G
A LK I N W
CR
U ISE
FAIR ISLE Bird Observatory
Footloose in the Far North
Noup Head Lighthouse WESTRAY
Saturday 30th July to Monday 8th August 2016 9 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Cruise the remote Orkney and Shetland Isles with days filled with beautiful guided walks and visits. Provision is made for those who prefer a less
STRONSAY Scapa Flow ORKNEY Visitor Centre Kirkwall St Magnus Old Man Cathedral of Hoy Lyness Scrabster Churchill Barriers Dunnet Head Italian Chapel Mary Ann’s Cottage Wick Wick Museum
active itinerary, with additional tours and trips to local attractions.
INVERGORDON
Relax at sea as we cruise the north east coast of Caithness to Wick, where we learn of the history of this former Viking settlement at the heritage centre, or enjoy
Footloose Walking Highlights G
Wick – Strolls and Walks
G
Kirkwall – Full Day Walk Programme
After crossing the Pentland Firth we go ashore at
G
Fair Isle – Half Day Walk Programme
Kirkwall for a full day of walks, or visit the Churchill
G
Shetland – Full Day Walk Programme
Barriers, Italian Chapel and St Magnus Cathedral.
G
Westray – Strolls and Walks
G
Orkney – Full Day Walk Programme
G
Dunnet Head and Mary Ann's Cottage
strolls around the town.
Lying remotely between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle offers magnificent walks or a visit to the bird observatory. We take in the scenic beauty and mystical charm of Unst as we stride out to explore on foot or embark on a tour of the island and Boat Haven.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Saturday 30th July – Invergordon – Embarkation.
Full day walks on the Shetland mainland are the order
Sunday 31st July – Wick – Walks or Wick Museum.
of the day, or the option to visit Scalloway and the Shetland Museum. We return to Orkney for walks on
Monday 1st August – Morning; Kirkwall, Orkney – Churchill Barriers and Italian Chapel or full day walk. Afternoon; St Magnus Cathedral.
wonderful Westray and a visit to Noup Head Lighthouse
Tuesday 2nd August – Fair Isle – Walks or bird observatory.
and bird reserve.
Wednesday 3rd August – Baltasound, Unst – Full day walk or Island tour and Unst Boat Haven.
The Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum on Hoy provides a fascinating insight into the role Orkney played during the two world wars. Walkers can appreciate the island’s dramatic coastline as they spend the day trekking. Scrabster is our final port of call where there is the
Thursday 4th August – Lerwick, Shetland – Full day walk or Scalloway and Shetland Museum. Friday 5th August – Westray, Orkney – Walks or Noup Head Lighthouse. Saturday 6th August – Morning; Lyness, Hoy – Full day walk or Island tour. Afternoon; Scapa Flow Visitor Centre.
opportunity to tour Dunnet Head and Mary Ann Calder's
Sunday 7th August – Scrabster – Walks or Dunnet Head and Mary Ann’s Cottage.
preserved crofters cottage, built in 1850 and where she
Monday 8th August – Invergordon – Disembarkation.
lived until the age of 89 using peat for cooking over the open range fire.
64
Travel Plan – 9 nights
Main image: Westray, looking across to Noup Head Lighthouse; Images left to right: PuďŹƒns, Fair Isle; Old Man of Hoy; Shetland Mainland 65
Invergordon – Oban
SHETLAND Grutness Jarlshof
TORICA IS
IN
WESTRAY Ring of Brodgar Stromness ORKNEY Skara Brae Kirkwall Carloway Broch Maes Howe Callanish Stones
L
H
FAIR ISLE Bird Observatory
TE R EST
Stone Age Scotland Monday 8th to Tuesday 16th August 2016
LEWIS Stornoway
8 nights including 2 Gala Dinners Barpa Langass Pobull Fhinn
NORTH UIST Lochmaddy
INVERGORDON
Steeped in history the far north and west of Scotland are scattered with Neolithic remains.
CANNA
This voyage will explore some of the area’s most inspiring archaeological sites and uncover the myriad secrets of ancient history hidden for millennia. Coach transfers will be provided from Inverness Airport and Inverness Railway Station to Invergordon at the start of the cruise, and from Oban to Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Oban and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Oban to Invergordon on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Oban.
66
OBAN Ardfern Kilmartin Glen
Main image: Skara Brae, Orkney; Images top to bottom: Westray; Jarlshof, Shetland; Callanish Stones, Lewis
As we depart from Invergordon we look forward to arriving in Kirkwall for our exploration of the island’s Neolithic remains; the Chambered tomb of Maes Howe and the iconic Ring of Brodgar are amazing sites to behold. On a northerly course we venture to Shetland and our
Guest Speakers Professor Jane Downes Professor Jane Downes leads the UHI Institute of Archaeology, heads up the research committee for the Orkney World Heritage Area and has directed excavations at the Ring of Brodgar.
exploration continues with a visit to the prehistoric
Julie Gibson
archaeological site of Jarlshof with its oval-shaped Bronze
Julie Gibson is the Regional Archaeologist for the Orkney Islands, a part time lecturer with the UHI Institute of Archaeology and is an expert on Viking and Medieval archaeology.
Age houses, Iron Age broch and wheelhouses, Viking long houses, medieval farmstead and 16th century laird’s house. Fair Isle and its bird observatory welcomes us on our return
Travel Plan – 8 nights
south before we embark on a scenic tour of Westray, home
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
to the Noup Head Lighthouse and bird reserve. Onwards to
Monday 8th August – Invergordon – Embarkation.
Stromness and the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, ahead
Tuesday 9th August – Kirkwall, Orkney – Neolithic Orkney.
of rounding Cape Wrath and cruising The Minch to Lewis.
Wednesday 10th August – Morning; Kirkwall, Orkney – Maes Howe and Ring of Brodgar. Afternoon; Cruise to Shetland.
From Stornoway we head to the famous standing stones at Callanish as well as Dun Carloway, a preserved 2,000 year old broch; on North Uist discover the Neolithic, chambered cairn of Barpa Langass and the stone circle of Pobull Fhinn. Canna, one of the Small Isles, was given to the National Trust for Scotland by the great Gaelic scholar John Lorne
Thursday 11th August – Morning; Grutness, Shetland – Jarlshof. Afternoon; Fair Isle – Bird observatory. Friday 12th August – Morning; Westray – Island tour. Afternoon; Stromness – Skara Brae. Saturday 13th August – Morning; Cruise The Minch. Afternoon; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch.
Campbell and plays host to strolls ashore before we end our
Sunday 14th August – Morning; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Afternoon; Canna – Walks ashore.
venture at fascinating Kilmartin Glen and Kilmartin House
Monday 15th August – Ardfern – Kilmartin Glen.
Museum, brimming with Neolithic monuments and artefacts.
Tuesday 16th August – Oban – Disembarkation.
67
68 Main image: Vatersay; Images left to right: Achamore Gardens, Gigha; Kinloch Castle, Rum; Iona Abbey
Oban – Oban CANNA
BARRA Castlebay VATERSAY
RUM Sea of the Kinloch Castle Hebrides
BISHOP’S ISLES Beach Landing
EIGG MUCK
COLL
Hidden Isles of the Hebrides Tuesday 16th to Tuesday 23rd August 2016
LUNGA (Treshnish Isles) Local Boat Ashore
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Tobermory
ULVA MULL Sheila’s Cottage IONA Iona Abbey
Loch Tarbert Beach Landing
The breathtaking beauty of the Scottish islands is beyond compare and the contrasting geology and customs among
OBAN
JURA
the islands makes each one unique. The Hebrides must be the most magical and unspoilt of all the islands around the GIGHA Achamore Gardens
coast of Britain and what better way to explore them than from the comfort of Hebridean Princess.
Cruising south we arrive at the tiny island of Gigha with its famous Achamore Gardens designed by Sir James
Hebridean Highlights
Horlick, ahead of making a beach landing on the Isle of
G
Achamore Gardens
Jura where 200 inhabitants are outnumbered by
G
Bishop’s Isles
5,000 deer.
G
Isles of Coll, Barra and Vatersay
G
Isle of Canna
Before a second beach landing on one of the Bishop’s
G
Kinloch Castle
Isles, the island of Coll, with its sandy beaches, is where
G
Iona Abbey
we stretch our legs and from Castlebay on Barra we
G
Treshnish Isles
venture to the most southerly inhabited of the Western Isles, Vatersay. Returning across the Sea of Hebrides we sail to the Small Isle of Canna, given to the National Trust for Scotland by the great Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell, ahead of cruising to the neighbouring Isle of Rum and the eclectic Kinloch Castle, once the summer
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 16th August – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 17th August – Morning; Gigha – Achamore Gardens. Afternoon; Loch Tarbert, Jura – Beach landing. Thursday 18th August – Morning; Coll – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides.
home of Lancastrian industrialists, the Bullough Family.
Friday 19th August – Morning; Bishop’s Isles – Beach landing. Afternoon; Castlebay, Barra – Tour of Vatersay.
The Benedictine abbey on Iona plays host to our Sunday
Saturday 20th August – Morning; Canna – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Loch Scresort, Rum – Kinloch Castle.
morning visit, followed by a maiden call to the Special Scientific Interest island of Lunga, the largest of the Treshnish Isles and where we land by local boat.
Sunday 21st August – Morning; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Afternoon; Lunga, Treshnish Isles – Land by local boat.
Our final full day sees us explore the Isle of Ulva and
Monday 22nd August – Morning; Ulva – Sheila’s Cottage and Telford Church. Afternoon; Tobermory, Mull – Walks ashore.
Sheila’s Cottage, a restored crofting cottage, before
Tuesday 23rd August – Oban – Disembarkation.
sailing to the colourful Georgian capital town of Tobermory on Mull.
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Oban – Oban
Carloway Broch Stornoway Callanish Stones LEWIS Tarbert St Clement’s Church HARRIS
Wonders of the Western Isles Tuesday 23rd to Tuesday 30th August 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Enjoy the magic and splendour of the Hebrides
NORTH UIST Lochmaddy Barpa Langass Pobull Fhinn BENBECULA
SHIANT ISLES SKYE Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
SOUTH UIST Lochboisdale ERISKAY Prince’s Bay BARRA Castlebay Kisimul Castle
Loch Harport Talisker Distillery CANNA Sea of the Hebrides
RUM EIGG MUCK
from the Inner Isles of Tiree and Skye to the tranquillity of the Outer Isles of Barra and the Uists TIREE
where ancient history and traditions combine with some of the most unique scenery in Britain.
At the picturesque and most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides, Tiree, we learn of the construction of the
MULL
Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum
OBAN
Hebridean Highlights
Skerryvore Lighthouse, a legacy of 19th century
G
Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum
engineering. After cruising the Sea of the Hebrides we
G
Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn
arrive at Barra to discover the former Macneil stronghold
G
Callanish Standing Stones and Carloway Broch
of Kisimul Castle, guarding Castlebay. G
Shiant Isles
Famous as the place Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot
G
Tweed Weaving Demonstration
on Scottish soil in 1745, we explore on the Isle of Eriskay,
G
Dunvegan Castle
before touring the Uists and enjoying Barpa Langass and
G
Talisker Distillery
Pobull Fhinn, with a legendary Hebridean picnic ashore.
Travel Plan – 7 nights The famous Callanish Standing Stones and 2,000 year
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
old Carloway Broch await our arrival on the Isle of Lewis,
Tuesday 23rd August – Oban – Embarkation.
ahead of making a beach landing on the Shiants, a
Wednesday 24th August – Morning; Tiree – Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum. Afternoon; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides.
collection of privately owned and uninhabited islands in the Minch that boast dramatic cliffs. Returning to the Outer Isles our tour of Harris allows us to witness a traditional tweed weaving demonstration and the ancient church of St Clement’s, built in the 1500s, before sailing to the largest Hebridean island of Skye and Dunvegan Castle, ancestral home of the Chieftain of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. As our cruise comes to a close we venture to Talisker, Skye’s only legal distillery, which precedes our final sail of the Small Isles homeward for Oban.
Thursday 25th August – Morning; Castlebay, Barra – Kisimul Castle. Afternoon; Eriskay – Walks at Prince’s Bay. Friday 26th August – Morning; Lochboisdale, South Uist – Tour the Uists. Afternoon; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Saturday 27th August – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch. Afternoon; Shiant Isles – Beach landing. Sunday 28th August – Morning; Tarbert, Harris – Island tour and St Clement’s Church, Rodel. Afternoon; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Monday 29th August – Morning; Loch Harport, Skye – Talisker Distillery. Afternoon; Cruise the Small Isles. Tuesday 30th August – Oban – Disembarkation.
70
Main image: Harris from Am Clicham; Images left to right: Tiree; Talisker Whisky, Skye; Kisimul Castle, Barra 71
(Image: Geoff Dixon)
72 Main image: Shieldaig; Images left to right: Inverewe Garden; Plockton; Corrieshalloch Gorge
Smoo Cave Kinlochbervie
Oban – Oban
Loch a’ Chairn Bhain Lochinver Highland Pottery
TANERA MÒR (Summer Isles)
Ullapool Corrieshalloch Inverewe Gorge Measach Falls Garden
The Minch
Gairloch
Scenic Sutherland
Shieldaig
Tuesday 30th August to Tuesday 6th September 2016
Plockton Kyle Rhea
SKYE
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Relax and enjoy the comfort of Hebridean Princess
CANNA
Inverie RUM
as we cruise north to Ullapool, visiting inner isles and remote mainland villages through some of the
EIGG
most scenic lochs of the west coast.
So
un
d
of
MULL
M
ul
l OBAN
Cruising Kyle Rhea our first visit is to the conservation village of Shieldaig nestled on the shores of the loch of
Hebridean Highlights
the same name. Onwards to the lush oasis of Inverewe
G
Conservation Village of Shieldaig
Garden, perched on a peninsula at the edge of Loch
G
Inverewe Garden
Ewe, before experiencing the hand made manufacture
G
Highland Pottery
of ceramics at the Highland Pottery, Lochinver.
G
Smoo Cave, Durness
G
Tanera Mòr
G
Corrieshalloch Gorge and Measach Falls
G
Conservation Village of Plockton
We explore the remote Sutherland coast at Loch a’Chairn Bhain, once the site of a World War II midget submarine training base, and from Kinlochbervie we travel to Smoo Cave at Durness, the largest and most dramatic coastline cave in Britain.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
On Tanera Mòr, the largest of the Summer Isles, we
Tuesday 30th August – Oban – Embarkation.
discover the private post office that isues its own
Wednesday 31st August – Morning; Cruise Kyle Rhea. Afternoon; Shieldaig – Walks ashore.
stamps, before exploring the sheer-sided spectacle of Corrieshalloch Gorge were the River Droma flows over a series of waterfalls, the largest of which is the 46m Measach Falls. After a cruise of the Inner Sound, we call at the conservation village of Plockton on the banks of Loch Carron and as our cruise draws to an end, we travel to Inverie on the Knoydart peninsula, only accessible by sea or on foot, ahead of a final cruise of the Small Isles.
Thursday 1st September – Morning; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden. Afternoon; Lochinver – Highland Pottery. Friday 2nd September – Morning; Loch a’ Chairn Bhain – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Kinlochbervie – Smoo Cave. Saturday 3rd September – Morning; Tanera Mòr – Island Post Office. Afternoon; Ullapool – Corrieshalloch Gorge and Measach Falls. Sunday 4th September – Morning; Cruise the Inner Sound. Afternoon; Plockton – Walks ashore. Monday 5th September – Morning; Inverie – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Cruise the Small Isles. Tuesday 6th September – Oban – Disembarkation.
73
Oban – Oban MULL OBAN Ardmaddy Castle Gardens Craobh Haven Arduaine Garden
COLONSAY Colonsay House Gardens
Argyll’s Atlantic Islands
JURA
Tuesday 6th to Saturday 10th September 2016
Loch na Mile Craighouse ISLAY
4 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
GIGHA Achamore Gardens
Enjoy a short 4 night cruise on board Hebridean Princess exploring the islands and remote areas south of Oban, with isolated villages, distilleries and wonderful gardens.
Sailing from Oban our first visit is to Ardmaddy Castle Gardens, located in a most spectacular setting, shielded
Hebridean Highlights
to the north by mature woodlands and protected from
l Ardmaddy
the Atlantic winds by the elevated castle, before sailing
l Colonsay
onwards to the island of Colonsay and Colonsay House
l Laphroaig
Distillery
Gardens, owned by the Strathcona family for over
l Achamore
Gardens
100 years.
l Craighouse l Arduaine
Castle Gardens
House Gardens
Garden
Continuing south the whisky isle of Islay beckons and from Port Ellen we tour one of the most famous
Travel Plan – 4 nights
distilleries, Laphroaig, renowned for its peaty single malts.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Cruising to the neighbouring and tiny island of Gigha
Tuesday 6th September – Oban – Embarkation.
we look forward to Achamore Gardens; set in mature
Wednesday 7th September – Morning; Seil Sound – Ardmaddy Castle Gardens. Afternoon; Colonsay – Colonsay House Gardens.
and varied woodland, this 54 acre paradise hosts an impressive collection of plants and shrubs with breathtaking views across to the islands of Islay and Jura.
Thursday 8th September – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery. Afternoon; Gigha – Achamore Gardens.
A north westerly sail takes us to Jura where we have the
Friday 9th September – Morning; Loch na Mile, Jura – Craighouse. Afternoon; Craobh Haven – Arduaine Garden.
opportunity to visit Craighouse, the only settlement on the island, before arriving at the delightful marina of Craobh Haven for an exploration of Arduaine Garden, a tranquil green oasis on the south slope of the Arduaine peninsula, south of Oban.
74
Saturday 10th September – Oban – Disembarkation.
Main image: Colonsay House Gardens; Images left to right: Achamore Gardens; Laphroaig Distillery, Islay; Craighouse, Jura 75
76 Main image: Eigg; Images left to right: Loch Carron; Armadale Castle, Skye; Shieldaig
Oban – Oban
Inverewe Garden Gairloch
RAASAY
Highlights of the Inner Hebrides
Little Minch
Plockton
SKYE
Armadale Clan Donald Centre
Saturday 10th to Thursday 15th September 2016 5 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner
Spend 5 nights on board the revered Hebridean Princess
Shieldaig Conservation Village
RUM Kinloch Castle
EIGG Community Isle
MUCK COLL
and experience the Small Isles of Rum and Eigg MULL
combined with isolated mainland destinations on this
OBAN
delightful late summer cruise.
Cruising the Sound of Mull from Oban we venture to the Small Isle of Rum where, from Loch Scresort, we
Hebridean Highlights
explore the imposing red sandstone built Kinloch Castle.
l Kinloch
Once the summer home of Lancastrian industrialists,
l Clan
Castle
the Bullough Family, both the island and the castle
l Conservation
were gifted to the forerunner of todays Scottish Natural
l Isle
Heritage, who continue to maintain the island and
l Inverewe
its wildlife.
l Conservation
Donald Centre Village of Plockton
of Raasay Garden
l Commuinty
Village of Shieldaig
Isle of Eigg
From Rum we sail the short distance to Armadale on the Isle of Skye and explore the Clan Donald Centre, set in a
Travel Plan – 5 nights
20,000-acre highland estate on the Sleat peninsula.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Once part of the traditional lands of Clan Donald, the
Saturday 10th September – Oban – Embarkation.
Estate was purchased by the Clan Donald Lands Trust
Sunday 11th September – Morning; Loch Scresort, Rum – Kinloch Castle. Afternoon; Armadale, Skye – Clan Donald Centre.
in 1971. Sailing through Kyle Rhea we arrive at the conservation village of Plockton, located on the shores of Loch Carron, before sailing to the small island of Raasay, most famous as the birth place of the poet Sorley MacLean.
Monday 12th September – Morning; Plockton – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Raasay – Walks ashore. Tuesday 13th September – Morning; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden. Afternoon; Shieldaig – Walks ashore.
Continuing north we arrive at Gairloch on the mainland
Wednesday 14th September – Morning; Cruise the Narrows and Sound of Sleat. Afternoon; Eigg – Walks ashore.
from where we explore Inverewe Garden, planted by
Thursday 15th September – Oban – Disembarkation.
Osgood Mackenzie in 1862 and recognised as one of the world’s great gardens. Onwards to the conservation village of Shieldaig ahead of our last day cruising the Narrows and Sound of Sleat, with our last stretch of legs on the community owned Isle of Eigg, dominated by the mile long pitchstone ridge of An Sgùrr.
77
Oban – Oban
HARRIS NORTH UIST Lochmaddy Barpa Langass Pobull Fhinn BENBECULA
Taste of the Outer Isles Thursday 15th to Tuesday 20th September 2016 5 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner
SOUTH UIST ERISKAY Prince’s Bay BARRA
Crossing the sea of the Hebrides Kisimul Castle comes into view, guarding the approach to Castlebay on Barra
Castlebay Kisimul Castle
CANNA Sea of the Hebrides
RUM EIGG MUCK
in the Outer Hebrides. Walk where Princes once stood and experience the grandeur of Dunvegan Castle – all of
SKYE Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
COLL TIREE
this combines to provide an unforgettable cruise.
MULL OBAN
After crossing the Sea of the Hebrides to Barra we explore the former stronghold of the Chiefs of Clan
Hebridean Highlights
Macneil the medieval Kisimul Castle, now owned by
l Kisimul
Historic Scotland, ahead of sailing north to Eriskay and
l Eriskay
Prince’s Bay. Here, in 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie first set foot on Scottish soil to raise an army to reclaim the Scottish and English crowns for his father.
Castle and Prince’s Bay l Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn l Dunvegan Castle l Isle of Canna l Isle of Muck
The spectacular chambered cairn of Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn, the only stone circle on North Uist, are
Travel Plan – 5 nights
wonderous sites for us to experience on our tour of the
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Uists, before sailing to Loch Dunvegan on the west coast of Skye and heading to Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of the Chieftan of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. As our cruise nears its end we explore on the Small Isle of Canna, given to the National Trust for Scotland by the great Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell, before landing at another of the Small Isles, Muck, with its welcoming tea shop.
Thursday 15th September – Oban – Embarkation. Friday 16th September – Morning; Cruise the Sea of the Hebrides. Afternoon; Castlebay, Barra – Kisimul Castle. Saturday 17th September – Morning; Eriskay – Walks at Prince’s Bay. Afternoon; Cruise the Outer Hebrides. Sunday 18th September – Morning; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Afternoon; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Monday 19th September – Morning; Canna - Walks ashore. Afternoon; Muck – Walks ashore. Tuesday 20th September – Oban – Disembarkation.
78
Main image: Castlebay, Barra; Images left to right: Barpa Langass, North Uist; Dunvegan Castle, Skye; Eriskay ponies 79
80 Main image: Callanish Stones, Lewis; Images left to right: Attadale Gardens; Carloway Broch, Lewis; Lews Castle
Oban – Oban
Carloway Broch LEWIS Callanish Stones Stornoway The Lews Castle Minch Museum Tarbert St Clement’s Church SHIANT HARRIS ISLES Inverewe Garden Gairloch SKYE
Westward to Harris and Lewis Tuesday 20th to Tuesday 27th September 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
RAASAY Armadale Clan Donald Centre CANNA
Shieldaig Plockton Attadale Gardens Kyle Rhea
RUM
This cruise also departs on 3rd May 2016
EIGG
Join Hebridean Princess as she explores the Inner and
COLL
Outer Hebrides, including the Small Isle of Eigg and
So
un
do
larger neighbour of Skye, along with the Outer Isles
fM
ull MULL
of Harris and Lewis and the uninhabited Shiants.
Departing from Oban and venturing round Ardnamurchan, we spend the morning cruising north
OBAN
Hebridean Highlights
through Kyle Rhea and under the Skye Bridge to the
l Tweed
Weaving Demonstration
island of Raasay for an afternoon of strolls.
l Shiant
Isles
l Callanish
Arriving at Tarbert on the Isle of Harris we enjoy an
Standing Stones and Carloway Broch
island tour including a tweed weaving demonstration
l Lews
and a call at the ancient church of St Clement’s, built in
l Inverewe
Castle Museum
the 1500s.
l Conservation l Attadale
Garden Village of Shieldaig
Gardens
Located on the edge of the Outer Hebrides are the uninhabited Shiant Isles, the renowned wildlife haven,
Travel Plan – 7 nights
where we intend to land by beach landing craft.
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Returning to the Outer Isles, we journey to the famous standing stones at Callanish on Lewis, the 2,000 year old Carloway Broch and the more recently constructed Lews Castle Museum. Cruising The Minch to Gairloch on the mainland we appreciate the delights of Inverewe Garden, a vision of Osgood Mackenzie and set on a barren bluff. Continuing to the conservation village of Shieldaig we stretch our legs ashore, before sailing to Loch Carron where we visit Attadale Gardens with its impressive collection of sculpture.
Tuesday 20th September – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 21st September – Morning; Cruise Kyle Rhea and The Narrows. Afternoon; Raasay – Walks ashore. Thursday 22nd September – Morning; Tarbert, Harris – Island tour including St Clement’s Church, Rodel. Afternoon; Shiant Isles – Beach landing. Friday 23rd September – Morning; Stornoway, Lewis – Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch. Afternoon; Stornoway, Lewis – Lews Castle Museum. Saturday 24th September – Morning; Cruise The Minch. Afternoon; Gairloch – Inverewe Garden. Sunday 25th September – Morning; Shieldaig – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Plockton – Attadale Gardens. Monday 26th September – Morning; Armadale, Skye – Clan Donald Centre. Afternoon; Eigg – Walks ashore. Tuesday 27th September – Oban – Disembarkation.
Onwards to Armadale and the Clan Donald Centre, which depicts the history of this once powerful Clan and then our final port of call is the Small Isle of Eigg, now owned by its community following a buyout in 1997.
81
Oban – Oban
HARRIS
Voyage to the Outer Isles
NORTH UIST Lochmaddy Barpa Langass Pobull Fhinn BENBECULA
SKYE Loch Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
SOUTH UIST
Tuesday 27th September to Tuesday 4th October 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners This cruise also departs on 10th May 2016
Wonder at the contrasts of Scotland’s isles, from the inner Hebridean island of Canna, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, to the Outer Isles of Barra, Vatersay, The
Loch Harport Talisker Distillery
Lochboisdale BARRA Castlebay VATERSAY
CANNA RUM EIGG
Sea of the Hebrides
MUCK Glenmore Bay COLL Ardnamurchan Distillery TIREE MULL Skerryvore Craignure Lighthouse Duart Castle OBAN Museum
BISHOP’S ISLES
Uists and the remote Bishop’s Isles.
Our first port of call is the Isle of Coll where we explore on foot before sailing to Tiree to learn about the construction of the Skerryvore Lighthouse at Hynish.
Hebridean Highlights l Skerryvore l Bishop’s
Lighthouse Museum
Isles
Crossing the Sea of The Hebrides we sail to the Bishop’s
l Barpa
Isles at the very southern tip of the Outer Hebrides for a
l Dunvegan
beach landing, ahead of a relaxing sail to Castlebay for
l Talisker
walks on the most southerly inhabited of the Outer Isles,
l Ardnamurchan
Vatersay.
l Duart
Langass and Pobull Fhinn Castle
Distillery Distillery
Castle
From Lochboisdale we tour South Uist, Benbecula and North Uist, visiting Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn, including a picnic ashore, before re-joining
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Hebridean Princess in Lochmaddy.
Tuesday 27th September – Oban – Embarkation.
Sailing south east we head to Dunvegan Castle on Skye,
Wednesday 28th September – Morning; Coll – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Tiree – Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum.
which has been the home of the Chieftain of Clan MacLeod for 800 years and boasts wonderful gardens. Continuing along the south west coast of Skye to Loch Harport we visit the island’s only legal distillery, Talisker. We steam to the Small Isle of Canna, given to the National Trust for Scotland by the great Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell in 1981, before taking strolls on the
Thursday 29th September – Morning; Bishop’s Isles – Beach landing. Afternoon; Castlebay, Barra – Walks on Vatersay. Friday 30th September – Morning; Lochboisdale, South Uist – Tour of the Uists. Afternoon; Lochmaddy, North Uist – Barpa Langass and Pobull Fhinn. Saturday 1st October – Morning; Loch Dunvegan, Skye – Dunvegan Castle. Afternoon; Loch Harport, Skye – Talisker Distillery.
delightful Isle of Muck.
Sunday 2nd October – Morning; Canna – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Muck – Walks ashore.
Our final full day allows us to enjoy the Ardnamurchan
Monday 3rd October – Morning; Glenmore Bay – Ardnamurchan Distillery. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle.
Distillery from Glenmore Bay, promoted as Scotland’s newest, greenest and most westerly mainland distillery. Our voyage concludes at Duart Castle, home to Clan Maclean.
82
Travel Plan – 7 nights
Tuesday 4th October – Oban – Disembarkation.
Main image: Pobull Fhinn, North Uist; Images left to right: Vatersay; Talisker Distillery, Skye; Duart Castle, Mull 83
Oban – Oban
Dunvegan Dunvegan Castle
& DR I OD
I
NT
CANNA
ERES
Flavours of Scotland
SKYE Armadale Kinloch Lodge
MUCK COLL
Tuesday 4th to Tuesday 11th October 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners This cruise also departs on 5th April 2016
Scotland is rightly proud of its reputation for its wonderful natural larder and those who produce
the Highlands and Islands.
84
Tobermory Isle of Mull Cheese
MULL STAFFA Craignure IONA Duart Castle Iona Abbey COLONSAY Colonsay Oysters and Honey
mouth-watering creations. Join Hebridean Princess as we explore the wonderful culinary offerings of
Kyle of Lochalsh
RUM EIGG
T
NK
FO
Three Chimneys Restaurant
ISLAY Port Ellen Laphroaig Distillery
JURA
ERISKA Isle of Eriska Hotel OBAN
Main image: Dunvegan Castle; Images top to bottom: Isle of Mull Cheese; Laphroaig Distillery, Islay; Three Chimneys Restaurant, Skye
Islay has a reputation for big peaty whiskies and from Port Ellen we visit one of the island’s famous distilleries,
Food & Drink Highlights
Laphroaig. On Colonsay meet the man who supplies
l Laphroaig
Hebridean Princess with oysters, but also learn about his
l Colonsay
other passion – honey and the black tailed bees he keeps.
l Lunch
Columba’s Iona is our next port of call and as we sail towards
l Lunch
Skye for our overnight anchorage, we cruise past the island
l Isle
of Staffa with its famous Fingal’s Cave.
l Lunch
Distillery
Oysters and Honey Farm
and Cookery Demonstration – Kinloch Lodge – Three Chimneys Restaurant
of Mull Cheese
l Duart
– Isle of Eriska Hotel Castle – Champagne Reception
From Armadale a cookery demonstration and lunch at the Michelin starred Kinloch Lodge beckons, before a sail to Kyle
Travel Plan – 7 nights
of Lochalsh. A morning cruise takes us to Loch Dunvegan,
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
where we visit Dunvegan Castle and enjoy lunch at the world
Tuesday 4th October – Oban – Embarkation.
renowned Three Chimneys Restaurant.
Wednesday 5th October – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Laphroaig Distillery. Afternoon; Colonsay – Oysters and Honey.
As we delight in the Small Isles we head south to Mull and our next port of call, the island capital of Tobermory. Here we visit Isle of Mull Cheese, a small, family farm, to learn how the local cheeses are made by hand. Our final morning is spent at the Isle of Eriska Hotel, situated on its own private island, where we enjoy lunch in the Michelin starred restaurant. We conclude our culinary adventure by returning to Mull for a Champagne reception at Duart Castle, hosted by Sir Lachlan Maclean, Chieftain of Clan Maclean.
Thursday 6th October – Morning; Iona – Benedictine Abbey. Afternoon; Cruise past Fingal’s Cave, Staffa to Skye. Friday 7th October – Morning; Armadale, Skye – Cookery Demonstration and lunch at Kinloch Lodge. Afternoon; Kyle of Lochalsh – Walks ashore. Saturday 8th October – Morning; Cruise east coast of Skye. Afternoon; Dunvegan, Skye – Lunch at Three Chimneys and Dunvegan Castle. Sunday 9th October – Morning; Cruise the Small Isles. Afternoon; Tobermory, Mull – Isle of Mull Cheese. Monday 10th October – Morning; Isle of Eriska – Lunch at Isle of Eriska Hotel. Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle Champagne reception. Tuesday 11th October – Oban – Disembarkation. 85
(Image: Geoff Dixon)
86 Main image: Old Man of Storr, Skye; Images left to right: Walkers at Shieldaig; Eigg; Eilean Donan Castle
Oban – Oban
Trotternish peninsula Gairloch
Highland Heritage
RAASAY
Tuesday 11th to Tuesday 18th October 2016
highland title nature reserve, a wealth of historic castles and a heritage centre; all of which bring to
RUM EIGG MUCK Glenmore Bay Nadurra Centre Tobermory
life the deep highland heritage of this region.
As we sail north from Oban we venture to Ballachullish and the Highland Titles Nature Reserve to become a
Kyle of Lochalsh Eilean Donan Castle
Armadale Clan Donald Centre
7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
t. Become a Laird, Lord or Lady as we explore a
Shieldaig
SKYE Portree
Ballachulish Highland Titles Nature Reserve
MULL Craignure Duart Castle
OBAN
Hebridean Highlights
titled Laird, Lord or Lady of Glencoe on allocation of our
l Highland
very own plot of land on the Keil Hill Estate.
l Isle
Titles Nature Reserve
of Raasay
l Trotternish
Peninsula
After taking a cruise of the Sound of Mull and the
l Conservation
delightful Small Isles, the island of Raasay awaits before
l Eilean
we embark on a tour of the spectacular Trotternish
l Nadurra
peninsula on the Isle of Skye.
l Duart
Village of Shieldaig
Donan Castle Centre
Castle – Champagne Reception
Returning to the mainland we stretch our legs at popular Gairloch and then onwards to the conservation village of Shieldaig, founded in 1800.
Travel Plan – 7 nights Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices Tuesday 11th October – Oban – Embarkation.
Sailing south we berth at Kyle of Lochalsh from where we are lured to one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, Eilean Donan, formerly a stronghold of Clan MacKenzie, ahead of venturing to Armadale with its ruined castle and the Clan Donald Centre. Preceding a call to the award winning Nadurra Centre, where we are introduced to the breath-taking variety of flora and fauna found in this beautiful corner of Scotland, we enjoy walks ashore on the community owned island of Eigg. Our final full day is spent on the island of Mull with a visit to the colourful Georgian town of Tobermory,
Wednesday 12th October – Morning; Ballachulish – Highland Titles Nature Reserve. Afternoon; Cruise Sound of Mull and Small Isles. Thursday 13th October – Morning; Raasay - Walks ashore. Afternoon; Portree, Skye – Tour Trotternish peninsula. Friday 14th October – Morning; Gairloch – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Shieldaig – Walks ashore. Saturday 15th October – Morning; Kyle of Lochalsh – Eilean
Donan Castle. Afternoon; Armadale, Skye – Armadale Castle and Clan Donald Centre. Sunday 16th October – Morning; Eigg – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Glenmore Bay – Nadurra Centre. Monday 17th October – Morning; Tobermory, Mull – Walks ashore.
Afternoon; Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle Champagne reception. Tuesday 18th October – Oban – Disembarkation.
culminating with a Champagne reception at the imposing Duart Castle, hosted by the current Chieftan of Clan Maclean, Sir Lachlan.
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LEWIS HARRIS SHIANT ISLES
NORTH UIST
North Minch
Inner Sound SKYE SOUTH UIST Little Minch
of d
So
un
CANNA BARRA PABBAY Sea of the RUM MINGULAY BERNERAY Hebrides MUCK So un do COLL f
Sl ea t
BENBECULA
TIREE
MULL
Mu
ll OBAN
JURA ISLAY (Image: Geoff Dixon)
.
Oban – Oban
Autumn Surprise Tuesday 18th to Tuesday 25th October 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
Join Hebridean Princess on this autumn cruise as Captain Trevor Bailey decides the itinerary on a daily basis, taking you to some of his favourite destinations. Although the itinerary is unknown, you will be assured of excellent service, exquisite cuisine and the understated elegance of Hebridean Princess.
Please note that it is planned for Captain Bailey to be Master on this cruise, however this may be changed without notice.
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MULL
Oban – Greenock
OBAN
Ardfern Kilmartin Glen and Museum
JURA
Call of the Clyde Tuesday 25th October to Tuesday 1st November 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners
ISLAY
Port Ellen Ardbeg Distillery
As we leave our home port of Oban for the last time this season we head south and experience the contrasts between the Hebridean islands of Jura and Gigha and the Clyde islands of Arran and Bute. Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Oban at the start of the cruise, and from Greenock to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Secure car parking is available at Greenock and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Greenock to Oban on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Greenock.
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Holy Loch Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum
Tayvallich
GREENOCK Largs Ardgowan House
BUTE GIGHA Achamore GREAT CUMBRAE Gardens Cathedral of ARRAN the Isles Brodick Campbeltown Glenbarr Abbey
HOLY ISLE
Mull of Kintyre SANDA ISLAND
Main image: Tayvallich; Images top to bottom: Kilmartin Glen; Ardgowan House; Ardbeg Distillery
Leaving Oban, Hebridean Princess heads south to Ardfern from where we visit Kilmartin Glen and Museum, festooned with Neolithic monuments and artefacts. Cruising Loch Sween we take time ashore at picturesque Tayvallich, before continuing to Port Ellen on Islay for a tour of the Ardbeg Distillery and then onwards to the small island of Gigha, with its famous Achamore Gardens, designed by Sir James Horlick.
Guest Speaker Miranda Krestovnikoff Miranda is one of the UK's best-known TV and radio presenters. Recognised for her award winning factual programmes, as a biologist, trained diver and environmentalist, she has explored Great Britain's shoreline from top to toe, revealing fascinating tales of marine life. In between presenting, Miranda regularly writes articles on tourism and leisure for national newspapers and magazines and is currently President of the RSPB and Patron on the Whale and Dolphin Conservation.
A cruise of the Mull of Kintyre takes us to Campbeltown where we visit the Clan MacAlister Centre at Glenbarr Abbey,
Travel Plan – 7 nights
before landing on the privately owned Sanda Island, a site of
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Special Scientific Interest. Holy Isle offers a spiritual heritage dating to the 6th century and is a delightful place to walk ashore before venturing to its larger neighbour, Arran, for a guided tour of the island. From Largs we visit Ardgowan House, set in 400 acres this Georgian property was designed by former assistant to Robert Adam, Hugh Cairncross and built between 1798 and
Tuesday 25th October – Oban – Embarkation. Wednesday 26th October – Morning; Ardfern – Kilmartin Glen
and Museum. Afternoon; Tayvallich, Loch Sween – Walks ashore. Thursday 27th October – Morning; Port Ellen, Islay – Ardbeg Distillery. Afternoon; Gigha – Achamore Gardens. Friday 28th October – Morning; Cruise the Mull of Kintyre. Afternoon; Campbeltown – Glenbarr Abbey.
1801. It is now home to the Shaw Stewart family.
Saturday 29th October – Morning; Sanda – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Holy Isle – Walks ashore.
On Great Cumbrae, Britain’s smallest cathedral awaits and
Sunday 30th October – Morning; Brodick, Arran – Island tour. Afternoon; Largs – Ardgowan House.
then our final visit is the Historic Kilmun and Argyll
Monday 31st October – Morning; Great Cumbrae – Cathedral of
Mausoleum. Built in 1790, the Argyll Mausoluem was
the Isles. Afternoon; Holy Loch – Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum.
constructed to house the remains of the Dukes and Earls of Argyll, Chiefs of the Clan Campbell and their families.
Tuesday 1st November – Greenock – Disembarkation.
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92 Main image: Inveraray Castle; Images left to right: Finlaystone House; Kelburn Castle; Dumfries House
Inveraray Castle
Greenock – Greenock
Crarae e
GREENOCK
T
I
N
Rhu Hill House
c Lo
TECHTU HI
L RA
ARC
h
n Fy
Strachur Strachur House Ardkinglas House
TERES
Finlaystone House
Grand Houses and Castles of the Clyde
I N V E R C LY D E
BUTE Largs Ardgowan House Kelburn Castle
Tuesday 1st to Tuesday 8th November 2016 7 nights including 2 Gala Dinners ARRAN
Firth of Clyde Troon Dumfries House Dundonald Castle
This ever popular cruise takes in some of the architectural gems of the Clyde. The areas long and often turbulent past brings together a rich tapestry of medieval castles
Campbeltown Glenbarr Abbey
and grand mansions and Hebridean guests have a rare private viewing of many, often by a member of the family.
From our berth in Greenock we visit Finlaystone House,
Guest Speaker David Winpenny
home to the MacMillan family. High on a hill in Helensburgh sits what is universally regarded as Charles
David worked for the Countryside Commission before setting up his own PR company. He has always been interested in the quirkier side of architecture; he researched and wrote 'Up to a Point - In search of pyramids in Britain and Ireland'. An accredited NADFAS lecturer, David speaks on a wide range of architectural subjects, writes for the AA and is a regular contributor to BBC Countryfile Magazine. He was a Mastermind finalist in 1999.
Rennie Mackintosh’s finest domestic creation, Hill House, now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. After cruising Loch Fyne we enjoy Hebridean’s first ever visit to Sir Charles and Lady McLean’s home, Strachur House, with its sheltered flower garden. The fairy tale Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll, opens the private apartments for our visit,
Travel Plan – 7 nights
before we head to the Sir Robert Lorimer designed
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
Ardkinglas House.
Tuesday 1st November – Greenock – Embarkation.
A warm welcome is assured at Glenbarr Abbey, home to the Clan MacAlister Centre, before we continue our voyage to Dumfries House; designed by Robert Adam and little changed by time, the house still boasts much of the original furnishings. Dundonald Castle is now a ruin, but was once a royal residence, built for Robert II when he became King in 1371. From Largs we visit Georgian Ardgowan House; set in 400 acres and built between 1798 and 1801. Our final visit is to Kelburn Castle, home to Patrick Boyle, 10th Earl of Glasgow, originally built in the 13th century and extended in the 16th century, but now featuring rather
Wednesday 2nd November – Morning; Greenock – Finlaystone
House. Afternoon; Rhu – Hill House. Thursday 3rd November – Morning; Cruise Loch Fyne. Afternoon; Strachur – Strachur House. Friday 4th November – Morning; Crarae – Inveraray Castle Private Apartments. Afternoon; Strachur – Ardkinglas House. Saturday 5th November – Morning; Cruise Kilbranan Sound. Afternoon; Campbeltown – Glenbarr Abbey. Sunday 6th November – Morning; Troon – Dumfries House. Afternoon; Troon – Dundonald Castle. Monday 7th November – Morning; Largs – Ardgowan House.
Largs – Kelburn Castle. Tuesday 8th November – Greenock – Disembarkation.
unusual graffiti.
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Greenock – Greenock GREENOCK I N V E R C LY D E
BUTE Rothesay Rothesay Castle
GREAT CUMBRAE Cathedral of the Isles
Islands of the Clyde Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th November 2016 4 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner
ARRAN Brodick Island Tour HOLY ISLE
Firth of Clyde
This cruise also departs on 7th March 2016
The elegance of Hebridean Princess allows us to sample the beauty of the Clyde islands in comfort with this wonderful four night itinerary that takes us to Britain’s
SANDA ISLAND Site of Special Scientific Interest
AILSA CRAIG
smallest cathedral and a privately owned island, designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Steaming from Greenock we sail towards Britain’s smallest cathedral on the delightful island of Great
Hebridean Highlights
Cumbrae. The cathedral was commissioned by the
l Cathedral
6th Earl of Glasgow, George Boyle, designed by William
l Sanda
Butterfield and completed in 1848. Arran is the largest of the Clyde islands and plays host to our next port of call where we enjoy a tour of this once popular island retreat.
of the Isles
Island – Site of Special Scientific Interest
l Ailsa
Craig
l Holy
Isle
l Rothesay
Castle
Onwards to the privately owned Sanda Island, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its
Travel Plan – 4 nights
importance to both migrating and breeding birds and
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
which is home to the first bird observatory on the west
Tuesday 8th November – Greenock – Embarkation.
coast of Scotland.
Wednesday 9th November – Morning; Great Cumbrae – Cathedral of the Isles. Afternoon; Brodick, Arran – Island tour.
An afternoon sail allows us to circumnavigate the imposing island of Ailsa Craig, once quarried for its blue hone granite used in the making of curling stones, but now home to vast numbers of gannets.
Friday 11th November – Morning; Holy Isle – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Rothesay, Bute – Rothesay Castle.
Cruising to Holy Isle, off the east coast of Arran, we
Saturday 12th November – Greenock – Disembarkation.
stretch our legs ahead of our last visit to Rothesay Castle on the Isle of Bute, previously described as one of the most imposing castles in Scotland owing to its long standing history and unusual circular design.
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Thursday 10th November – Morning; Sanda Island – Walks ashore. Afternoon; Circumnavigate Ailsa Craig.
Main image: Holy Isle; Images left to right: Rothesay Castle, Bute; Ailsa Craig; Cathedral of the Isles, Great Cumbrae 95
96 Main image: Loch Long; Images left to right: Tarbert Castle; Ascog Victorian Fernery; Loch Fyne
Greenock – Greenock Fy ne
Lo ch
Scenic Cruising
Scenic Cruising Loch Loch Goil Long Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum
Holy Loch
Loch Striven
GREENOCK I N V E R C LY D E
Lochs of Argyll
Tarbert Tarbert Castle
BUTE
Rothesay Ascog Fernery
Saturday 12th to Wednesday 16th November 2016 4 nights including Welcome Cocktail Party and 1 Gala Dinner This cruise also departs on 11th March 2016
Firth of Clyde
ARRAN
Escape to the tranquillity of some of the most beautiful and peaceful lochs of Argyll with this four night cruise encompassing village walks, a restored fernery once forgotten by time and a mausoleum built to house the Dukes and Earls of Argyll.
Our voyage commences with a cruise through the narrow Kyles of Bute and Loch Striven; during World
Hebridean Highlights
War II the loch was used for training the X-Craft midget
l Loch
submarine crews, deployed to attack the Tirpitz.
l Tarbert
Striven and Loch Fyne
l Ascog
Castle
Fernery
Ashore at the fishing village of Tarbert, with its ruined
l Historic
castle once occupied by Robert the Bruce, we stretch
l Loch
Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum
Long and Loch Goil
our legs before enjoying a scenic cruise of Loch Fyne. Lying on the geographical fault of the Highland Line, the
Travel Plan – 4 nights
island of Bute is home to Ascog Fernery. Dating to
Please refer to the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for prices
around 1870, this Victorian fernery was rediscovered and
Saturday 12th November – Greenock – Embarkation.
restored by its current owners and is believed to house
Sunday 13th November – Morning; Cruise Loch Striven and Kyles of Bute. Afternoon; Tarbert, Loch Fyne – Village walks and ruined castle.
the oldest fern in the United Kingdom – Todea Barbara or ‘the thousand year old fern’. Located on the shores of Holy Loch we visit Historic
Monday 14th November – Morning; Cruise Loch Fyne. Afternoon; Rothesay, Bute – Ascog Fernery.
Mausoluem was constructed to house the remains of the
Tuesday 15th November – Morning; Holy Loch – Historic Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum. Afternoon; Cruise Loch Long and Loch Goil.
Dukes and Earls of Argyll, Chiefs of the Clan Campbell
Wednesday 16th November – Greenock – Disembarkation.
Kilmun and Argyll Mausoleum. Built in 1790 the Argyll
and their families. Records indicate that Clan Campbell chiefs have been buried here since the 15th century and the last burial was that of the 10th Duke in 1949. Our final afternoon is spent cruising Loch Long and Loch Goil where we can enjoy the wonderful remoteness of these lochs yet so close to the once industrial Clyde.
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Cabins Elegantly decorated and
All cabins offer ample wardrobe
Each cabin is equipped with a
furnished, Hebridean Princess
space, including a small personal
television; should you wish to view a
safe, drawers and a dressing table,
DVD in your cabin, a number of DVD
hairdryer, trouser press, iron and
players are available for this purpose
to make the most of the
ironing board and tea/coffee-making
and a selection of DVDs may be
available space. Poetically
facilities. There is also a refrigerator
borrowed from the Library.
named after Scottish isles,
stocked with a selection of soft
cabins are individually designed
drinks with fresh milk supplied daily.
All our guests enjoy exactly the same
For your added comfort and
high standard of service irrespective
are amongst the most spacious
relaxation, bathrobes, slippers and a
of cabin grade.
for vessels of her size.
wide range of Molton Brown toiletries
castles, lochs and sounds, they
are also provided.
98 Isle of Iona
Please note that smoking is not allowed in the cabins.
Promenade deck
Isle of Staffa
Isle of Staffa bathroom
Isle of Bute
Isle of Raasay
Isle of Berneray Isle of Bute
Isle of Iona Isle of Staffa
Isle of Raasay
Bed: King-size or twin Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower
Bed: King-size or twin Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower
Balcony cabins
Price category
The roomy Isle of Berneray and Isle of Bute are situated on the port and starboard sides, towards the after end of the Promenade Deck. The private balconies in these cabins ensure total privacy as they cannot be overlooked from the ship, and with teak tables and chairs, they are the perfect place to sit back, relax and take in the breathtaking landscapes. These cabins contain king-size beds, which can be re-arranged as twins. The bathrooms are generous in size with full-size baths and thermostatic showers.
Price category
Situated on the port and starboard sides of the Promenade Deck, towards the after end of the ship, these two superb cabins are fitted with comfortable king-size beds convertible into twins. Large picture windows are perfect for watching the landscapes unfold. Spacious bathrooms contain full-size baths with thermostatic showers.
Bed: Double Bathroom: Thermostatic shower Price category
An excellent port-side cabin in a quiet corner on the same level as the Tiree Lounge and the Library. This extremely comfortable cabin has open views from its windows and is well-equipped with private facilities, including a thermostatic shower.
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Princess deck
Isle of Arran Suite, day room
Isle of Arran Suite, bedroom
Isle of Benbecula
Isle of Arran Suite, bathroom
Isle of Benbecula bathroom
Isle of Arran suite
Balcony cabins
Bed: King-size or twin Bathroom: Full-size bath with separate thermostatic shower
Isle of Barra Isle of Benbecula
Price category
The ship’s largest cabin, the Isle of Arran Suite, is located on the port side of the Princess Deck and, as all windows are on the ship’s side, privacy is assured. It comprises a large, separate day room, a spacious bedroom and a well-equipped bathroom with bath and separate walk-in shower. The bedroom contains a king-size bed, which can be re-arranged as twins, generous wardrobes, drawers, dressing table and a second television.
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Bed: Double Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower Price category
The Isle of Barra and Isle of Benbecula are located on the port and starboard sides forward on the Princess Deck. The balconies, which afford total privacy as they cannot be overlooked from the ship, are fitted with teak tables and chairs for you to enjoy the magnificent scenery. The bathrooms are generous in size with full-size baths and thermostatic showers.
Isle of Coll
Isle of Coll Isle of Colonsay Bed: King-size or twin Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower Price category
Located on the same deck as Reception and the Columba Restaurant, these roomy, forward-facing cabins, at the forward end of the Princess Deck, are fitted with three large picture windows offering excellent views ahead over the bow. The king-size beds can be rearranged as twins. A well deck, some 40 feet (12 m) in length, between the cabins and the forecastle, ensures privacy. Large bathrooms feature full-size baths with thermostatic showers.
Isle of Danna
Isle of Eigg
Isle of Muck
Isle of Rum
Isle of Danna
Isle of Muck
Bed: King-size or twin Bathroom: Thermostatic shower
Bed: Double Bathroom: Thermostatic shower
Price category
The Isle of Danna is a roomy cabin and tucked into a quiet corner on the port side of the Princess Deck. It contains a kingsize bed, which can be converted into twin beds, and two comfortable chairs from which to enjoy panoramic views through full-size picture windows. Charming private facilities include a thermostatic shower.
Price category
This popular, double-bedded cabin, located on the starboard side of the Princess Deck, has three full-size picture windows, which afford superb views and give the room a bright, airy feel. Private facilities include a thermostatic shower.
Isle of Canna Isle of Eigg Isle of Rum Bed: Single Bathroom: Thermostatic shower Price category
These well-appointed cabins lie on the starboard side of the Princess Deck, enjoying good views. With a charming home-from-home feel, they are much in demand. The private facilities include thermostatic showers.
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Waterfront deck
Duart Castle
Kinloch Castle
Torosay Castle
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Duart Castle bathroom
Ardvreck Castle
Sound of Islay
Duart Castle Kinloch Castle Torosay Castle Beds: King-size or twin Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower Price category
These elegant and roomy cabins on the Waterfront Deck are connected by a flight of stairs to the Princess Deck, offering easy access to the embarkation area on the same level for the small boats when going ashore. While Kinloch and Torosay Castle cabins are fitted with two opening portholes, Duart Castle also has a forward-facing porthole. All feature spacious bathrooms with full-size baths and thermostatic showers.
Sound of Jura
Ardvreck Castle Lews Castle Beds: Double Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower Price category Sound of Jura shower
These elegant cabins on the Waterfront Deck are connected by a flight of stairs to the Princess Deck, offering easy access to the embarkation area on the same level for the small boats when going ashore. Both these cabins are fitted with two opening portholes and feature spacious bathrooms with full-size baths and thermostatic showers.
Sound of Islay Sound of Jura Sound of Mull Sound of Sleat Bed: Single Bathroom: Thermostatic shower Sound of Mull
Price category
Situated on the starboard side of the Waterfront Deck, these are roomy single cabins, fitted with two opening portholes. The private facilities feature thermostatic showers. A single staircase links these rooms to the Princess Deck, with direct access by a flight of three steps to the embarkation area for the small boats when going ashore.
Sound of Sleat
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Hebridean deck Loch Crinan Loch Harport Loch Torridon Beds: King-size or twin Bathroom: Thermostatic shower Price category
These charming, interchangeable king-size or twin-bedded cabins on the port and starboard sides of the Hebridean Deck are generous in size. Although there are no windows or portholes, fresh air is circulated day and night by the ship’s forced-air ventilation system. Spacious private facilities include a thermostatic shower.
Loch Buie Loch Scavaig
Loch Crinan
Loch Harport
Loch Scavaig
Loch Torridon
Bed: Single Bathroom: Full-size bath with thermostatic shower Price category
These charming, well-appointed cabins, located on the starboard side of the Hebridean Deck, offer spacious bathrooms and full-size baths with thermostatic showers. As they are not fitted with windows or portholes, fresh air is supplied by the ship’s forced air ventilation system.
Loch Scresort Bed: Single Bathroom: Thermostatic shower Price category
This delightful cabin, located on the starboard side of the Hebridean Deck, is well-appointed. Fresh air is supplied by the ship’s forced-air ventilation system, as this cabin does not have windows or portholes. Loch Scresort has good-sized private facilities with a thermostatic shower.
Loch Scresort
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Good connections mean an easy start to your cruise Our experienced reservations staff can assist you with all your UK travel arrangements, including individually tailored packages, to make your journey to and from Hebridean Princess as relaxed and as stress-free as possible. Whether you would prefer the convenience of a chauffeur transfer, or the comfort of a private airport lounge, we will be only too pleased to cater for your requirements.
Flights Our reservations staff can advise and arrange flights from most UK airports to the airport nearest to your port of embarkation in order to meet with our private coach.
Rail We can arrange standard or first class rail travel from/to your local UK railway station, together with seat reservations where available, to the station nearest to the port of embarkation in order to meet with our private coach.
Airports and railway stations
Door-to-door transfers
For cruises starting and/or ending in Oban and Greenock the nearest transport terminals are Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport.
As an added touch of luxury, our door-to-door service makes it possible for you to enjoy the comfort of chauffeur driven travel from most places in the UK to your embarkation port, or any UK railway station or airport.
For cruises starting and/or ending in Invergordon the nearest transport terminals are Inverness Railway Station and Inverness Airport.
Private coach transfers Guests travelling by rail or air to embark in Greenock, Oban or Invergordon will be collected at the railway stations or airports listed above and transported by private coach to join Hebridean Princess.
Secure car parking A valet car parking facility is provided for cruises staring and ending in Oban and secure car parking is available for Greenock and Invergordon departures.
Hotels You may prefer to extend your cruise with a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay and many of our hotel partners are members of Connoisseurs Scotland or Pride of Britain. Our reservations staff can also recommend hotels elsewhere in the UK.
Luggage transfers The Baggageman provides a luggage collection and delivery service from your home to Hebridean Princess and return. Please contact The Baggageman directly on 01844 264890 or visit www.thebaggageman.com.
Cruises that start and finish in different ports For cruises that embark and disembark in different ports, trouble-free arrangements have been made by our reservations staff. 15th March 2016
12th July 2016
8th August 2016
25th October 2016
Spirit of Scotland
Following the Grand Fleet
Stone Age Scotland
Call of the Clyde
Invergordon to Oban
Oban to Greenock
Oban to Invergordon
Coach transfers will be provided from Inverness Railway Station and Inverness Airport to Invergordon at the start of the cruise, and from Oban to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Oban and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Oban to Invergordon on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Oban.
Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Oban at the start of the cruise, and from Greenock to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Greenock and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Greenock to Oban on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Greenock.
Greenock to Oban
Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Greenock at the start of the cruise, and from Oban to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Greenock and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Oban to Greenock on the day of disembarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Greenock.
Coach transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport to Oban at the start of the cruise, and from Invergordon to Inverness Airport and Inverness Railway Station at the end of the cruise. Car parking is available at Invergordon and a complimentary transfer will be provided from Invergordon to Oban on the day of embarkation for guests wishing to utilise the car parking facility in Invergordon.
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On board A-Z Animals
Dress and footwear
We regret that no animals are permitted on board the vessel other than assistance dogs accompanying disabled passengers.
Daytime: During the day dress is casual. It is advisable to bring suitable clothing for the area in which you will be cruising.
Binoculars
Evening: For dinner in the evening, guests prefer to dress more formally, with a jacket and tie for gentlemen and the equivalent for ladies.
Wildlife lovers may wish to bring binoculars as there are only a limited number on board for loan.
Communications There are iPads in the Library and Wi-Fi access is available. Mobile phones should be switched off in public rooms. The cellular system in the Highlands and Islands is somewhat patchy and reception can be irregular. In an emergency, the ship can be reached by satellite phone, full details of which will be forwarded prior to your cruise.
Dining and restaurant arrangements The Columba Restaurant is sufficiently large for all guests to dine at the same time. The majority of tables are for two, but should guests wish to dine together we shall be delighted to reserve a table for a maximum of eight. Guests travelling on their own will be seated at a larger table, usually hosted by an Officer, unless they indicate otherwise. Special diets: We can cater for most dietary preferences, with the exception of strict kosher and one or two other regimes. Special requests should be included in the Pre-Cruise Questionnaire; our reservations staff will be pleased to advise you.
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Gala evenings: The recommended dress code for Gala evenings is black tie for gentlemen and evening wear for ladies, although this is by no means mandatory. On these evenings, the Officers will wear formal dress. The number of Gala evenings depends on the length of the cruise, but as a guideline, two formal Gala Dinners will be held during a seven-night cruise. Footwear: Non-slip shoes should be worn on deck and in the ship’s small boats when going ashore. Some cruises visit remote locations where heavy-soled shoes or walking boots are recommended for shore visits and serious walking. Footloose cruises: In addition to walking boots, we recommend that guests protect themselves against the unpredictable weather with waterproof clothing; we would stress that jeans are considered unsuitable. A reasonably sized rucksack would also be useful.
Electricity supply The electricity supply on Hebridean Princess is 240v AC and standard UK 3-pin sockets are provided in cabins. If guests wish to use 110v equipment, a transformer will be required – a limited supply is available on board for loan. The ship also carries adaptors for European and US style plugs, obtainable from the Housekeeper.
Going ashore
Payment of shipboard accounts
Since many of the places on our itineraries are unsuitable for berthing alongside, Hebridean Princess is equipped with sturdy and seaworthy tenders to transport guests ashore. Buoyancy aids are provided and must be worn in all small boat operations. Please note, however, that use of the ship’s tenders does require a certain degree of agility. If in doubt, guests with physical disabilities and elderly or infirm passengers should contact our reservations staff before booking.
The currency on board is pounds sterling. Payment of shipboard accounts may be made in sterling, either debit or credit Visa or Mastercards, or cheques; sterling travellers cheques are also accepted.
Our itineraries are planned to allow frequent visits ashore to interesting and unusual places, but participation is by no means compulsory. The emphasis is on pleasing one’s self. As alternatives, we can usually suggest an independent stroll or a more serious walk ashore, perhaps a bike ride or, as many guests have discovered, the relaxation of staying on board.
Gratuities Hebridean operates a strict ‘no tipping’ policy.
Sailing Most sailing on Hebridean Princess is scheduled to take place over breakfast and lunch, apart from overnight sailings to St. Kilda. Smaller ships tend to have a certain amount of vibration and some noise is inevitable when the main engines are running. At night, a sound insulated generator supplies domestic power to the vessel.
Smoking Smoking is not allowed inside the vessel at any time and is not permitted in cabins. Smoking is allowed only on the outer decks, and guests occupying balcony cabins are asked to show consideration to other balcony users.
Stairs Hebridean shop There is a small shop on board selling souvenirs and a basic supply of essentials. Cigarettes and tobacco products are not sold on board. As many of the areas we visit are remote, it may not be possible to purchase specialised items such as specific camera equipment, batteries, etc.
On board leisure Hebridean Princess boasts a wellstocked library, and a card and games area with a range of board games, jigsaws, chess and backgammon. Gym equipment is available on the Waterfront Deck. There is no organised gambling, apart from the occasional ‘frog race’ to raise money for charity. Each cabin is equipped with satellite television; should you wish to view a DVD in your cabin, a number of DVD players are available for this purpose and DVDs may be borrowed from the Library.
Please note that there are no lifts (elevators) on board Hebridean Princess and, although well equipped with handrails, some of the ship’s stairways are steep, particularly those from the Princess Deck to the Waterfront and Hebridean Decks.
Valuables A small safe is provided in your cabin to secure valuables. Hebridean cannot accept any responsibility for loss or damage to guests’ valuables.
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What you need to know Disabled facilities If wheelchair users wish to cruise with us, they must be accompanied by a fare-paying able-bodied companion to assist them on board and ashore. Wheelchair access may be limited. Entrances to the vessel have raised coamings and almost all cabins have a raised lip or step from bedroom to bathroom. Please note that bedroom doors are no wider than 70cm. As the vessel does not carry a supply of narrow wheelchairs for general use, guests should check that their own chair is of a suitable width. Although well equipped with handrails, some of the ship’s stairways are steep, particularly those from the Princess Deck to the Waterfront and Hebridean Decks. As there are no lifts (elevators), the severely disabled or handicapped may find their enjoyment of the cruise impaired if they experience difficulty in moving between decks and over coamings between cabins and bathrooms.
Fitness on board and ashore Many of our visits ashore call for reasonable walking ability if guests are to gain maximum enjoyment from the cruise. As many are to lesser-known and remote places, there are frequently landing stages, steps, slopes and rough ground to contend with. We therefore reserve the right not to take a guest on a particular visit if we feel that it would be beyond his or her capabilities or might affect the enjoyment of fellow guests. If you are uncertain of your ability to participate in these activities, please contact our reservations staff to discuss the route in detail before confirming your booking. Those requiring wheelchairs and/or regular assistance in order to participate in shore visits must be accompanied by a fare-paying, able-bodied companion to assist them.
108
We can usually organise alternative self-guided walks ashore for less agile guests to enjoy at their own pace, or make other arrangements, including taxis, at guests’ own cost.
Health When booking, guests must advise Hebridean of particular health conditions necessitating special precautions and of any subsequent change. It is the responsibility of each guest to inform Hebridean of any prevailing condition which may affect them on board or ashore and, equally, other guests’ ability to enjoy to the full any shore visits during their cruise. Please refer to the section ‘Fitness on board and ashore’ relating to the requirements for ablebodied companions.
Itinerary detail and variations Cruise itineraries are published in good faith but may have to be altered on board to take into account climatic, geographical, political and other factors over which Hebridean or its agents have no control. We shall do our best to minimise alterations and their potential effect on guests. While the Captain will do his utmost to follow the itinerary, he will, where appropriate, adapt the route to suit the prevailing and forecast weather conditions. The Captain’s decision is always final. If such amendments need to be made at short notice, we cannot make any financial adjustments. Please see page 4 of the 2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff for our Conditions of Business.
Medical facilities Guests are advised to pack all necessary medical supplies, as our ports of call are generally off the beaten track and may lack facilities. If guests intend to bring any electrical or electronic medical equipment, they should first check with our reservations staff that it is compatible with the ship’s 240v electricity supply. Hebridean Princess does not routinely carry a doctor as she is never far from land. Guests should ensure that, to their knowledge, they are fit to take a holiday during which immediate medical assistance may not be available. Arrangements to consult a doctor on land can be made at relatively short notice and assistance can be summoned quickly in the event of an emergency. Any medical and repatriation costs will be charged to the guest’s account. The ship’s Officers are trained in first aid and a comprehensive medical supply is kept for emergency use.
Minors We regret that children under the age of nine cannot be accommodated.
Single room occupancy Ten of our cabins are designed and let on a single occupancy basis. Once these cabins have been booked, solo guests requesting a double cabin for single occupancy will be charged a supplement of 85% of the per-person fare for that cabin grade. Please refer to the Cabin facilities and dimensions guide in the inside back cover or contact our reservations staff for further details.
Cabin facilities and dimensions guide • British flag and management • British officers • Lloyd’s registered • Twin screw
BOAT DECK PROMENADE DECK PRINCESS DECK WATERFRONT DECK HEBRIDEAN DECK
• 2,112 gross registered tons • Fully stabilised • 5 passenger decks • Maximum of 50 passengers • Quick launch & recovery
The ship was especially designed and built to sail in the waters of the
Bath with shower Walk in shower (sq ft)
Day room/ balcony (m2)
Day room/ balcony (sq ft)
4.0
43.1
12.4
133.4
31.6
340.1
190.5
3.3
35.5
5.0
53.8
26.0
279.8
17.7
190.5
3.3
35.5
5.0
53.8
26.0
279.8
12.8
137.7
4.8
51.6
4.8
51.6
22.4
240.9
12.8
137.7
4.8
51.6
4.8
51.6
22.4
240.9
15.2
163.6
4.1
44.1
19.3
207.7
15.2
163.6
4.1
44.1
19.3
207.7
19.3
207.7
3.3
35.5
22.6
243.2
19.3
207.7
3.3
35.5
22.6
243.2
19.8
213.1
2.8
30.1
22.6
243.2
Total private floor size (sq ft)
Bath with shower Walk in shower (m2)
163.6
17.7
Total private floor size (m2)
Bedroom (sq ft)
15.2
Bedroom (m2)
Interchangeable twin/king size bed
Single bed
Double/king size bed
Bath
Portholes
Windows
Private balcony
Separate day room
Deck location
Price category
Shower
Scottish Western Isles and has proven her ability over the years.
tender system
Double/Twin Cabins Isle of Arran Suite Isle of Berneray Isle of Bute Isle of Barra Isle of Benbecula Isle of Coll Isle of Colonsay Isle of Iona Isle of Staffa Isle of Danna
• • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Duart Castle Kinloch Castle Torosay Castle Ardvreck Castle Lews Castle Isle of Muck Isle of Raasay
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• •
Loch Crinan Loch Harport Loch Torridon
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
11.5
123.7
4.2
45.2
15.7
168.9
13.4
144.2
4.8
51.6
18.2
195.8
13.0
139.9
4.8
51.6
17.8
191.5
12.2
131.3
2.9
31.2
15.1
162.5
12.2
131.3
2.9
31.2
15.1
162.5
13.1
141.0
3.0
32.2
16.1
173.2
11.9
128.1
3.1
33.3
15.0
161.4
14.0
150.6
3.4
36.5
17.4
187.1
12.9
138.8
3.3
35.5
16.2
174.3
11.1
119.4
3.1
33.3
14.2
152.7
8.6
92.5
2.7
29.0
11.3
121.5
8.6
92.5
2.9
31.2
11.5
123.7
Single Cabins Isle of Canna Isle of Eigg Isle of Rum Sound of Islay Sound of Jura Sound of Mull Sound of Sleat Loch Buie Loch Scavaig Loch Scresort
• • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • •
9.2
99.0
1.9
20.4
11.1
119.4
11.0
118.4
2.2
23.6
13.2
142.0
10.5
113.0
2.4
25.8
12.9
138.8
11.0
118.4
2.2
23.6
13.2
142.0
9.9
106.5
2.2
23.6
12.1
130.1
9.0
96.9
3.0
32.3
12.0
129.2
9.0
96.9
3.0
32.3
12.0
129.2
10.2
109.7
3.2
34.4
13.4
144.1
All sizes are approximate
109
Deck plans Port Motor Lifeboat Loungers & chairs
Guests’ forward viewing area
Funnel
Open deck area
Loungers & chairs Loungers & chairs
Guests’ forward viewing area
Motor Lifeboat
Starboard
Boat Deck (No 5 Deck level)
Port Promenade Deck (partially covered)
Look-Out Lounge Library
Isle of Raasay
Isle of Iona
Ladies Tiree Lounge
Skye Deck (open deck with tables and chairs)
Skye Bar
Isle of Bute
Balcony
Gents
Promenade Deck (partially covered)
Conservatory
Tiree Bar
Isle of Staffa
Isle of Berneray
Balcony
Starboard
Promenade Deck (No 4 Deck level) B
Isle of Arran Suite
Isle of Danna
Viewing Balcony Balcony
Port Isle of Barra
Shop
Columba Restaurant
Isle of Coll
Reception Foyer
Isle of Colonsay
Isle of Canna
Isle of Eigg
Isle of Rum
Isle of Muck
Isle of Viewing Balcony Balcony Benbecula
Starboard
Princess Deck (No 3 Deck level) L
Port Duart Castle
Kinloch Castle
Torosay Castle
Landing stage for small boats through side of ship
Card and Games Area
Lews Castle
Ardvreck Castle
Sound of Mull
Sound of Islay
Sound of Jura
Sound of Sleat
Landing stage for small boats through side of ship
Starboard
Gym equipment
Waterfront Deck (No 2 Deck level)
Port Loch Torridon
Loch Crinan
Loch Scresort
Loch Harport
Loch Loch Buie Scavaig
Starboard
Hebridean Deck (No 1 Deck level)
Hebridean Island Cruises Tel: 01756 704704 | www.hebridean.co.uk
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2016 Cruise Diary & Tariff Details of the all-inclusive prices can be found on page 2 of the 2016 Hebridean Princess Cruise Directory.
SINGLE CABINS Prices are per person in pounds sterling. There is currently no Value Added Tax (VAT) on travel. Should VAT become chargeable, prices will be amended accordingly.
2
Departure Date
Departure Day
Number of Nights
1st March
Tuesday
6
Cruise Name Doon The Watter
Price Category
Price Category
Price Category
Pri Cate
Loch Buie Loch Scavaig Loch Scresort
Sound of Islay Sound of Jura Sound of Mull Sound of Sleat
Isle of Canna Isle of Eigg Isle of Rum
Loch C Loch H Loch To
£2,270
£3,230
£3,760
£1,7
Page 20
7th March
Monday
4
Islands of the Clyde
22
£1,590
£2,260
£2,630
£1,2
11th March
Friday
4
Lochs of Argyll
24
£1,590
£2,260
£2,630
£1,2
15th March
Tuesday
7
Spirit of Scotland
26
£3,470
£4,930
£5,750
£2,6
22nd March
Tuesday
7
Easter in the Hebrides
28
£3,600
£5,110
£5,960
£2,7
29th March
Tuesday
7
Escape to the Highlands and Islands
30
£3,600
£5,110
£5,960
£2,7
5th April
Tuesday
7
Flavours of Scotland
32
£4,420
£6,270
£7,310
£3,3
12th April
Tuesday
7
Castles and Gardens of the North
34
£4,480
£6,360
£7,420
£3,3
19th April
Tuesday
7
Springtime Surprise
36
£4,920
£6,990
£8,150
£3,7
26th April
Tuesday
7
Footloose through the Inner Isles
38
£5,300
£7,520
£8,780
£4,0
3rd May
Tuesday
7
Westward to Harris and Lewis
40
£5,360
£7,610
£8,880
£4,0
10th May
Tuesday
7
Voyage to the Outer Isles
42
£5,360
£7,610
£8,880
£4,0
17th May
Tuesday
7
Northern Ireland Explorer
44
£5,680
£8,060
£9,400
£4,3
24th May
Tuesday
7
Call of the Wild
46
£5,680
£8,060
£9,400
£4,3
31st May
Tuesday
7
St Kilda, Islands on the Edge
48
£6,240
£8,860
£10,340
£4,7
7th June
Tuesday
7
Scotland in Colour
50
£5,990
£8,510
£9,920
£4,5
14th June
Tuesday
7
Footloose in the Outer Isles
52
£6,240
£8,860
£10,340
£4,7
21st June
Tuesday
7
Manx Heritage
54
£5,990
£8,510
£9,920
£4,5
28th June
Tuesday
7
The Hebridean Outposts of St Kilda
56
£6,240
£8,860
£10,340
£4,7
5th July
Tuesday
7
Hebridean Symphony
58
£5,990
£8,510
£9,920
£4,5
12th July
Tuesday
9
Following the Grand Fleet
60
£7,700
£10,940
£12,760
£5,8
21st July
Thursday
9
Nordic Outposts
62
£7,700
£10,940
£12,760
£5,8
30th July
Saturday
9
Footloose in the Far North
64
£7,940
£11,280
£13,160
£6,0
8th August
Monday
8
Stone Age Scotland
66
£6,850
£9,720
£11,340
£5,1
16th August
Tuesday
7
Hidden Isles of the Hebrides
68
£5,680
£8,060
£9,400
£4,3
23rd August
Tuesday
7
Wonders of the Western Isles
70
£5,680
£8,060
£9,400
£4,3
30th August
Tuesday
7
Scenic Sutherland
72
£5,680
£8,060
£9,400
£4,3
6th September
Tuesday
4
Argyll's Atlantic Islands
74
£3,070
£4,350
£5,080
£2,3
10th September Saturday
5
Highlights of the Inner Hebrides
76
£3,830
£5,440
£6,340
£2,9
15th September Thursday
5
Taste of the Outer Isles
78
£3,830
£5,440
£6,340
£2,9
20th September Tuesday
7
Westward to Harris and Lewis
80
£5,360
£7,610
£8,880
£4,0
27th September Tuesday
7
Voyage to the Outer Isles
82
£5,360
£7,610
£8,880
£4,0
4th October
Tuesday
7
Flavours of Scotland
84
£4,730
£6,720
£7,840
£3,5
11th October
Tuesday
7
Highland Heritage
86
£4,100
£5,820
£6,790
£3,
18th October
Tuesday
7
Autumn Surprise
88
£4,100
£5,820
£6,790
£3,
25th October
Tuesday
7
Call of the Clyde
90
£3,470
£4,930
£5,750
£2,6
1st November
Tuesday
7
Grand Houses and Castles of the Clyde
92
£3,790
£5,370
£6,270
£2,8
8th November
Tuesday
4
Islands of the Clyde
94
£1,590
£2,260
£2,630
£1,2
12th November
Saturday
4
Lochs of Argyll
96
£1,590
£2,260
£2,630
£1,2
HP 2016 TARIFF_Layout 1 21/04/2015 10:34 Page 3
CABINS WITH PRIVATE BALCONIES
CABINS WITH DOUBLE/TWIN BEDS
ce gory
Canna f Eigg f Rum
Price Category
Price Category
Price Category
Price Category
Loch Crinan Ardvreck Castle Duart Castle Loch Harport Lews Castle Kinloch Castle Loch Torridon Isle of Muck Torosay Castle Isle of Raasay
Isle of Danna
SUITE
Price Category
Isle of Coll Isle of Barra Isle of Berneray Isle of Bute Isle of Colonsay Isle of Benbecula Isle of Iona Isle of Staffa
760
£1,720
£2,410
£2,580
£3,440
£3,440
£3,440
£3,960
630
£1,210
£1,690
£1,810
£2,410
£2,410
£2,410
630
£1,210
£1,690
£1,810
£2,410
£2,410
£2,410
Isle of Arran
Departure Departure Day Date £3,960
Tuesday
£2,770
£2,770
Monday
7th March
£2,770
£2,770
Friday
11th March
1st March
750
£2,630
£3,680
£3,940
£5,260
£5,260
£5,260
£6,040
£6,040
Tuesday
15th March
960
£2,730
£3,810
£4,090
£5,450
£5,450
£5,450
£6,260
£6,260
Tuesday
22nd March
960
£2,730
£3,810
£4,090
£5,450
£5,450
£5,450
£6,260
£6,260
Tuesday
29th March
310
£3,350
£4,680
£5,020
£6,690
£6,690
£6,690
£7,690
£7,690
Tuesday
5th April
420
£3,390
£4,750
£5,090
£6,780
£6,780
£6,780
£7,800
£7,800
Tuesday
12th April
150
£3,730
£5,220
£5,590
£7,450
£7,450
£7,450
£8,570
£8,570
Tuesday
19th April
780
£4,010
£5,620
£6,020
£8,020
£8,020
£8,020
£9,230
£9,230
Tuesday
26th April
880
£4,060
£5,680
£6,090
£8,120
£8,120
£8,120
£9,340
£9,340
Tuesday
3rd May
880
£4,060
£5,680
£6,090
£8,120
£8,120
£8,120
£9,340
£9,340
Tuesday
10th May
400
£4,300
£6,020
£6,450
£8,600
£8,600
£8,600
£9,890
£9,890
Tuesday
17th May
400
£4,300
£6,020
£6,450
£8,600
£8,600
£8,600
£9,890
£9,890
Tuesday
24th May
340
£4,730
£6,620
£7,090
£9,460
£9,460
£9,460
£10,870
£10,870
Tuesday
31st May
920
£4,540
£6,350
£6,810
£9,070
£9,070
£9,070
£10,430
£10,430
Tuesday
7th June
340
£4,730
£6,620
£7,090
£9,460
£9,460
£9,460
£10,870
£10,870
Tuesday
14th June
920
£4,540
£6,350
£6,810
£9,070
£9,070
£9,070
£10,430
£10,430
Tuesday
21st June
340
£4,730
£6,620
£7,090
£9,460
£9,460
£9,460
£10,870
£10,870
Tuesday
28th June
920
£4,540
£6,350
£6,810
£9,070
£9,070
£9,070
£10,430
£10,430
Tuesday
5th July
760
£5,830
£8,170
£8,750
£11,660
£11,660
£11,660
£13,410
£13,410
Tuesday
12th July
760
£5,830
£8,170
£8,750
£11,660
£11,660
£11,660
£13,410
£13,410
Thursday 21st July
160
£6,020
£8,420
£9,030
£12,030
£12,030
£12,030
£13,840
£13,840
Saturday
30th July
340
£5,190
£7,260
£7,780
£10,370
£10,370
£10,370
£11,920
£11,920
Monday
8th August
400
£4,300
£6,020
£6,450
£8,600
£8,600
£8,600
£9,890
£9,890
Tuesday
16th August
400
£4,300
£6,020
£6,450
£8,600
£8,600
£8,600
£9,890
£9,890
Tuesday
23rd August
400
£4,300
£6,020
£6,450
£8,600
£8,600
£8,600
£9,890
£9,890
Tuesday
30th August
080
£2,320
£3,250
£3,480
£4,640
£4,640
£4,640
£5,340
£5,340
Tuesday
6th September
340
£2,900
£4,060
£4,350
£5,800
£5,800
£5,800
£6,670
£6,670
Saturday
10th September
340
£2,900
£4,060
£4,350
£5,800
£5,800
£5,800
£6,670
£6,670
Thursday 15th September
880
£4,060
£5,680
£6,090
£8,120
£8,120
£8,120
£9,340
£9,340
Tuesday
20th September
880
£4,060
£5,680
£6,090
£8,120
£8,120
£8,120
£9,340
£9,340
Tuesday
27th September
840
£3,580
£5,020
£5,370
£7,160
£7,160
£7,160
£8,240
£8,240
Tuesday
4th October
790
£3,110
£4,350
£4,660
£6,210
£6,210
£6,210
£7,140
£7,140
Tuesday
11th October
790
£3,110
£4,350
£4,660
£6,210
£6,210
£6,210
£7,140
£7,140
Tuesday
18th October
750
£2,630
£3,680
£3,940
£5,260
£5,260
£5,260
£6,040
£6,040
Tuesday
25th October
270
£2,870
£4,010
£4,300
£5,730
£5,730
£5,730
£6,590
£6,590
Tuesday
1st November
630
£1,210
£1,690
£1,810
£2,410
£2,410
£2,410
£2,770
£2,770
Tuesday
8th November
630
£1,210
£1,690
£1,810
£2,410
£2,410
£2,410
£2,770
£2,770
Saturday
12th November
3
HP 2016 TARIFF_Layout 1 21/04/2015 10:34 Page 4
All Leisure Holidays ltd Conditions of Business Fair Trading Conditions issued March 2015
Travel with Confidence 1 THE CONTRACT
1.1 The contract is between All Leisure Holidays Limited trading as ‘Hebridean Island Cruises’ (‘The Company’) and each person booking with the Company (including the parents or guardian of any person under 18 years of age) (‘the Passengers’). Please note that information contained in the section headed ‘General Information’ in our brochure or in these or any other comparable sections, and any other relevant information on our website also forms part of your contract with the Company. 1.2 The Lead Passenger warrants as a fundamental term of the contract that he/she has read and agrees these terms and conditions and has the authority by each Passenger named on the confirmation invoice to be bound by them. Unless otherwise indicated, the Lead Passenger warrants that the Passenger information given may be used by the Company or its partners for future marketing purposes. 1.3 A binding contract comes in to place when you pay the full deposit (or where appropriate the full price) and a confirmation invoice is issued even if the Company is unable to confirm all holiday details (e.g. flights) at the time of booking. A confirmation invoice will be sent to the Lead Passenger. There is no charge for any payment made by debit or payment of a deposit by credit or charge but a 2% charge will be made for any subsequent payments made by credit or charge card to cover the charges made by credit card companies. 1.4 All details on the confirmation invoice (and on any additional documents produced by the Company) will be deemed to have been accepted unless the Company receives notification to the contrary from the Lead Passenger immediately that the confirmation invoice is received. If you have not received your confirmation invoice within 7 days of booking your cruise please contact us immediately. If any errors are not immediately identified and reported, any cost of rectifying the same at a subsequent date must be met by the Passenger. Please note that Passengers not following these instructions will be fully liable for any costs that may subsequently be incurred in rectifying errors at a later date. In the case of flight tickets and e-tickets these must be checked by Passengers and the Company must be notified of any errors immediately. 1.5 It is expressly agreed that all Passengers and their luggage are carried subject to the Conditions of Carriage of the airlines and shipping company used, some of which limit or exclude liability. Any compensation payable by the Company for non-performance or improper performance of land, sea and air carriage services shall be limited in accordance with the international conventions which govern such services by the carrier. 1.6 For bookings made through an approved ABTA Travel Agent, the Agent holds any monies paid on behalf of the Company. 1.7 The Company reserves the right to cancel bookings and levy cancellation charges on the scale in section 7 below if balance payments are not received in full at least 16 weeks before departure or by return post/credit or debit card for bookings taken less than 17 weeks before departure. 1.8 Travel insurance (where purchased through us or directly with a third party) does not form part of your contract with the Company or of any ‘package’.
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1.9 The contract and all other proceedings arising out of or in connection with it shall be governed by English law and the jurisdiction of the English courts. Passengers may, however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if they so wish. If and in so far as a claim against the Company is governed by The Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1996 (LLMC 96) as amended by SI 1998/1258 in respect of river cruises or EU Regulation 392/2009 relating to the Liability of carriers of passengers by sea in the event of accidents (EU 392/2009) and the Athens Convention 2002 for international carriage by sea or in respect of non-international carriage by sea The Merchant Shipping (Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea) Order 2014 in the Court competent to hear such claims. 2 THE BOOKING PROCESS 2.1 A deposit of 25% of the total fare due, or full payment for bookings taken within 119 days of departure, is due on booking. A higher amount may be payable if any supplier(s) require additional payments for a service prior to the balance due date. Payment of a deposit means acceptance of these Booking Conditions. The Company takes no responsibility for credit card or foreign currency transaction processing fees levied by issuing banks. 2.2 If the deposit and/or balance are not paid on time, the Company reserves the right to cancel the contract and apply any cancellation charges set out in section 8. 2.3 Passengers must be fit to travel. Any passengers with reduced mobility or with other physical or mental disabilities or conditions which may require special treatment or assistance (including Passengers who may require the use of a wheelchair) must advise the Company prior to the booking. They may be required to complete a questionnaire and upon receipt of which they may be asked to accept additional Booking Conditions before a confirmation invoice is issued and a contract entered into. See section 10. 2.4 The Company may (at its discretion) offer Passengers at the time of booking a guaranteed cabin booking (a ‘Guarantee Cabin’). Under such offers a Passenger is guaranteed to receive a cabin of a specified type although the precise location of the cabin is at the Company’s discretion. The Company may (at its discretion) upgrade a Guarantee Cabin to a higher category cabin at no additional cost to the Passenger. The Company may allocate specific cabins under guarantee offers at any time up until the Passenger arrives on the vessel at the port of embarkation. Once Guarantee Cabins have been allocated, the Company is unable to accept Passenger change requests. If Passengers book one or more back-to-back cruises and one or more cruise includes Guarantee Cabins, it is possible that Passengers may be allocated different cabins on each cruise and may need to move between cabins on changeover day(s). 3 PRICES AND SURCHARGES 3.1 The Company reserves the right to alter the published prices of any of the holidays. Passengers will be advised of the current price of the holiday that they wish to book before any contract is confirmed. The price of the travel arrangements may change after booking due to increase in costs. The Company undertakes that no changes to the price will be made within 30 days of departure. 3.2 The Company will absorb and the Passenger will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to up to 2% of the total holiday cost (excluding insurance premiums and/or any amendment charges). The Company may, at its discretion, and subject to the approval of the relevant
authority(ies), charge the Passenger any increase above 2% in respect of (i) transportation costs, including the cost of fuel, (ii) dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or (iii) the exchange rate applied to the package. If the increase is more than 10% of the price of their travel arrangements, Passengers will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any insurance premiums and amendment charges. If the Company is able to offer another holiday and this alternative holiday is of equivalent or higher price to the original holiday booked, then the Passenger will not have to pay more. If the alternative holiday is a lower price, the Passenger will be refunded the difference. Should Passengers decide to cancel their holiday under these circumstances, they must to do so within 14 days of the date of the invoice for the additional charge or such other period as may be specified. 3.3 Should the total cost to the Company of a Passenger’s holiday fall by more than 2% due to any of the changes mentioned above then the Company will pass on to Passengers any refund due. Passengers should note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some changes in local currency costs may have no impact on the price of Passengers’ travel due to contractual and other protection in place. 3.4 All outstanding balances on on-board accounts must be settled in full before the Passenger disembarks the vessel. If any Passenger fails to settle their on-board account then the Company shall be entitled to take whatever steps may be necessary to recover the monies due and shall be entitled to pass on any costs incurred in doing so. 4 OUR RESPONSIBILITY AND SHORE EXCURSIONS 4.1 Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret that the Company cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss as a result of Force Majeure. In this Contract, “Force Majeure” includes any event which the Company or any supplier of the service(s) in question could not even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include (whether actual or threatened) war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, technical problems with transport, closure of airports, ports or airspace, changes of schedules by airlines, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, health risks and pandemics, fire, closed or congested airports or ports and all similar events outside the control of the Company and our suppliers. 4.2 The Company is not responsible for any improper or non-performance of any services of the package holiday which are wholly attributable to the fault of the Passenger, the unforeseeable or unavoidable act or omission of a third party unconnected with the provision of any of the services to be provided under the Contract; unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the control of the Company and/or the relevant supplier, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised including (but not limited to) an event of Force Majeure; or any event which the Company and / or relevant suppliers could not even with all due care have foreseen or forestalled. In the event that the Company is responsible for any death, injury or illness caused by the negligent acts and / or omissions of its suppliers of services which form part of the Package then the Company limits its liability, where applicable, by the International Conventions.
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4.3 Where death and or personal injury and or loss of or damage to property occurs during carriage by air or by sea then the liability and the extent of damages recoverable will be dealt with by their conditions of carriage and the International Conventions set out in sections 11 and 12 and not otherwise. 4.4 Where there is any loss of or damage to property including luggage which is not covered by any International Convention and where liability is not limited by reference to any enactment, terms or conditions, then any legal liability that the Company may have for any such losses or damage will not exceed £500 per Passenger. 4.5 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary elsewhere in this Contract, the Company shall not in any circumstances be liable to the Passenger for any loss or anticipated loss of profit, loss of revenue, loss of use loss of contract or other opportunity nor for any other consequential or indirect loss or damage of a similar nature. 4.6 Where the Company provides or sells a shore excursion to the Passenger the Passenger shall be bound by the terms and conditions of the supplier of the shore excursion supplier. 4.7 The Company does not perform shore excursions which it sells to Passengers. These are performed by local operators who may themselves engage the services of third party suppliers. The Company will at all times endeavour to appoint reputable and competent operators who comply with all prevailing local rules, regulations and standards. It should be noted that, outside the UK, standards of hygiene, accommodation and transport might differ from comparable standards in the UK. 4.8 Local laws and regulations of the relevant country will be applied to assess the performance of suppliers and the Company. The Company’s legal obligations will have been performed if the supplier has complied with local laws and regulations even if the laws of England have not been met. 4.9 In the event of an excursion being cancelled, the Company will take all reasonable steps to ensure that Passengers are offered a choice of an alternative excursion and/or a full refund in the case of supplementary excursions. 4.10 The Company is not responsible for the performance of and has no liability for shore excursions which are not sold by the Company. Passengers are advised to take great care in purchasing shore excursions from third parties in the ports to ensure they are safe and are covered by insurance. 5 INSURANCE 5.1 Where Passengers purchase insurance through the Company, the Company is acting as an agent for the named insurance provider and that the purchase will be subject to that insurance provider’s terms and conditions which will be sent to them with their policy documents or provided in advance of purchase upon request. Valid for UK Residents only. 5.2 It is a condition of booking that each passenger has adequate travel insurance in force for the entire duration of the holiday. If Passengers do not purchase the insurance offered by the Company, then details of the alternative insurance policy (which must at a minimum cover medical charges, cancellation, curtailment, evacuation (from the vessel) and repatriation costs for not less than £5 million) must be provided at the time of booking if possible, but no later than six months prior to the scheduled date of departure or at the time of booking if bookings are made within six months of the date of departure.
6 PASSPORTS & VISAS 6.1 It is the responsibility of all Passengers to check and fulfil the passport, visa, and immigration requirements applicable to their itinerary. The Company can only provide general information and Passengers must check requirements for their own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/or Consulates as applicable. Our Consular Services Department can obtain visas for British Citizens for the countries that require them prior to departure. Other nationalities should check passport and visa requirements for their own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies or Consulates as applicable. 6.2 Passengers must understand that passport, visa and immigration requirements do change. Passengers are responsible for checking the up to date position in good time before departure. 6.3 For Passengers leaving the UK, the Company requires a full 10 year British passport valid for at least six months after the date of return for all UK citizens. Passengers who are not British citizens or who hold a non British passport, must check passport and visa requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of the country(ies) to or through which they intend to travel. 6.4 All Passengers must ensure that they have the correct travel documents in their possession before departure. Passengers may incur fines if they fail to comply with documentation or visa requirements. The Company will re-charge to the Passenger any such fines that have been paid by the Company on the Passenger’s behalf. 6.5 The Company does not accept any responsibility for Passengers who are denied disembarkation or are unable to travel, or who incur any other loss because they fail to comply with any passport, visa, or immigration requirements. Cancellation of any part of the holiday that arises due to problems with visa/passport, or immigration requirements will be subject to cancellation charges set out in section 8. 7 CHANGES TO BOOKING DETAILS BY PASSENGERS 7.1 The Company will do its utmost to ensure that amendments requested by Passengers are accommodated, but the Company makes no guarantee that these requests will be met. Any change request must be made in writing by the Lead Passenger and the Company reserves the right to pass on the costs of making any such changes. Passengers must be aware that charges associated with amendments are likely to increase nearer to the date of departure. 7.2 Additional Passengers or cruises may be added to a booking at any time subject to availability. In each case a deposit (or full payment, as relevant) per additional Passenger will be required by the Company and all other booking conditions must be met before the new contract exists. 7.3 Requests for significant amendments to booking details (e.g. change of ship or sail date) received before the balance due date will be treated as a new booking. At the Company’s sole discretion, the original booking will either be deemed cancelled (and be subject to the cancellation charges set out in section 8), or will be deemed amended (and be subject to an amendment fee of £75 per Passenger). Any deposit paid, discount applied or promotion applicable to a booking that is cancelled or amended will only be transferred to a new booking at the Company’s discretion. 7.4 For minor amendments to booking details received before the balance due date (e.g. Passenger name changes) an administration charge of £50 per Passenger affected will be
charged. If name changes are required to scheduled flight details, the charge may be significantly more than £50 per Passenger and will be quoted on request. Passengers should also be aware that airlines may not allow transfer of Passenger names and in such cases a flight booking might need to be cancelled and rebooked, subject to availability, and at the Passenger’s expense. 7.5 After an amendment is applied a new confirmation invoice will be issued at which point the contract will be deemed to be amended accordingly. 8 CANCELLATION BY A PASSENGER 8.1 A Passenger may cancel a booking at any time. Cancellation will take effect when the Company has received written notice of cancellation signed by the Lead Passenger. Cancellation charges payable to the Company are: Period before departure within which the Company receives notice
Cancellation charge per passenger
After payment of deposit
Loss of deposit
112 to 60 days before departure
60% of invoiced charge
59 to 29 days before departure
90% of invoiced charge
28 days before departure up to date
100% of invoiced charge
8.2 A Passenger will not have a right to exclusive occupancy of a cabin with two or more berths unless any applicable single occupancy premium has been paid. In the event of a Passenger becoming a single occupant of such a cabin due to a cancellation, he/she will become liable to pay any applicable single occupancy premium. Passengers are advised that certain reasons for cancellation are covered by their travel insurance. 9 CANCELLATION OR ALTERATION BY THE COMPANY 9.1 The Company reserves the right at its sole and absolute discretion at any time to cancel, postpone or alter without prior notice or consultation any cruise in whole or in part in order to safeguard its Passengers, its crew, its employees or the vessel in the event of war or threat of war, political unrest, terrorist activity or threat of terrorist activity, nuclear disaster, riots, civil strife, adverse weather conditions or other similar events (‘Force Majeure’) or for any other valid operational reason. If the majority of ports that the Company aims to visit during any one cruise have to be changed on Foreign Office advice before the cruise commences, the Company undertakes to offer Passengers an alternative cruise or refund of the cost of their cruise in full. 9.2 If under clause 9.1 the Company cancels a cruise before the scheduled departure date it will offer, when possible, a subsequent alternative departure of similar standard (which must be accepted in writing within 14 days of the offer being made), or the choice of a full refund of all monies paid. 9.3 If under clause 9.1 the Company cancels a cruise after the scheduled departure date, it will return all Passengers as soon as practicable to the UK and make a proportional refund for any unused services and any nonrecoverable expenses incurred. 9.4 In any of the circumstances mentioned above the Company shall not be liable to pay any compensation, nor shall Passengers have any further claim against the Company.
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All Leisure Holidays ltd Conditions of Business – continued 9.5 The Company and the Master of the ship are unable to guarantee that the ship will call at every advertised port or follow every part of the advertised route. They will at all times endeavour to maintain the advertised programme but reserve the right at their sole discretion to make any alternations they deem necessary. 9.6 The company also reserves the right to cancel any cruise by giving written notice at least eight weeks before departure if sales of that departure have not reached 70% of capacity. Under such circumstances clause 9.2 will apply and the Company shall not be liable to pay compensation, nor shall Passengers have any further claim against the Company. 9.7 The Company reserves the right at its sole and absolute discretion to use a substitute ship of similar standard to the original ship should it prove necessary to do so. 9.8 In addition to the rights of the Company, aircraft and ship’s Captains always have the right at their absolute discretion to vary any planned routing without prior notice or consultation if they deem it necessary to do so in the interests of safety. 9.9 If for any reason details of a cruise have to be altered before departure (and subject to Clause 9.1) the Company will notify the Lead Passenger as soon as possible. 9.10 The Company will not be held responsible for, nor have liability in respect of, delays caused by third parties during passage through sea areas controlled by vessel traffic schemes, canals, rivers or any other navigable waterways. 10 FITNESS TO TRAVEL ON THE CRUISE SHIP, PREGNANCY, BEHAVIOUR, DISABILITY OR REDUCED MOBILITY, MEDICAL AND MOBILITY EQUIPMENT 10.1 The Company’s priority is the comfort and safety of its Passengers who are asked to provide prior to booking as much information as possible regarding any assistance that may be required in the port, during embarkation and on board the vessel. This information is required in order to ensure that Passengers are carried safely and in accordance with applicable safety requirements established by competent authorities including flag state. 10.2 Every Passenger warrants that he/she is fit to travel by sea and inland waterways and that his conduct or condition will not impair the safety of the ship or inconvenience other passengers. The Company reserves the right to require any Passenger to produce medical evidence of fitness to travel in order to assess whether that Passenger can be carried safely in accordance with applicable international, EU or national laws. 10.3 The Company and the carrier are entitled to administer a health questionnaire prior to boarding. All Passengers must follow the vessels instructions and procedures relating to all matters including health, safety, hygiene and security. Any Passenger boarding a ship at initial embarkation who has not filled in the required pre-boarding health declaration must inform the Company of any sickness and/or diarrhoea experienced less than 72 hours prior to embarkation. In the interest of Passenger’s safety the Company reserves the right at its discretion, to refuse boarding. In such circumstances the Company shall not be liable to pay any compensation, nor shall Passengers have any further claim against the Company. The Company and the carrier are entitled to request Passengers to remain in their cabins in the event of illness which is or may be infectious. Pregnant women are highly recommended to seek medical advice prior to travel at any stage of their pregnancy. Women who are up to 23 weeks
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pregnant at the end of the cruise are required to produce a medical certificate of fitness to travel. The Company Ships cannot for safety reasons carry pregnant Passengers of 24 weeks or more by the end of the cruise. The Company and the Carrier reserves the right to request a medical certificate at any stage of pregnancy and to refuse passage if the Company and/or the Master are not satisfied that the Passenger will be safe during the passage. 10.4 In the event of illness or accident, Passengers may have to be landed ashore by the Company and/or Master for medical treatment. The Company makes no representations regarding the quality of medical treatment at any port of call or at the place at which the Passenger is landed. Medical facilities and standards vary from port to port and the Company makes no representations or warranties in relation to such standards. 10.5 Passengers should be aware of the following important information: • The ship does not have disabled cabins or cabins that accommodate wheelchairs • Cabin door widths are too small for wheelchairs and only collapsible wheelchairs can be stored in cabins • Only collapsible wheelchairs can be carried on board the ship • There is no lift on board • Each external door has a lip and therefore wheelchairs cannot be used freely around the vessel therefore access around the vessel is restricted and limited • The ship is not suitable for full time wheelchair users • Passengers can only board the ship by foot and there is no alternative access • The vessel may be moored alongside another ship which may be the only means of access to the ship • There is no doctor on board the ship • There are qualified first aiders who can give limited assistance • For reasons of health and safety mobility scooters may not be brought on board the ship • Passengers who need assistance at the port must notify the Company at the time of booking and in no case less than 48 hours prior to boarding and present for embarkation at the designated place at the specified time. 10.6 For the purposes of EU 1177/2010 which applies to cruises where the first port of embarkation is in the EU Disabled Person’ or ‘Person with Reduced Mobility’ includes any person whose mobility when using transport is reduced as a result of any physical disability (sensory or locomotor, permanent or temporary) intellectual or psychosocial disability or impairment, or any other cause of disability, as a result of age, and whose situation needs appropriate attention and adaption to his particular needs for the service made available to all passengers. Passengers with Reduced Mobility and or Disabilities must advise at the time of booking of their specific needs with regard to accommodation, seating or services required from the carrier or terminal operator, or their need to bring medical equipment, or to bring a recognised assistance dog on board the vessel or of any other known disabilities or who in the Carrier’s and or Master’s opinion is unfit or unable to travel or anyone whose condition may constitute a danger to themselves or others on board on the grounds of safety. 10.7 The requirement to notify the Company at the time of booking of any medical equipment required on board is to ensure that the medical equipment can be lawfully carried and/or carried safely. It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure that all medical equipment is in good working order and for arranging enough equipment and supplies to last the entire voyage. The ship does not carry any replacement and access to shore side care and equipment may be
difficult and expensive. Passengers must be able to operate all equipment. 10.8 If there are any particular conditions, Disabled or Reduced Mobility which require personal care or supervision then such personal care or supervision must be organised by the Passenger and at the passenger’s expense. The vessel is unable to provide respite services, one to one personal care or supervision or any other form of carer for physical, psychiatric or other conditions. 10.9 In accordance with EU 1177/2010 where it is strictly necessary for the safety of the Passenger, the Company and or the carrier can require a Disabled passenger or Person with Reduced Mobility before it accepts the booking that a Passenger is assisted by an accompanying person who is fit and able to provide the assistance required. 10.10 Assistance dogs are subject to national and EU Regulations regarding travel. It is the passenger’s responsibility to check the position prior to the cruise and to be satisfied that the assistance dog can be carried to the ports of embarkation and disembarkation and that the dog is not prohibited from going ashore at the various ports of call. Assistance dogs must have all necessary papers and comply with national Regulations regarding health, inoculations, training and travel. 10.11 Whilst the Company makes every effort to accommodate all Passengers’ needs, Passengers using wheelchairs may have restricted access in certain areas of the ship and may be unable to go ashore in certain ports, particularly those that require the use of tenders. 10.12 The Company does not accept any responsibility for Passengers unable to travel, or who incur any other loss because they fail to comply with any health formalities. The Company takes no responsibility for Passengers denied embarkation and/ or disembarkation on medical grounds. Cancellation of any part of the holiday that arises due to health requirements will be subject to cancellation charges as set out in section 8. 10.13 Any cost or expense reasonably incurred by the Company for or on behalf of the Passenger in respect of any form of medical, dental or similar treatment, hotel, transportation, repatriation or any other expense shall be repayable by the Passenger to the Company irrespective of whether the sum is covered by the Passenger’s travel insurance arrangements. 10.14 Unless approved by the Company in writing prior to departure, Passengers may not bring on board any controlled substances. 10.15 Passengers may not bring on board any prohibited substances, any animals (other than previously arranged assistance dogs) or any goods of a flammable or dangerous nature. Doing so will render the passenger strictly liable to the Company for any injury, loss, damage or expense suffered by the Company as a result. The Passenger will also be personally liable for any statutory penalties. 10.16 Passengers are required at all times to follow the instructions of employees and crew regarding the use of ship’s equipment (including hand sanitisers) and general behaviour whilst on board and the Company will not be responsible for any consequential injury, illness, financial or other loss incurred by Passengers if they fail to comply with the instructions they are given. 10.17 The Master (or any employee or member of the crew authorised by the Master) will be entitled to search the cabin and/or personal luggage of any Passenger suspected of being in breach of these clauses.
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In addition, any employee or crew member will be entitled to enter a Passenger’s cabin in order to carry out an inspection, or to undertake cleaning, maintenance or repair work.
not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation.
10.18 The Company has the right to refuse or revoke passage to anyone who, in its judgment, is in a physical or mental condition unfit for travel, or who may require care beyond that which the vessel can provide and under such circumstances the Company will offer the Passenger no refund of any part of the cost of their unused cruise package.
11.3 Passengers are required to make any complaints relating to EU 1177/2010 whilst on board the ship. If the complaint is not resolved on the ship then any formal complaint must be made to the Company within 2 months from the date of the circumstances giving rise to the complaint. Within 1 month of receipt of the complaint the Company will respond informing the Passenger whether the complaint has been substantiated, rejected or is still being considered. The Company will provide a final response to the Passenger no later than 2 months after receipt of the complaint. If not satisfied with the Company’s response the Passenger may lodge a complaint with CLIA UK and Ireland by sending the complaint to email: passengerrights@cruising.org / passenger.rights@psa-ace.org. Web site: www.cruiseexperts.org / clia www.the-psa.org
10.19 If it appears that a Passenger’s conduct, behaviour or health has or is likely to endanger the Passenger’s own health or the health, safety or enjoyment of any other Passenger or crew or employee, or makes the Company liable for any significant unforeseen costs including medical treatment or repatriation, the Company and/or the Master reserve the right to take appropriate action and make appropriate charges. Actions may include disembarkation, confinement to a particular cabin or confinement to a hospital or similar institution at any port. If, under the terms of this clause, the Passenger’s cruise is terminated the Company will offer the Passenger no refund for any unused part of their cruise package nor will the Company be liable for the cost of repatriating the Passenger. 10.20 The Company may invite various affinity groups of people with shared interests who choose to travel together onto a cruise. The Company does not envisage that this will materially affect the normal day to day operation of the ship but Passengers must accept that there may be occasions when certain facilities are unavailable whilst these groups are on board. 10.21 Should any Passenger have the misfortune to suffer illness, injury or death during the period of the cruise arising out of an activity that does not form part of the arrangement made by the Company, the Company will, where appropriate, provide any assistance it can to the affected Passenger, such assistance being limited to a maximum cost incurred by the Company of £5,000 per cabin. 11 COMPLAINTS 11.1 Any Passenger who encounters a problem during a cruise must immediately report it to the Chief Purser or a senior member of the crew on the ship and ensure that the issue is recorded in the ship’s log together with any action taken to resolve it. If the matter cannot be resolved during the cruise, and the Passenger wishes to pursue a complaint, the Passenger must write to the Company within 28 days of final disembarkation. 11.2 As a Member of ABTA, membership number W0302, the Company maintains a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if we agree, but the ABTA Code does
Address CLIA UK & Ireland, First Floor, 41/42 Eastcastle Street, London W1W 8DU Tel: 0207 323 7466 12 CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE BY SEA OR INLAND WATERWAYS AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY 12.1 Travel on board the ship is subject to the shipping company’s Conditions of Carriage some of which limit or exclude liability in accordance with international laws and conventions. Copies of these conditions will be sent to Passengers with their travel documentation but they can be provided in advance upon request. They are also available on board the ship. It is important that you read these documents as the set out your rights and obligations. They also contain limitations of liability. 12.2 The liability of the Company and all carriers is as follows: •In respect of river cruises where carriage is on inland water ways, the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1996 (LLMC 96) as amended by SI 1998/1258 applies. The Strasbourg Convention on the Limitation of Liability of Owners of Inland Navigation Vessels referred to as the ‘Strasbourg Convention’ with protocols and amendments may apply to vessels sailing on waterways located in the territory of a state party subject to (i) the ‘Revised Convention relating to the Navigation of the Rhine of 17 October 1868’ and (ii) the ‘Convention of 27 October 1956 concerning the canalization of the Moselle’ (Article 15(1) of the Strasbourg Convention: http://www.ivr.nl/downloads/forms/B2.pdf). •International carriage by sea is governed by EU Regulation 392/2009 relating to the Liability of carriers of passengers by sea in the event of accidents (EU 392/2009) and the Athens Convention 2002 which may be viewed at http://www.admiraltylaw guide.com/ conven/passengers1974.html •Non international carriage by sea/domestic carriage and or where the vessel is being used as a floating hotel The Merchant Shipping (Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea) Order 2014 (2014 Order) which may be viewed at http://www.legislation.gov.uk /ukdsi/2014/9780111112502 applies. 12.3 In so far as a cruise may be performed on a ship not owned by the Company, Passengers agree that the Company shall at all times nevertheless be deemed a ship owner for the purposes of any relevant laws in force in any relevant jurisdiction and therefore be entitled to any limit to its liability.
12.4 A Special Drawing Right (SDR) is an international monetary unit. The exact value of an SDR fluctuates with the daily exchange rate, The daily exchange rate can be viewed at the International Monetary Fund website http://www.imf.org/external/np/fin/data/ rms_sdrv.aspx and an SDR converter is available at http://coinmill.com/GBP_SDR.html#SDR=46 666, The values in the booking conditions are those of 8 May 2014 and may fluctuate upwards or downwards Liability for river cruises 12.5 The Company’s liability for death and or personal injury for river cruises pursuant to SI 1998/1258, a copy of which will be provided by on request or can be found at: (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ uksi/1998/1258/article/4/made), is SDR 175,000 per passenger limit (approx. $272,437.15 or £160,570.99). If the Strasbourg Convention applies the limits for passenger claims are SDR 60,000 (approx. £55,065.01) per passenger subject to a minimum of SDR 6,000,000 (approx. £5,506,500.72)(see Article 7). A copy of the Strasbourg Convention can be found at. http://www.ccrzkr.org/files/conventions/clni_2012_en.pdf. Liability for carriage by sea 12.6 EU Regulation 392/2009, The Athens Convention 2002 and the 2014 Order limit the Company’s and the Carriers’ liability for loss or damage to luggage and make special provision for valuables. It is presumed that luggage has been delivered undamaged unless written notice is given to the Company and/or the performing Carrier a) in the case of apparent damage, before or at the time of disembarkation or redelivery; or b) in the case of damage which is not apparent or of loss, within 15 days from the date of disembarkation or redelivery or from the time when such redelivery should have taken place. Damages for cabin luggage payable by the Carrier are limited up to SDR 2,250 (approx. £2,064.51) or where the 2014 Order applies SDR 833 (approx. £764.32). 12.7 Limits shall be reduced in proportion to any contributory negligence by the Passenger and by the maximum deductible specified in Article 8 by the passenger in accordance with Article 8 (4) of the Athens Convention 2002 and EU Regulation 392/2009. All Claims must be brought in accordance with EU Regulation 392/2009, the Athens Convention 2002 or the 2014 Order within 2 years of the date of disembarkation from the ship. 12.8 In respect of domestic carriage in the UK, the 2014 Order will apply and the limits for death/personal injury are SDR 46,666 (approx. £42,818.53). These limits may also apply to domestic cruises in the EU. Where the carrier has a principal place of business in the UK the limits of liability per passenger may be SDR 300,000 (approx. £275,265.91) per carriage. 12.9 In respect of international carriage EU Regulation 392/2009 and the Athens Convention 2002 apply the following limits for death/personal injury caused by a shipping incident, with the exception of circumstances beyond the Carrier’s control (ie act of war, natural disaster, act of a third party) to no more than 250,000 SDRs (approx. £229,421.59) per passenger per carriage. Shipping incidents are defined as a shipwreck, capsizing, collision or stranding of the ship, explosion or fire in the ship, or defect in the ship. Except for cases involving war and terrorism damages up to a further 150,000 SDRs (approx. £137,656.76) may be payable in respect of a shipping incident unless the Company or the Carrier proves that the death or personal injury occurred without the Carrier’s fault or neglect.
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All Leisure Holidays ltd Conditions of Business – continued Where death/ personal injury is caused by a non-shipping incident it is for the passenger to prove that the death or personal injury was caused by the fault or neglect of the carrier. The maximum sum payable to any passenger under EU Regulation 392/2009 is limited to SDR 400,000 per passenger per carriage which is approx. £367,084.70. The maximum sum payable in cases involving war and terrorism where the carrier is liable is SDR 250,000 (approx. £229,421.59) per passenger per carriage or 340,000,000 SDRs per ship per carriage. 12.10 The Company and the Carrier are not liable for valuables, monies or other securities including jewellery and watches. If they have been deposited with the reception desk on the ship for safe keeping and a receipt issued then in those limited circumstances the Company’s and the Carriers liability will be as set out in EU Regulation 392/2009, the Athens Convention 2002 and where applicable the 2014 Order. The use of safes on board a Vessel is not a deposit with the ship or with the Company. The limits are SDR 3,375 (approx. £3,097.36) pursuant to EU Regulation 392/2009 and the Athens Convention 2002 or SDR 1,200 (approx. £1,101.28) pursuant to the 2014 Order. 13 CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE BY AIR AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY Travel on board aircraft used in travelling to and from the ship is subject to the airline’s standard ticket conditions, some of which limit or exclude liability in accordance with international conventions. These conditions can be found on the airline’s website or can be provided by the Company upon request. 13.1 If your air journey involves a destination or stop in a country other than the one from which you depart, the Montreal Convention may govern the liability of all airlines involved in your journey, including any portion thereof in a single country. This Convention limits the liability of airlines involved in your journey, including any portion thereof in a single country. This Convention limits the liability of airlines for death or bodily injury and for baggage loss, delay or damage. For many air carriers, the Montreal Convention limits for bodily injury or death and the defence that they have taken all necessary measures to avoid the damage for the first SDR 113,100 (approx. £103,748.85) of any such claim do not apply. In addition, in cases of death or bodily injury, many air carriers will make advance payments to the person entitled to compensation, if required to meet immediate economic needs, in proportion to the hardship suffered. European Community legislation requires carriers to provide a minimum advance equal to not less than SDR 16,000 approx. £14,672.76 in the event of death. Other air carriers may apply alternate provisions. Denied Boarding, Cancellation and Delay 13.2 Under EU law (EC Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to a refund and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However, reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in Clause 7. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. Airline Carrier Identity 13.3 In accordance with EU Regulation 2111/2005 we are required to advise you of the actual carrier operating your flight/connecting flight/transfer. We do this by advising you of the carriers to be used or likely to be used at the time of booking. Any changes to the actual
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airline after you have received your tickets will be notified to you as soon as possible and in all cases at check-in or at the boarding gate. Such a change is deemed to be a minor change. 14 GUIDES AND GUEST SPEAKERS 14.1 Independent contractors retained by the Company, including but not limited to lecturers, guides, guest personalities, cruise hosts and entertainers are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. The Company also retains the right to change any member of ship’s crew previously advertised or disclosed (e.g. the ship’s Master) without notice. 15 FINANCIAL PROTECTION 15.1 The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 require the Company to provide security for the monies that each Passenger pays for the package holidays booked with the Company and for your repatriation in the event of the Company’s insolvency. 15.2 For flight-based holidays this is through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 3897. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we aren’t able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). 15.3 If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative), through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. 15.4 When you buy a cruise/ package holiday that doesn’t include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA. 16 TRAVEL INSURANCE* 16.1 Passengers should have insurance cover from the moment you book as cancellation charges apply from the time deposits are received (see Booking Conditions). 16.2 We are able to offer travel insurance cover tailor made for our cruise holidays, details of which are given below. Cover is arranged with Holiday Extras and is underwritten by Allianz Global Assistance both of whom are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Hebridean Island Cruises is a trading name of All Leisure Holidays Ltd which is an Appointed Representative of Holiday Extras, enabling Hebridean Island Cruises to arrange insurance for their clients.
16.3 Full copies of the Key Facts and Policy Documents are available upon request prior to purchase to ensure the cover meets passenger’s individual needs. As with all travel insurance policies you are only insured for an event which occurs after you have purchased the policy. Please carefully read the following section headed Health. The policy details apply to departures up to and including 12th November 2016. 16.4 Please note that cover is only available to residents of the UK. 16.5 If you, any person travelling with you or any person on whom your travel plans depend (a close relative for example), have ever had treatment for any cancer, respiratory, cardiovascular or circulatory condition (e.g. heart condition, hypertension, blood clots, raised cholesterol, stroke, aneurysm) or any medical condition you have, or have had, that has given rise to symptoms or required any form of treatment, been prescribed medication, received medical consultation, investigations or followup/check-up during the two years prior to the commencement of this policy then you must advise Holiday Extras on 0845 345 8106 as per the policy terms to ascertain whether cover is available. Please refer to the policy wording list of Automatically Accepted Minor Conditions to check whether the condition(s) are covered without the need to notify Holiday Extras. Insurers reserve the right to impose additional terms and premiums. You will receive confirmation in writing of their decision. 16.6 If your health or medication changes between purchasing the travel insurance and date of travel you are also required to call Holiday Extras. 16.7 We will send you full copies of the Key Facts and Policy Documents with your confirmation of booking and these should be taken on your cruise. Please read these carefully. Failure to disclose any material facts may mean that your policy will not cover you and may invalidate the policy altogether. If the travel insurance does not meet your requirements you may cancel the policy within 14 days of receipt, provided travel has not started and no claim has been made. After the 14 day period all premiums, including any additional premiums charged for pre-existing medical conditions, are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Insurance cover is generally available up to 85 years of age, subject to, but not limited to, those conditions listed in ‘Health’ above. All cases, regardless of age, will be subject to individual assessment and may incur a supplementary premium. 17 DATA CAPTURE 17.1 Hebridean Island Cruises is part of All Leisure Holidays Ltd. The information we hold about you will be used to deal with your enquiry or booking, provide you with our latest news and offers or invite you to take part in research. We may also share your information with other All Leisure Holidays companies who may occasionally contact you about products and services we feel may be of interest to you. For further information, please see the Hebridean Island Cruises Privacy Policy at www.hebridean.co.uk. 18 NOTICES 18.1 All Notices to the Company should be sent in writing or e mail to Hebridean Island Cruises: Kintail House, Carleton New Road, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 2DE Tel: 01756 704704 www.hebridean.co.uk reservations@hebridean.co.uk
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Travel Our experienced reservations staff can assist with most travel arrangements to make your journey to join Hebridean Princess as relaxed and stress-free as possible.
Embarkation in Oban Flights* Flights to and from Glasgow International Airport are currently available from the following UK Airports: Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Isle of Man, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Luton, Stansted and Southampton.
Rail* There are excellent rail links to Glasgow Central Railway Station, including a direct high speed link from London Euston via the west coast main line. Our reservations staff can arrange return standard or first class rail travel from your local UK railway station, together with seat reservations where available. Assistance with luggage at main line railway stations can also be arranged on request. If you prefer to travel to Oban by rail, there is a rail service from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban Station via a single track but very scenic line. However this is a limited service.
Booking travel arrangements through Hebridean Island Cruises Further information regarding travel arrangements for your chosen cruise will be supplied with your Pre-Cruise Questionnaire approximately 20 weeks prior to departure. Any arrangements you would like us to make on your behalf should be indicated on the questionnaire. * When flight and rail tickets booked by Hebridean Island Cruises are not included as part of the cruise fare, a small booking fee will be applied.
Private coach transfers Our guide will meet you at Glasgow Central Railway Station or Glasgow International Airport to assist with your luggage from the meeting point to our private coach for the onward journey to Hebridean Princess in Oban. This is a two and a half to three hour journey with one short comfort stop en route.
The coach will depart from Glasgow Central Railway Station at 2.30pm and from Glasgow International Airport at 3.15pm for the onward journey to Oban.
Road Oban is located 95 miles north-west of Glasgow off the A85 and the journey via the A82 at Loch Lomond is very scenic.
Secure car parking in Oban If you choose to travel to Oban by car we provide a secure, valet car parking facility at no additional cost. Please note that parking is at your own risk. If you intend to use the parking facility, you are asked to arrive at the ship between 3.30pm and 4.30pm. Your vehicle will be returned to the quayside for disembarkation.
Making your own travel arrangements If you prefer to make independent arrangements please note that, while we will give all the assistance we can, we are less likely to be able to deal with any problems that may occur and we cannot accept any financial liability should they affect the time of your arrival. We always recommend you consult our reservations staff prior to making any independent travel plans. Our staff can assist with suggested timings for onward or connecting flights, etc.
Disembarkation in Oban Disembarkation will normally take place after breakfast. Our private coach will be on the quayside for the transfer to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station, normally reaching Glasgow in the early afternoon. A member of the crew will accompany the coach to assist with the unloading of luggage.
Embarkation in other ports Our reservations staff will be pleased to assist in making arrangements for your travel to/from Greenock and Invergordon. In the majority of cases Hebridean Island Cruises will provide private coach transfers from the nearest mainline railway station and airport to the port of embarkation.
Tailor-made travel packages and other services We can tailor travel packages to suit your individual requirements and offer additional services including:
Chauffeur transfers/taxis For your convenience, as an alternative to our private coach, we can arrange for your train or flight to be met by a chauffeur car or taxi for your onward transfer to the port of embarkation. In addition, if you wish to extend your stay in Scotland, we can arrange a tailored personalised tour of Argyll and the West Highlands.
Door-to-door transfers As an added touch of luxury, our door-to-door service makes it possible to travel in chauffeurdriven comfort from your home in most places of the UK to the port of embarkation, or any UK railway station or airport, on request and at an extra charge.
Hotels You may wish to extend your cruise with a pre- or post-cruise hotel stopover. We have negotiated favourable rates with a number of hotels, some of which are part of Connoisseurs Scotland or Pride of Britain. Our reservations staff can also recommend hotels in other parts of the UK.
Luggage transfers The Baggageman provides a luggage collection and delivery service from your home to Hebridean Princess and return. Please contact The Baggageman directly on 01844 264890 or visit www.thebaggageman.com. Valid in UK only. 9
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Cruises that start and finish in different ports For cruises that embark and disembark in different ports, trouble-free arrangements have been made by our reservations staff. Please refer to page 105 of the 2016 Cruise Directory brochure for details. 15th March 2016
12th July 2016
8th August 2016
25th October 2016
Greenock to Oban
Oban to Invergordon
Invergordon to Oban
Oban to Greenock
Spirit of Scotland
Following the Grand Fleet
Stone Age Scotland
Call of the Clyde
Private charter
Iconic and the epitome of understated elegance, Hebridean Princess is the ultimate vessel for a private charter for up to 50 guests or delegates.
Whether a conference with a difference, a celebration or wedding, Hebridean Princess delivers a style of service from a bygone age. More akin to a private yacht than a conventional cruise ship, the 30 cabins are each uniquely and elegantly furnished. Public rooms are reminiscent of a country house with service from British Officers and English speaking crew to match. Audio-visual equipment is available in the beautiful Tiree Lounge and break out rooms are available in the tastefully furnished Conservatory, Look-Out Lounge and Library. The Columba Restaurant is the setting for magnificent dining created by our talented brigade of chefs. For something more informal, barbecues can be arranged on the Skye Deck or buffet lunches in the Lounges.
Remain in touch with business back home via telephone and Wi-Fi internet facilities. Unforgettable entertainment can be organised in the form of ceilidh bands, accordionists for Scottish Country Dancing or pipers. As a venue for your conference, convention, private cruise or other event, chartering Hebridean Princess is equivalent to hiring your own luxurious private yacht.
Customer financial protection – summary
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The cruises to be undertaken fall within the scope of The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 and the Amendment of Regulation 7, dated February 1998. One of the key provisions of those Regulations is that arrangements must be made to secure monies paid in advance by a passenger, and for repatriation of a passenger in the event of the
insolvency of the party to whom the monies have been paid before the package is completed. Where there is an international flight included in your cruise fare, you will be covered under CAA ATOL 3897 All Leisure Holidays Limited. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid
to us for advance booking. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk For all cruises in the Hebridean Princess 2016 Preview Collection, a bond is held by All Leisure Holidays Limited with The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) whose ABTA number is W0302.
Cruise Calendar 2016 Spring
page
March
1st 7th 11th 15th 22nd 29th
Doon The Watter Islands of the Clyde Lochs of Argyll Spirit of Scotland Easter in the Hebrides Escape to the Highlands and Islands
6 nights 4 nights 4 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
20 22 24 26 28 30
April
5th 12th 19th 26th
Flavours of Scotland Castles and Gardens of the North Springtime Surprise Footloose through the Inner Isles
7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
32 34 36 38
May
3rd 10th 17th 24th 31st
Westward to Harris and Lewis Voyage to the Outer Isles Northern Ireland Explorer Call of the Wild St Kilda, Islands on the Edge
7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
40 42 44 46 48
Summer
page
June
7th 14th 21st 28th
Scotland in Colour Footloose in the Outer Isles Manx Heritage The Hebridean Outposts of St Kilda
7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
50 52 54 56
July
5th 12th 21st 30th
Hebridean Symphony Following the Grand Fleet Nordic Outposts Footloose in the Far North
7 nights 9 nights 9 nights 9 nights
58 60 62 64
August
8th 16th 23rd 30th
Stone Age Scotland Hidden Isles of the Hebrides Wonders of the Western Isles Scenic Sutherland
8 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights
66 68 70 72
Autumn
page
September
6th 10th 15th 20th 27th
Argyll’s Atlantic Islands Highlights of the Inner Hebrides Taste of the Outer Isles Westward to Harris and Lewis Voyage to the Outer Isles
4 nights 5 nights 5 nights 7 nights 7 nights
74 76 78 80 82
October
4th 11th 18th 25th
Flavours of Scotland Highland Heritage Autumn Surprise Call of the Clyde
7 7 7 7
nights nights nights nights
84 86 88 90
November
1st
Grand Houses and Castles of the Clyde Islands of the Clyde Lochs of Argyll
7 nights 4 nights 4 nights
92 94 96
8th 12th
Answering your queries and making your reservation Our reservations staff are available to help you from Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5:00pm. They can give detailed information on all aspects, including the various itineraries, cabins, food and travel arrangements to the ship. Represented in Australia by Discover the World:
Represented in New Zealand by Discover the World:
PO Box Q125, Queen Victoria Building Sydney NSW 1230 Tel: 1800 OCEANS (1800 623 267) Fax: (02) 9299 5357 Email: hebrideancruises@discovertheworld.com.au
PO Box 39-366 Howick Auckland 2145 Tel: 0800 623 4293 Email: hebrideancruises@discovertheworld.com.au