Bonnie Scotland: Uncover the charms of cruising the Scottish Hebrides

There’s a classic inglenook fireplace in the Tiree Lounge, oil paintings hanging from the walls, and tartan everywhere, from the armchairs in each of the 28 cabins to the drapes in the Columba Restaurant. The eatery, which is where all meals are taken, is also traditional in its format – guests are assigned a table for the duration of their sailing, with couples typically dining together, and solo travellers and groups of friends seated at larger tables hosted by one of the ship’s officers. Meal times are often followed by a nightcap in the quaint Tiree Lounge, where there’s a cosy set-up of sofas and armchairs positioned around the fireplace, as well as an intimate bar. This is the ship’s social hub and where guests gather for afternoon tea, port talks and pre-dinner cocktails, as well as simply to while away time as we sail, socialising and sharing stories from the day’s events.

Signature service

Thanks to its timeless design and traditional features, Hebridean Princess attracts a rather niche market, who are often regular passengers returning with friends they’ve previously made on board, or solo travellers who relish the social and welcoming atmosphere. This select clientele tends to be retired professionals and much of the sailing is designed with this market in mind. Though I don’t exactly fit the blueprint of a typical Hebridean Princess customer, this doesn’t mean I’m unable to enjoy the aspects that make this ship such a firm favourite with those who sail on it. The onboard service is faultless, with the crew knowing each passenger by name and, in the case of the bar staff, their favourite drink.

The ship’s captain, Richard Heaton, pops down to the Tiree Lounge in the evenings to catch up with each guest and help arrange anything that might make the sailing that little bit more special, from visits to the bridge to private speedboat excursions. As well as the personalised service, one of Hebridean Princess’s biggest draws is its culinary offering. We enjoy lavish spreads at every meal, but the cherry on the cake comes on the final evening, when we’re treated to a gala dinner that showcases Scottish cuisine in all its glory, as well as a traditional recital of Robert Burns’ Address to a Haggis by the captain. But what I enjoy most about the sailing isn’t the food, the service or the bar staff’s diligent refilling of my champagne glass – it’s the unique peace that comes with visiting some of the UK’s most distant corners.

Agent insight

Andara Travel director Dave Allen shares his insight into selling Hebridean Island Cruises

“Hebridean Princess is a unique product that attracts mainly a British clientele aged over 50. Customers who frequently sail on the ship value the better things in life and want to be utterly spoilt on board. Hebridean Princess has a delightful atmosphere reminiscent of an upmarket country-house hotel at sea, and the caring and professional staff create a relaxed ambience on board.

Nothing is too much trouble for them, including the professional guide who organises the excursions – all of which are included in the fare. The ship is all-inclusive and the cuisine is wonderful, including fresh lobster, langoustines and as much champagne as you can drink. Nature lovers will enjoy the shore excursions – on our visit to the Shiant Islands, we saw thousands of puffins – and the ship’s small tenders and speedboat offer great ways to get ashore and into quiet coves.”