Explore Scotland’s wild side with Hebridean Island Cruises. Hop on the Hebridean Princess or Lord of the Highlands, and visit those tucked-away spots that bigger ships can’t get to. With just 48 or 36 guests on board, you’ll feel like part of a small, friendly group.
These cruises are all about great service and comfort, bringing you closer to the beauty of the Scottish Isles. Everything’s covered in the fare—excursions, meals, and drinks—so you can just relax. Plus, with trips starting from Oban, there’s no need to worry about flights to see Scotland’s Western Isles.
These cruises are perfect for solo travellers, couples, or groups. You’ll sail through the Caledonian Canal, the Orkney Isles, and parts of Northern Europe.
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What Makes this cruise line so unique?
Hebridean Island Cruises stands out in luxury travel with their unique cruises. They use small luxury cruise ships, the Hebridean Princess and Lord of the Highlands. For over 30 years, they’ve mastered the art of personalised service.
These small groups mean you get an unmatched level of attention. It feels like you’re on a private yacht, with breathtaking Scottish views all around.
The all-inclusive voyages cover everything you might need:
- Gourmet meals and snacks
- Premium drinks
- Shore excursions
- Use of bicycles and fishing tackle
- Taxes and gratuities
Hebridean is special because they reach secluded ports that big ships can’t. You’ll see hidden spots in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Experts guide you, making each place come alive.
| Feature | Hebridean Princess | Lord of the Highlands |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Capacity | 48 | 38 |
| Crew Members | 38 | Personalised crew |
| Cabins | 28 spacious cabins | Elegant accommodations |
| Unique Offerings | Expert guest speakers | Off-the-beaten-path itineraries |
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Footloose Walks
I’m a fan of staying active, so I jumped at the chance to join the “Footloose” walking adventures. These guided walks took me through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. If you like exploring on foot, this is an awesome way to see the sights while getting in some fresh air.
What's included in the fare?
Hebridean cruise inclusions offer an unmatched all-inclusive experience.
Dining and restaurants
Your fare covers all meals in the ship’s elegant restaurants. Enjoy fine dining experiences crafted by skilled chefs using fresh, local ingredients. From breakfast to dinner, every meal is amazing.
Drinks
Your fare includes a wide range of beverages, from morning coffee to evening spirits. Wines, beers, soft drinks, and more are all included too.
Entertainment
Onboard entertainment is part of your package. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, and engaging talks about the destinations you’ll visit.
Activities
Use the ship’s bicycles to explore port towns or try your hand at fishing with the provided tackle. Shore excursions are also part of your fare which is unusual for a cruise line.
Other Inclusions
Hebridean’s all-inclusive cruises go the extra mile. Port and passenger taxes? Covered. Gratuities? No need to worry. With a crew-to-guest ratio of nearly one-to-one, you’ll enjoy luxury without reaching for your wallet all the time. There are no hidden costs.
What's NOT included in the fare
Hebridean Island Cruises offers great packages, but some additional costs might apply. Knowing about these extras can help you plan your budget better for your trip.
Some excursions might have extra fees. While many activities are included, some special tours or experiences need extra payment. It’s a good idea to look at the excursion list early to plan your budget.
Travel insurance is not part of your fare. It’s important to get the right coverage for your trip.
There are no water slides or big pool decks. Even without big cruise ship pools, these small ships offer a unique and fabulous holiday.
Pros and Cons
When thinking about the pros and cons of Hebridean cruises, it’s important to take a closer look at what makes this cruise line unique. We’ll compare it to other options to help you decide if Hebridean Island Cruises is the right choice for your next holiday.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Intimate experience (48 passengers max) | Higher price point |
| Access to remote locations | Limited onboard facilities |
| Exceptional dining with local produce | Not suitable for mobility-impaired guests |
| Unique cabin options, including singles | No elevator onboard |
| Royal seal of approval (chartered by Queen Elizabeth II) | Less entertainment variety than on larger ships |
The Hebridean Princess offers a special experience with only 28 cabins and five decks. The top deck is great for seeing the views and wildlife, like whales and dolphins. It may not have modern comforts like elevators, but it has excellent service and food that people love.
This luxury comes at a cost. A seven-night trip in September 2024 starts at £5,390 per person for a basic cabin. Prices go up for rooms with balconies. Yet, many think the personal service and chance to visit hidden spots are worth it.
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Onboard Bikes
One of the best things I found was the bikes on the Hebridean Princess. Whenever we docked, I grabbed a bike and went exploring on my own. It’s a fun and relaxed way to check out the local area and get a bit of exercise.
All Ships in Their Fleet
The line has two amazing ships, here are some quick facts about them:
| Ship Name | Capacity | Length (m) | Year Built | Highlights | Internet Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hebridean Princess | 48 | 72 | 1989 | Scottish Highlands and Islands cruises, Elegant lounges, Library | Available at extra cost |
| Lord of the Highlands | 38 | 45 | 2000 | Caledonian Canal and Western Seaboard cruises, Observation deck | Available at extra cost |
History of the line
Hebridean Cruises started in 1964 with the MV Columba. This ship could carry 600 passengers and 50 cars. It was a big start for Scottish cruise lines.
In 1989, a big change happened. The MV Columba was refitted and became the luxury cruise ship MV Hebridean Princess. It could now carry 49 passengers, offering a more exclusive experience.
Since then, Hebridean Island Cruises has been known for luxury small-ship cruising. They focus on the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Their unique itineraries show off the area’s beauty.
In 2006, a big event happened. Queen Elizabeth II chose the Hebridean Princess for her 80th birthday. This showed the line’s high standards.
The company grew with the addition of Lord of the Highlands to their fleet. This ship added canal and loch cruises to their options. Today, Hebridean Island Cruises mixes luxury with Scotland’s coastal beauty.
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Cruise Types
Let’s look at the different Hebridean cruise types available.
Adults Only
Hebridean doesn’t have adult-only cruises, but their small ships are great for mature guests. You’ll enjoy a sophisticated setting ideal for a quiet break without kids.
Family Cruise
Hebridean Island Cruises doesn’t focus on family cruises. They aim to offer a close-up cruise experience for adult travellers.
Singles and Solo
Solo cruises are big for Hebridean. They welcome solo travellers warmly and have single cabins on their ships.
Medical Facilities
Hebridean Island Cruises offers a special way to handle cruise ship healthcare.
The ships are always near the coast, just a few hours from a port. This means you can get quick medical help on land if you need it.
Before the cruise starts, the ship’s Master gives a detailed safety briefing. You’ll learn about what to do in emergencies and what medical facilities are available.
The crew has trained First Aid Officers ready to help with minor health issues. They have a fully stocked first aid kit for common illnesses. Seasickness tablets are also available, but you won’t likely need them in the calm coastal waters.
Even though there are limited medical services onboard, you’re close to full care on land.
Dress Code
During the day, guests can wear casual clothes. For dinner, the dress code becomes more formal. Gentlemen should wear jackets and ties, and ladies should choose formal outfits.
Special events make the dress code even more elegant. On a seven-night cruise, there might be two formal Gala Dinners. For these, gentlemen should wear black tie, and ladies should wear cocktail dresses. The cruise line encourages guests to wear Scottish national dress for these events.
Remember, jeans and joggers are not suitable for dinner unless for shore activities. When packing for your cruise, don’t forget non-slip shoes for the deck and sturdy boots for walking on land.
| Occasion | Gentlemen | Ladies |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | Casual wear | Casual wear |
| Dinner | Jacket and tie | Formal equivalent |
| Gala Dinner | Black tie | Cocktail dress |
| Special events | Scottish national dress (optional) | Scottish national dress (optional) |
What to Pack
Let’s look at some key packing tips. The Scottish weather changes often, so layers are a must. Choose lightweight, breathable clothes that you can easily add or remove.
For your Hebridean Island Cruise, comfy walking shoes are essential. You’ll need strong shoes for shore excursions. Also, bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella as Scottish showers can surprise you!
Space on board is limited, so pick soft-sided luggage over hard cases. This choice helps you use your cabin space better. Make sure to pack any personal items not given by the cruise, like special toiletries or medicines.
| Scottish Cruise Essentials | Additional Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Layered clothing | Binoculars for wildlife viewing |
| Comfortable walking shoes | Seasickness remedies (e.g., Stugeron, ginger) |
| Waterproof jacket | Insect repellent (e.g., Smidge) |
| Umbrella | Camera or smartphone for photos |
| Soft-sided luggage | Adapters for electronic devices |
Gratuities and Tipping
The cruise includes gratuities in the fare, so you won’t need to tip extra. This is in line with British culture, where tipping isn’t as common as in some places.
This approach to tipping is refreshing. It means fair treatment for all crew members. It also simplifies your budgeting for the trip.
While tipping isn’t expected, you can give extra tips for outstanding service.
🛳️ Cruise Tip: Guest Speakers
I made sure to sit in on the guest speaker sessions, and they were really interesting. These experts shared cool stories and facts about the places we visited, from history to wildlife. I learnt so much!
Things to do & Sea Activities & Entertainment
Educational and Enrichment Programs
The Tiree Lounge has daily lectures and the Guide gives talks after dinner. Topics include wildlife, history, and heritage. These sessions give you deep insights into the Scottish Isles.
Outdoor Activities
Hebridean Princess has five small boats for island trips. You can go on twice-daily excursions, enjoy guided walks, or cycle. The ship also has outdoor areas like the Skye Bar and sunbathing on the Boat Deck for wildlife watching.
Relaxation and Socialising
Lounges like the Conservatory and Lookout Lounge are great for chilling out. The Library is a quiet spot for reading or playing games. Even without a spa, there is plenty to do.
Fitness and Connectivity
There’s a small gym with a treadmill, cycle, and Stairmaster. Wi-Fi is available, but speeds can change. Don’t forget, there’s no laundry on board, so pack smart for your cruise.
Adventure Activities
- Visit St Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Explore the Viking history of the islands
- Witness the creation of Harris Tweed, a fabric protected by its own Act of Parliament
- Enjoy guided croft tours to learn about traditional Scottish agriculture
Nature lovers will be excited by the wildlife reserves and eagle observatories. Summer cruises are great for seeing otters and other shy animals. Hebridean’s expert crew, including naturalist guides, make each shore trip educational and fun. They share their knowledge about the local culture, wildlife, and landscapes.
🛳️ Review:
I really enjoyed my Hebridean Princess cruise. It’s a small ship so it was easy to get to know people. The crew was great, and having everything included sure make it easy. The best part was the walking tours in remote Scottish islands. The weather was a bit unpredictable, with some misty days that limited what we could do outside, but that didn’t stop us!
Restaurants & Dining
You’ll enjoy meals made from local ingredients, giving you a true taste of the area.
Main Dining Venues
Hebridean Sky has two main places to eat: the elegant Restaurant and the casual Lido. The Restaurant offers buffet meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at set times. You can choose from eggs Benedict to fresh pastries for breakfast.
Lunch and dinner menus are posted daily at reception. They feature starters, soups, mains, and desserts. The Lido is great for eating outside and serves hot meals for breakfast and dinner. There’s also a lunch buffet.
Additional Dining Options
The Lounge serves canapes before the daily briefing. The Club has teas, cookies, fruit, and a coffee machine all day. Afternoon tea is also available here.
For a special treat, there are Gala Dinners with a cocktail reception and a gourmet dinner in the Columba Restaurant.
Dining Packages and Inclusions
All meals, snacks, and picnics are included in your cruise fare. Complimentary wine is given with lunch and dinner, with 10 wines to choose from. If you have special dietary needs, let them know in advance.
While there’s no room service, there are many dining options.
Drink Packages
The Hebridean all-inclusive drinks package offers a great selection. You can enjoy:
- Champagne
- Fine wines
- Beers
- Spirits
- Soft drinks
- Tea and coffee
These drinks are available all day. You can have them while dining, relaxing in the lounge, or taking in the views on deck.
While most drinks are included, there’s a premium list of wines and spirits for an extra cost. But, most guests find the free options more than enough.
Cabin Choices
The Hebridean Princess with just 28 cabins, feels like a personal Scottish adventure. Each cabin is named after Scottish places, adding to the charm.
The Isle of Arran suite is the largest, at 196 square feet, with a separate living area and bedroom. It doesn’t have a balcony but has plenty of space and stylish furniture. 18 cabins have outside views, and four have private balconies for those who love the outdoors.
There are eight cabins for single travellers, two with bathtubs. Half the cabins have full-size baths, and the rest have showers. Bathrooms range from classic marble to modern slate-grey, with chrome fittings.
| Cabin Type | Features | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Isle of Arran Suite | Separate living area, spacious bathroom | Splurge pick |
| Balcony Cabins | Private outdoor space, excellent views | Popular choice |
| Single Cabins | Dedicated spaces for solo travellers | Great for singles |
| Inside Cabins | Budget-friendly option | Budget pick |
The Lord of the Highlands has 19 staterooms, offering a similar quality experience. These cabins are on three decks, with the same elegant decor and service as the Hebridean Princess.
All cabins have essentials like wardrobe space, safe, dressing table, and tea/coffee-making facilities. You’ll also find luxury items like Molton Brown toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers for a comfortable stay on your Scottish cruise.
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No-Fly UK Ports
Hebridean Island Cruises offers no-fly options from UK ports for a hassle-free Scottish cruise. The Hebridean Princess, sets sail from Oban. This town on Scotland’s west coast is the perfect start to your cruise.
The Lord of the Highlands takes you through the Caledonian Canal. You’ll see Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes from a unique view. Other ports include Inverness, known as the Highlands’ capital, and Scrabster, the UK’s northernmost mainland port.
Getting to these ports is easy with coach transfers from major transport hubs. For example, there are transfers from Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Central Station to Oban. If you’re heading to Inverness or Scrabster, there are transfers from Inverness Airport and the city centre. Edinburgh is also an option for some sailings.
Hebridean Island Cruises makes travel easier with free car parking at ports and airports.
Where does it go?
Hebridean Island Cruises takes you on relaxed trips around Scotland’s west coast, focusing on the beautiful Inner and Outer Hebrides. You’ll get to visit popular spots like Skye, Mull, and Iona, as well as hidden gems like St. Kilda and the Small Isles.
Their cruises also stop at charming coastal towns like Oban and Fort William, and sometimes even head up to the Orkney and Shetland Islands. It’s all about enjoying Scotland’s amazing scenery, history, and culture, without the usual crowds or hassle.
The islands are perfect for those who love wildlife. You’ll see eagles, seals, otters, and puffins. There’s also a chance to spot whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the rich waters.
You’ll also see parts of England, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Wales, and the Isle of Man. For those who love inland waterways, there are special trips along the Caledonian Canal and Great Glen.
Hebridean Island Cruises has some cruises to European destinations beyond Scotland. In 2025, the Hebridean Princess will sail to various locations including Northern France, the Channel Islands, and the Isles of Scilly. Some of the specific itineraries include:
- Channel Island Explorer: This cruise takes you to the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, Sark, Herm, Jersey, and Alderney.
- Secrets of the Solent and the Seine: This itinerary includes a journey along the Solent and the Seine, providing a unique experience in European waters.
- Treasures of the Channel Isles: Another Channel Islands cruise, focusing on the diverse beauty of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, and Alderney.
Environmental programs
Hebridean Island Cruises is leading the way in sustainable cruising with its eco-friendly efforts. The company is committed to taking care of the environment and has set up several programs to reduce its impact.
Improving fuel efficiency is a big part of their green efforts. Skippers are told to use engines at 65% power to aim for 150 litres of fuel per person per cruise. New, ultra-efficient generators have cut fuel use by 25%. Also, tenders are lifted out of the water when not in use to save more fuel.
Water conservation is also a major focus. Showers are limited to 6 litres per minute, and linen is only changed when asked. To reduce plastic waste, guests get refillable water bottles.
- Achieved Green Tourism Gold Award
- Participates in cetacean sighting reports
- Uses solar panels and LED lighting
- Plants a tree for every guest through ‘Trees for Life’
Hebridean’s commitment to sustainable cruising goes beyond the ship. The company encourages guests to use public transport and shares info on electric car charging spots.
By supporting local businesses and using seasonal produce, Hebridean Island Cruises helps local economies grow. This also cuts down on transport miles.
| Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency Measures | 25% reduction in generator fuel use |
| Water Conservation | Showers limited to 6L/min |
| Plastic Reduction | Refillable water bottles provided |
| Local Economy Support | Sourcing local, seasonal produce |
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
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