Enrichment & Special Interest Cruises
Among Hebridean International’s roll call of distinguished speakers you’ll find explorers and scientists, historians and academics, diplomats and ambassadors, broadcasters and writers, award winning chefs and Masters of Wine, each a perfect compliment to your cruise.
The emphasis is very much on informality, and whilst they do not lecture guests they do add an interesting dimension to your time aboard, providing insight into their chosen field and often that day’s tour.
Here is just an example of their guest speakers:
Michael Buerk – Award winning BBC television journalist
Nicholas Kenyon – Controller of Radio3
Lady Sophie Laws – Historian & classics scholar
The Rt Hon Baroness Boothroyd – Former speaker of The House of Commons
Sir Roy Strong – Former Director of the National Portrait Gallery
Sir John Ure – Travel Writer and former Ambassador
Murray Walker – The voice of British motorsport
Privately Escorted Tours with Hebridean Spirit
All of Hebridean Spirits's tours are private and organised exclusively. Each is led by the on-board Tour Manager and accompanied by highly knowledgeable local guides who are able to bring the history and culture of each region to life.
Hebridean Spirit's tenders, Talisker and Ardberg, provide a regular shuttle service throughout the time ashore when Hebridean Spirit is not berthed alongside, allowing passengers the maximum freedom and flexibility to spend as long or as short a time on shore as they wish. Those who prefer more independence can simply soak up the local atmosphere or can arrange for a taxi if they have specific sights in mind which are within easy reach of the moorings and are not covered by the organised tours. Bicycles are available for the more energetic, as is snorkelling equipment in certain regions.
Between the action and stimulation of trips ashore, relax in the Skye Lounge browsing a wide range of magazines or visit the Panorama Deck, where you can enjoy the views in comfort and immerse yourself in the contents of the Travel Library. Here you will also find a variety of board games, or perhaps you have met the perfect Bridge partner amongst your fellow passengers. Alternatively, you might prefer just to sip a glass of your favourite drink on the Mizzen Deck or take one of the many relaxing treatments available in the Spa. A visit to the well-equipped gym is another option, with a stunning outlook over sea and land.
In the evenings the ship's musicians provide musical interludes around the grand piano in the Skye Lounge before and after dinner, with occasional concerts and sometimes classical recitals.
Illuminating talks by a broad range of excellent guest speakers contribute greatly to the experience, presenting formal talks and also mingling with guests at table and in the public lounges and, of course, participating in the privately organised tours ashore.
