Footloose through the Western Seaboard

Tuesday 23rd to Tuesday 30th April 2024

Our first ‘Footloose’ adventure of the year takes us through the spectacular scenery of the Inner Hebrides and the heart of the Highlands, where the evocative beauty of Glen Coe exudes an air of mystery and poignancy in its historical context. As a walker or a stroller, why not escape with us and discover these mesmeric landscapes.

Tuesday 23rd April

An extremely scenic journey for coach passengers from Glasgow station and airport, an unscheduled stop en route allowing us to get to know fellow guests along the way. A warm welcome after a long day greeted us on arrival onboard, with safety briefing in the evening sunshine before our welcome dinner and a sunset sail to our overnight anchorage in Charlotte Bay off Kerrera.

Wednesday 24th April

Wall to wall sunshine … from the moment we sat down to the ‘special’ at breakfast to indulging in the superb menu on offer at our Captain’s Welcome Gala Dinner! A short morning sail gave lovely views of Duart Castle on Mull, which was followed by a tour of the castle of strollers, while walkers set off for spectacular views down over the castle and out into the Sound of Mull.

A further sail gave us the chance for Pimms on deck as we made our way up Loch Linnhe and into Loch a’ Choire for walks around the estate and walled gardens at Kingairloch Head. And the clear moonlight evening sky promised us more sunshine to come….

We anchored overnight tonight in Loch a’Choire.

Thursday 25th April

Hebridean Princess anchored off Ballachulish in the morning, with tenders and coaches waiting to take walkers on a full day’s walk up the Devil’s Staircase and along part of the West Highland Way.

Other guests chose to visit the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct in the morning, with an afternoon trip to the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn more about the area, including the history of the Glencoe massacre in 1692 and the more recent real life stories of pioneers in the area who played such a big part in mountaineering and mountain rescue. Some stunning views from the high points along the road through the glen rounded off our afternoon, and an equally stunning sunset finished the day off.

And to finish the day, a special Hebridean touch after dinner for a guest on board celebrating her birthday – her smile says it all!

We anchored off the Isle of Kerrera overnight.

Friday 26th April

And still the sun shone! Walkers and strollers alike were tendered ashore at Crinan, the strollers enjoying local walks while the walkers headed out for another full day outing, this time walking through Knapdale Forest and across to Tayvallich for refreshments before rejoining the Ship for evening drinks on deck. Spring flowers and smiles everywhere!

We remained at anchor overnight off Tayvallich.

Saturday 27th April

A glorious morning sail took us past the Paps of Jura to our morning anchorage at Craighouse on Jura, where guests enjoyed walks, strolls and local refreshments in the village.

Relocating during lunch, Princess then took us to the Isle of Gigha for a choice of walks, strolls, a visit to the beautiful Achamore Gardens… or even cycling for the more adventurous!

The day finished with some music and dancing in the Tiree Lounge courtesy of Guides John (accordion) and Andrew (vocals)… and of course the obligatory sunset!

We remained at anchor overnight off the Isle of Gigha.

Sunday 28th April

Just to remind us that the Hebrides are still beautiful in ALL weathers, waterproofs were called for by the walkers on our visit to Islay. While Strollers toured Finlaggan, enjoyed lunch at the Port Charlotte Hotel and visited Kilchoman Distillery in the afternoon. walkers were taken by coach to Ardnave Point for farmland and coastal walks through the dunes and the machair. Never was hot soup from the team in the Galley to go with our sandwiches so welcome!!! A visit to the hides at the RSPB centre concluded our day out – lapwings, herons, various ducks, and even a close up Snipe rewarded our silent watching before our coach back…. And as the rain cleared we set sail with drinks on deck once more in stunning sunshine, followed by possibly the best sunset yet!

We anchored overnight in West Loch Tarbert off the Isle of Jura.

Monday 29th April

The spell of fine weather had finally run its course, but that didn’t spoil a visit to beautiful Colonsay. Guests had the choice of walks, or a minibus shuttle to Colonsay House Gardens – before returning to hot welcome toddies and a wonderful ham buffet lunch.

A gentle afternoon was spent at sea before our final farewell gala dinner – absolutely delicious – and a chance to thank our chefs in person for our expanding waistlines! Dancing and music rounded off a wonderful cruise!!!