Love of Country
A Journey around the Northern & Western Isles aboard the MS Serenissima with Guest Speaker John Love
- 12 August 2020
- 24 July 2021
A specially arranged voyage in support of the National Trust for Scotland
We are delighted to have the opportunity to offer this unique cruise which has been exclusively designed for the National Trust for Scotland. Noble Caledonia introduced small ship cruising, often referred to as expedition cruising, to Scotland almost 30 years ago. Scotland soon became one of the most important areas for our fleet of small ships which operate in every continent of the world.
The geography of Scotland lends itself well to exploration by sea, perfect for our small ships that carry up to 100 passengers. The very essence of our journeys is to take small numbers of travellers to fascinating places and enhance the experience with our onboard teams of experts. This is not a ‘traditional’ cruise but a thought provoking voyage of discovery for those who wish to see and learn more about the natural world and the culture of remote communities. The Trust has a long history of running cruises for members and we are delighted to be involved with their plans for 2020.
A well-tuned itinerary is like a good book, each day being a new chapter offering insight, wonder and reflection. Join us as we explore Shetland, Fair Isle and St Kilda and cruise to the Hebridean islands of Canna, Skye, Staffa, Iona and Colonsay. For the gardeners we have included the magical gardens of Inverewe and the Castle of Mey.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Embark the MS Serenissima in the afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen airport and railway station at a fixed time.
Day 2 Fair Isle & Lerwick, Shetland.
This morning we anchor off the island of Fair Isle, the most remote inhabited island in the UK, owned and cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Located midway between Shetland and Orkney, the tiny population of 60 or so islanders always extend us a warm welcome. Enjoy a three mile walk across the island, enjoying a Stevenson lighthouse at each end, visit the community hall for a cup of tea or maybe purchase some of the famous knitwear. Return to the ship for lunch before we sail the short distance to Lerwick, where the afternoon is free to explore this historic port at your own pace.
Day 3 Unst & Yell, Shetland.
Continue our exploration of Shetland with a visit to the islands of Unst and Yell. Unst is Britain’s most northerly inhabited island. The Trust owns seven parcels of land on Unst, the nearby small uninhabited island of Daaey and some croft land on Yell. The islands are of special interest to geologists, botanists and birdwatchers. We will visit the Heritage Centre to learn about the islanders’ struggles over the centuries as well as the industries that have prospered. The Unst Boat Haven is dedicated to the history of the islands’ distinctive wooden boats, based on Viking design. We also visit Saxa Vord to enjoy with views over Hermaness National Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga. Arriving at Yell in the afternoon, we will have free time to explore the pretty village of Burravoe.
Day 4 Inverewe.
We will spend the morning at sea as we sail towards Inverewe for our visit to the impressive garden, surely one of the finest sited gardens in all Scotland, cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. First designed by Osgood Mackenzie in the late 19th century it is home to exotic and tender plants that thrive in this northerly location warmed by the effects of the Gulf Stream and protected by over 40 hectares of woodland shelter. Lose yourself in the lush setting and enjoy a riot of colours and scents. As well as the garden, you can explore Inverewe House, an interactive museum and explore the estate which has many designations recognising its importance as a species-rich habitat. The wildlife hide provides the perfect vantage point over Loch Ewe, where coastal birds, seals and otters can be seen.
Day 5 Canna & Loch Scavaig.
Strategically placed between the mountains of Rum and the Outer Hebrides, the island of Canna and its adjoining neighbour Sanday have an amazingly rich archaeological landscape, with remains dating from all periods of settled occupation in Scotland. Canna is run as a single farm and bird sanctuary by the National Trust for Scotland and enjoys the best harbour in the Small Isles, a horn-shaped haven. The fertile soil and diversity of habitats mean that the island has an incredibly rich plant life, with 248 native flowering plants recorded. We see Canna House, and wander across grassy plateaus to the 600 feet cliffs in the north. Sail during lunch to lovely Loch Scavaig on the island of Skye. Just beyond is the freshwater Loch Coruisk with breathtakingly beautiful views over the Cuillins. This is great walking country, but for those who prefer a less energetic afternoon our Zodiacs will explore the coastline looking out for seals.
Day 6 Staffa & Iona.
Today we explore two magical places in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. Awake this morning at our anchorage off the south side of Staffa. The perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of basalt columns, known as the colonnade, which have been shaped by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer before sailing to Iona. This flat Hebridean island has been occupied for thousands of years and has been a place of pilgrimage and Christian worship for several centuries. St Columba fled from Ireland in 563 and established a monastery here; his followers were responsible for the conversion of much of pagan Scotland and northern England. Many early Scottish kings are buried in the abbey. Visit the abbey or enjoy a walk along the white sandy beaches.
Day 7 Colonsay & Islay.
Lying between Mull and Islay, we will spend the morning exploring the island of Colonsay, with her craggy, heather-clad hills and sparse woodland yet impressive array of plants and birdlife. Near Colonsay House, built in 1722 by Malcolm MacNeil and bought by Lord Strathcona in 1904, we will visit the attractively dilapidated woodland gardens which protect the tiny, enigmatic 8th century St Oran’s Cross. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Islay where we anchor at Bunnahabhain with its beautiful views of the Sound of Islay. Here we will learn the steps involved in creating the whisky at the local distillery, and afterwards will savour the experience with a dram of Bunnahabhain in the tasting room.
Day 8 St Kilda, Outer Hebrides.
We arrive this morning at St Kilda, a remarkable archipelago some 40 miles west of North Uist. Dominated by the highest sea cliffs and sea stacs in Britain, Hirta, (St Kilda’s main island) was occupied on and off for at least 2000 years, with the last 36 islanders evacuated at their own request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds including puffins and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to the National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites with dual status, reflecting both its natural and cultural significance. The National Trust for Scotland Ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead a number of guided walks on the island,
Day 9 Scrabster.
Our final day sees us in Scrabster, the most northerly port on the Scottish mainland. In the morning visit the Castle & Gardens of Mey, built between 1566 and 1572 by George Sinclair, 4th Earl of Caithness. The castle was purchased by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother in 1952 who restored the castle for use as a holiday home and created the beautiful gardens we will see today. After lunch on board we will drive along the coast to Dunnet Bay, a glorious crescent of sand dunes and Dunnet Head. Here we will see the lighthouse built in 1831 by Robert Stevenson and enjoy the views over to Orkney. We continue to John O’Groats, the most northerly town on mainland Britain.
Day 10 Aberdeen.
Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Aberdeen airport and railway station at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 12 to 21 August 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | Fully Booked | |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | Fully Booked | |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | Fully Booked | |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | Fully Booked | |
| 6 Junior Suite | Fully Booked | |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | Fully Booked | |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | Fully Booked | |
| 10 Standard Single | Fully Booked | |
| 24 July to 2 August 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £3995 | |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £4195 | |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £4695 | |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £4995 | |
| 6 Junior Suite | £5395 | |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £5795 | |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £5795 | |
| 10 Standard Single | £5495 | |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE120820
PRICE INCLUDES: Nine nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Noble Caledonia will be making a contribution to support the vital work of the National Trust for Scotland, much of which will be enjoyed during this voyage.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Extensively renovated in 2003 she was rechristened MS Andrea and began her life as a classic cruise ship, and was chartered by Noble Caledonia for a number of years. In spring 2012 MS Andrea was purchased by our longstanding associates Volga Dream and renamed the MS Serenissima. After a thorough renovation and upgrading, the charming MS Serenissima commenced cruise operations in April 2013 and we have chartered her for the majority of each year since knowing her to be perfect for small ship cruising. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted to have had the MS Serenissima on long term charter since 2013. There are so few ships of her generation still cruising and she is a great testament to her owners who invest considerable sums to keep her on top form. At the end of 2018 she underwent a refurbishment which included both of the lounges and in November 2019 further refurbishments were completed including the cabins on Decks 3 & 4, the reception area and the Venice Restaurant. MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features is her unique style.
The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018 & 2019
Registered: St Vincent & GrenadinesAIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
ALTERATIONS TO THE SCHEDULE
Our planned schedule may be changed at short notice due to weather conditions or technical reasons. Should there be any alterations the Captain or Cruise Director will inform you of any changes.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all cabins.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all cabins feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins/suites, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701 – 704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony.
Facilities include: • Air-conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning) • Dressing table with chair or stool • En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment) • Hairdryer • Minibar (Serenissima Suites only) • Balcony (Serenissima Suites only) • Dressing gown and slippers • Safe • Flat screen television • Telephone (charges apply) • Wardrobe • Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by email at cruise@msserenissima.com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject).
The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication:
Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea Lounge.
Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events. For example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin/suite and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
FIELD STAFF
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia Cruise Director/Expedition Leader and an experienced team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board.
When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
INTERNET
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
LANGUAGE
All members of the crew speak English.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 0900. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service onboard.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that serves decks 3 to 6. Please note that, due to the layout of the ship, the following cabins are accessible by at least one flight of stairs: 417 – 421, 424 & 701 – 704.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros,British Pounds or US Dollars) • Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) • Debit Card (MasterCard & Visa) Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
As a result of Russian ownership, please note that credit/debit card payments will be charged in Russian Rubles. The debited amount shown on your bank/building society statement in British Pounds will be based on the relevant exchange rates on the day of the transaction. You may need to make your bank/building society aware that your card payment will be authorised ‘in Russia’ so that payment is not declined, and also to ascertain if any additional charges will be applied. Unfortunately, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service onboard, as this would be contravening official regulations.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route.
PUBLIC AREAS
• Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 09.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX AUDIO SYSTEM
During our excursions, we use an audio headset system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Beware of petty crime and pickpockets whilst ashore. A money belt worn underneath clothing is useful. Do not take all your money with you when out sightseeing. We advise utmost caution at popular tourist spots. Please do not leave any luggage unattended at any time.
SAFETY & LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SEA SICKNESS
As on any seagoing vessel, some marked motion may be anticipated in certain areas, dependent upon weather, season, etc. It is recommended that you bring anti-motion sickness medication just in case, even if you have never experienced motion sickness in the past. Please consult your Doctor/General Practitioner (GP) or local pharmacist regarding which medication is appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or lying down with their eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help. SHOP The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SHOP
The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOILETS
The ship is fitted with a sensitive vacuum system. Please do not put anything into the toilet except toilet paper.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
Previously the MS Serenissima used 200 plastic bottles of water every day. In order to help reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we are replacing plastic water bottles where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. We have chosen stainless steel bottles, made of durable, high quality stainless steel. It will keep your drink fresh and cool for longer and fit neatly into your bag or backpack. You can fill it up from the water station on board, located in Reception area, deck 5. We recommend that you do not drink nor refill your bottles from the tap in your cabin. The tap water is not potable. The bottle in your cabin is for your personal use during the cruise to take on excursions. Please leave the bottle/s in your cabin at the end of the cruise.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 December 2019
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Videos
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Travelling with You
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Dr Chris Edwards
A native of Scotland, after graduating from the University of Glasgow Chris was employed by the British Antarctic Survey and spent two and a half years in Antarctica as a field geologist. On return to the UK via a tour of South America he obtained a Ph.D. and published scientific papers based on his Antarctic work. Twelve years in the oil exploration industry saw Chris initially based in Aberdeen working both offshore and onshore before postings to South America and the Far East. On return to the UK he was based in London, Aberdeen and Glasgow. . Since 1989 he has been the horologist in his own antique clock restoration business.
This has allowed him the flexibility to leave the workshop for several months a year to work on expedition ships as an expedition leader and lecturer in the Antarctic, the Arctic and North-West Europe. Apart from his broad geological knowledge he is passionate about environmental and natural history matters, is a lichenologist, a bookbinder and keen photographer. Chris lives with his family in Aberdeenshire, Scotland where he grows trees, sails on ocean-going yachts for a charity, and bakes real bread.
Dr Chris Edwards will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020 -
Colin Baird
Colin grew up on the west coast of Canada and developed a love for the sea at an early age, sailing and scuba diving the local waters off Vancouver Island. He spent 10 years as a marine mammal trainer working with seals, sea lions and orca (perhaps better known as Killer Whales). In 2002 he was hired by Jean Michel Cousteau as the director of field operations for the Free Willy/ Keiko Project in Iceland and Norway. This was and remains today the only attempt to release a previously captive orca back into the wild.
Since then, Colin has been expedition cruising to many out of the way places; including Iceland, Norway, Svalbard, the high arctic and Antarctic. When at home in Canada leads whale watching tours from Victoria, B.C. during the northern summer to see his favourite of all the cetaceans….the orca.
Colin Baird will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020 -
John Love
Born in Inverness, John Love graduated in zoology at Aberdeen University. In 1975 he went to live on the Isle of Rum where he managed a highly successful project to reintroduce the white-tailed sea eagle. While he remains involved with birds of prey, seabirds are another passion. In the 1990s John acted as guide and lecturer on several small charter vessels round the Hebrides and has lectured on cruises, round Scotland and to Norway, for the National Trust for Scotland.
He first worked for Noble Caledonia in 2009 and now participates in various expedition cruises for three to five months each year. This is mainly around the UK - and the Hebrides in particular - but he has also voyaged round Ireland, northern France, Iceland and the Faroes, Norway, the White Sea, the Seychelles, the Maldives, the Tanzanian/Mozambique coast, northern Madagascar and, most recently, New Zealand and Lesser Antilles.
John has written and illustrated books on eagles and penguins, on the human history of the Isle of Rum, and natural histories of lighthouses and of St Kilda. His interests are wide, and include drawing, photography and playing the fiddle.
John Love will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020 -
Wendy Malan
Wendy trained as a classical ballet dancer and teacher at the University of Cape Town. After dancing professionally for ten years, she taught at the same university before setting out on her own. She has run her own successful exercise studio and produced several ballets for the Cape Youth Ballet. Together with her oceanographer husband she has taken part in research cruises off the West Coast of Southern Africa and travelled to some of the Earth’s more interesting places, including the Namibian Skeleton Coast, Mozambique and the Antarctic.
Her first visit to the Antarctic was in 2003, aboard the SA Agulhas, supervising a group of scholars who accompanied the vessel on a relief cruise to Queen Maud Land. She has worked on small expedition cruise ships in many places in the world for the past eight years.
Wendy Malan will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020 -
Michael Brown
An all round naturalist and a photographer since his teens, Mick’s particular passion is for sea birds and marine mammals. Originally from Dublin, he has lived in Pembrokeshire, West Wales for forty years. For the past twelve years he has worked on expedition cruise ships, concentrating on the Arctic, Antarctica and UK offshore islands. When at home he works as an outdoor school instructor and has a National Parks Guide. Offshore islands with real seal and seabird colonies are his natural habitat.
Michael Brown will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020 -
Kevin Treacher
Kevin served in the Royal Marines for 12 years which took him all over the world working in some of the most arduous environments on earth from Arctic training in Norway to desert training in Death Valley, Mountain training up in the Rockies’ and jungle training in Belize.
After a couple of tours of the Middle East as a regular soldier Kevin went on to specialize as a boat Coxswain which saw him posted to ‘Diego Garcia’ - a tropical island in the Indian Ocean where some of his duties included fishery and wildlife conservation.
Upon returning to the UK he completed an advanced boat operator course enabling him to work with the Special Boat Service (SBS) as a highly skilled coxswain in a role designated to counter terrorism for the United Kingdom.
After leaving the Marines in 2012 Kevin went on to work as a private security contractor providing armed protection for vessels sailing though the high risk pirate areas of the Indian Ocean before finally joining the Noble team little over a year ago as a Zodiac Driver.
Originally from Chichester in West Sussex but now resides just outside of London.
Kevin Treacher will be on the following tour dates: 12 to 21 August 2020
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Discover the Channel Islands & Isles of Scilly aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Guernsey / Alderney / Sark /Jersey /Tresco / Bryher / St Agnes / St Martin's / Lundy / Dartmouth / Plymouth
8 nights
from
£3995
Next Departure
31 August 2020
Sailing from the Baltic to Britain
A voyage from Stockholm to the UK aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Helsinki, Finland
- St Petersburg
- Tallinn
- Saaremaa
- Riga
- Klaipeda, Lithuania
- Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland
- Christianso & Bornholm Island, Denmark
- Wismar, Germany
- Kiel Canal Transit
- The Hague, Netherlands
- Dover, UK
16 nights
from
£7595
Next Departure
15 August 2020
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000