In spite of all its regional difficulties, Africa still captures the imagination like no other continent. Its varied cultures and peoples, its extraordinary wildlife and the majesty of its landscapes cast a lifelong spell on all who visit and exploring the region from the comfort of a small ship is by far the best way to experience its many wonders. Join us for this remarkable voyage as we sail along the coast of West Africa from Morocco to Ghana visiting countries that may well sound like an itinerary from the pages of an intrepid 18th century explorer’s diary but are some of the most fascinating and captivating places on earth.
Much has changed since the Portuguese sailed along the West African coast in the 15th century. These regions of Africa, rarely visited for more than a half-century, have opened up in recent years and offer the intrepid traveller a range of cultural and natural world experiences. During this unique voyage spanning over 3,000 nautical miles, we will visit nine countries and enjoy an intimate exploration of the extraordinary diversity of animals, plant life, and human cultures spanning the coast of Western Africa as we travel between Casablanca and Accra.
Sailing south from Morocco, the contrast of scenery and landscapes will be mesmerising from bustling cities including Casablanca, Dakar and Freetown to the volcanic landscape of Lanzarote, the sand dunes of the Western Sahara and the extensive waterways of The Gambia. We will visit the remarkable Bandia Reserve in Senegal which is home to a diverse range of African mammals and, a highlight for many will be our two days in the Bijagos Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve off the coast of Guinea-Bissau with a unique and rich cultural life. Whilst in Sierra Leone there will also be the opportunity to visit the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a conservation programme established to protect wild chimpanzees and their habitat.
Aside from the marvellous natural world wonders we will encounter, there is of course a fascinating cultural heritage and human history to be discovered as we delve into the history and legacy of West Africa’s transatlantic slave trade with visits to forts, castles, monuments and museums commemorating that period in history which we will learn about from local guides.
The roads may be poor and the tourist infrastructure very much in its infancy in some of the countries we will be visiting, but that is precisely why we believe West Africa presents such an array of exciting experiences for the adventurous traveller who wishes to witness this extraordinary area, its diverse cultures and marvellous wildlife but who are weary of the more well-trodden paths around the world. After a day’s exploration, we will be returning each evening to the comfort of the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky with the added benefit of some days at sea interspersed throughout the itinerary when you can relax on board and attend the informative lectures by our Guest Speaker and members of our onboard team.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Casablanca, Morocco.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight to Casablanca. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky and enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Casablanca.
During our guided morning tour we will visit the city’s most important sights including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the market. The highlight of our tour is a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, the largest religious monument in the world after Mecca. It took 3,300 traditional Moroccan artisans to create the beautiful mosaics, marble floors and splendid wood ceilings. The mosque also features the world’s tallest minaret, soaring 200 metres above the city. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board as we sail to Agadir.
Day 3 Agadir.
Spend the morning at sea before arriving this afternoon in the vast Bay of Agadir for our exploration of the city. Almost completely destroyed in the 1960 earthquake, some of the city’s heritage did survive including the hilltop Kasbah. We will take a scenic cable car ride to the Kasbah Oufella, offering panoramic views of the bay. After viewing this historic fortress continue to Souk El Had, the city’s vibrant central market and the Talborjt Mosque, before we end at the charming artisan village of the Coco Polizzi Medina with its unique architecture and local art.
Day 4 Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands.
The easternmost corner of the Canary Islands, the island of Lanzarote features a bizarre landscape, born of volcanic activity over many millennia, having a rare beauty that is not unlike the surface of the moon. Few places on earth can offer such diverse natural phenomena in such a small area, from eerie formations of petrified lava to beaches of black volcanic sand and fertile fields to vineyards growing in the depths of volcanic craters. It was this landscape that inspired artist Cesar Manrique, a multifaceted artist who knew how to combine art and nature like nobody else. He left part of his artistic legacy in Lanzarote and perhaps the greatest exponent is Los Jameos del Agua. This volcanic tunnel, with its famous, spectacular natural auditorium, is home to a highly singular geological formation. The Mirador del Rio is another creation of his, a natural vantage point offering spectacular views of the Chinijo Archipelago.
Day 5 El Marsa for Laayoune, Western Sahara.
From the port of El Marsa drive across the sand dunes to the city of Laayoune. There are not many travellers who can boast of a visit to the territory of Western Sahara. Mostly consisting of flat desert, it is one of the least populated regions in the world. Surprisingly, it makes for a really interesting visit as we take in the unique Spanish-Saharan architecture in the old town including the Catholic cathedral, the camel market and the craft workshops. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at sea.
Day 6 Dakhla.
After a relaxing morning at sea, we will arrive into Dakhla. The town occupies a long peninsula which juts out into the Atlantic. During our afternoon ashore we drive past stunning sand dunes before arriving at this friendly town with its white-washed houses and learn about some of the traditions of this remote region.
Days 7 & 8 At Sea.
We will spend the next two days at sea as we sail along the coast of Africa. Enjoy lectures in the lounge and find a spot on deck to relax.
Days 9 & 10 Dakar & Ile de Goree, Senegal.
This morning, we arrive into the capital of Senegal, Dakar. Our city tour includes Independence Square, the Presidential Palace and a local market before we take a ferry across to the Ile de Goree. With its colonial style houses and wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, it is difficult to believe that this island was one of the busiest slave centres in West Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries. We will see the Slave House, now a museum and the Historical Museum in the Fort d’Estrees. From the fort there are marvellous views of the island and over Dakar. We will also visit Bandia Reserve, a 3,500-hectare nature reserve which is home to a wide range of African mammals including white rhino, zebra, giraffes, green vervet monkeys, and jackals, along with over 120 bird species. Boarding safari jeeps, we will spend time in the nature reserve before driving to Lake Retba, or ‘Pink Lake’ as it is known for its vivid pink colour. The lake is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of sand dunes. Being this close to the ocean, the lake has a high salt content which the locals collect for preserving fish.
Day 11 Banjul, The Gambia.
Spend the day in The Gambia, the 31 mile wide country that is surrounded on three sides by Senegal. It makes up for its size with its personality, being known as the Smiling Coast of Africa. The country has a long history, with stone circles having been excavated and dating back over 1,200 years, to Arab traders setting up trade routes in the region for slaves, gold and ivory. The Portuguese took over the routes in the 15th century, and the area now known as The Gambia was colonised and recolonised by the British from the 16th century onwards, in various forms, until its independence in 1965. A half day city tour will include the city mosque, market and museum with exhibits showcasing the culture and history. Alternatively, visit the south of The Gambia which is rich in natural beauty with extensive waterways and tributaries home to a range of bird and wildlife living in the lush green wilderness. Here villages and life continue to embrace traditions and offer insights into the culture of different tribes, through their art and food. Maybe join a small boat for a leisurely cruise amongst the mangroves or alternatively board 4x4 vehicles to visit some of the villages, the local school and markets before enjoying lunch at a beach restaurant.
Days 12 & 13 Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea Bissau.
We have two days in the Bijagos Archipelago which comprises a group of 88 small islands, spread over 5,000 square miles, many of which are uninhabited and rarely visited by foreigners. These islands offer a unique blend of culture, history, wildlife and natural beauty and were declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996. Our programme will be determined by tidal and weather conditions but we hope to use our Zodiacs to land on Carache Island, which boasts tropical rainforests and a stunning coastline. Visiting the local village we will learn about their rituals and subsistence farming projects and will have the opportunity to buy some handicrafts or relax on the golden beaches. Meanwhile on Caravela Island we will join the local women as they harvest oysters and shellfish before a performance of traditional Bijagos dancing. We may also visit Bolama Island which was the capital during Portuguese rule and retains colonial era architecture.
Day 14 At Sea.
Spend a day at sea as we continue our journey around the West African coast.
Days 15 & 16 Freetown, Sierra Leone.
We will arrive in Freetown this morning and will spend a day and a half exploring the city, the history of Sierra Leone and the natural beauty of the area. The colourful city was founded in 1792 by British abolitionists as a settlement for freed slaves. Its history before that was as a slaving port, as seen by the remains on Bunce Island, the largest British slave fort on the West African coast, where tens of thousands of slaves were shipped to the Americas until its closure in 1808. In more recent years, Freetown has grown into a lively and diverse city with a vibrant food scene, bustling markets and soft sand beaches. The city’s historic centre is a mix of colonial and more modern architecture, lush green trees, as well as its historical landmarks including the National Museum of Sierra Leone and the National Railway Museum which charts the history of Sierra Leone’s railway from 1898 to 1975. Not far outside the city, we hope to visit the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary which was established in 1995 when a husband and wife team set up the conservation programme to protect wild chimpanzees and their habitat. The project aims to build a relationship between apes and humans by collaborating with the local communities to protect the forests.
Days 17 & 18 At Sea.
Relax on board as we sail towards the Ivory Coast.
Day 19 Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Arriving in Abidjan today, we will travel along the coast to the old colonial capital Grand Bassam, which was the capital of the Ivory Coast from 1893 to 1896. The town became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 thanks to the splendid colonial style residences that overlook the Gulf of Guinea and shape the urban fabric of the city. The town today is a vibrant and popular destination on the Ivory Coast and has experienced a period of great splendour and was in fact the first French settlement in West Africa and the capital of its colony. Some of the colonial buildings have been restored while others were abandoned offering a unique charm to the city.
Day 20 Takoradi & Elmina Castle, Ghana.
The coastal city of Takoradi is known for its bustling fishing harbour, pristine white sand beaches and lively atmosphere. The area is also rich in history and the arrival of the Portuguese in the 15th century led to the introduction of the slave trade. After clearing immigration formalities we will drive to one of the biggest and earliest slaving forts, Elmina Castle, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Portuguese in 1482 and captured by the Dutch in 1637, it was expanded when slaves replaced gold as the major export, with storerooms converted into cells. A tour of the castle will take you through its history, from a Portuguese fort and slave trading post to, in more recent years, a Police Training Centre, secondary school, and now a historical museum. After our tour we return by Zodiac to the MS Hebridean Sky which will have sailed and anchored near the castle.
Day 21 Tema for Accra to London.
This morning, we will arrive into Tema and disembark the MS Hebridean Sky. We will spend the day exploring the sights of Accra including lunch before transferring to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 22 London.
Arrive this morning.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 1 to 22 December 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £13995 | £13495 |
| Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £14795 | £14295 |
| Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £15495 | £14995 |
| Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £15995 | £15495 |
| Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £17595 | £17095 |
| Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £17995 | £17495 |
| Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £18495 | £17995 |
| Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £16995 | £16495 |
| Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £17495 | £16995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS011227
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 20 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, visas for Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, the Ivory Coast and Ghana (Noble Caledonia will endeavour to arrange for passengers to obtain visas on arrival for these countries. Further and full details will be provided three months before departure).
Exploring Ashore: This voyage will appeal to those who enjoy exploring off the beaten track. The route we are taking will take us to destinations that are not possible to visit on larger cruise ships and our journey promises to be a true adventure. Tourist infrastructure throughout many of the African countries visited during this cruise is very much in its infancy and flexibility will be key. Our onboard team will endeavour to arrange a selection of walks to include longer and shorter options to cater for different abilities but it is recommended that you have a good level of fitness and mobility to partake in this voyage. The excursions will be a mix of half and full day tours which will include periods of walking over uneven ground and steps combined with periods of standing. It will be warm during the days with high humidity levels. The road conditions will be mixed meaning the roads can be bumpy which will elongate some journey times. We will source the best transport options available but these will not always be up to European standards. We plan to be alongside every day except for our calls at the Bijagos Archipelago and Elmina Castle where we will be at anchor and will use the ship’s Zodiacs to go ashore.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
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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 you have chosen the MS Hebridean Sky for your voyage. The 118-passenger, all-suite vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually spacious accommodation, public areas and outside decks. You will find the atmosphere on board akin to a private yacht or country hotel with a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from our onboard team and informative port briefings from your Cruise Director or Expedition Leader. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship. Along with the Captain and officers and the Noble Caledonia team, our crew of 75 are dedicated to offering you the best possible experience during your time on board. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 118
Length: 90.60 metres
Width: 15.30 metres
Registered: Bahamas
Crew/Staff: 75
Year built: 1992
Language: English
Gross Tonnage: 4200 tonnes
Net Tonnage: 1286 tonnesADAPTORS
Please bring a two flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug socket. If required there is a small supply of adaptors that can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise. There is also an adaptor extension box with USB ports in the suite.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All suites feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air-conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
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 suites.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
If you wish to contact the ship, please call +1 954 672 6930. This is a US number so calls will be charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your suite which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make suite to suite calls free of charge. The ship can be contacted by email at rec@hs.salenship.com. Please indicate the passenger name and suite number in the subject field.
Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi
Connectivity is now an important feature in our lives and we do our best to bring this service to you on board. Complimentary Wi-Fi provided by Starlink is available in the public areas and passenger suites. Wi-Fi details, including your unique log in, will be available in your suite. The service provided on board uses direct satellite technology and has a certain amount of bandwidth available. The same level of connectivity and speed that we enjoy at home through cable or fibre-optic based infrastructures cannot be expected on board. As you traverse the seas and ports, the ship’s antennae have to re-establish connection with the transmission satellites. Signal may also be blocked by mountains, buildings or even local radio frequency regulations. Remote locations out of satellite range, weather on earth or in space can also affect signal strength. Please also bear in mind that the network is shared by everyone on board so congestion can be anticipated which will slow down speeds especially at peak times. The bandwidth available to the ship means that connectivity is best served using text-based communications and simple social media. Some applications which involve downloading large files may not be available on board.
Here are some tips for using satellite Wi-Fi on board:
• Avoid peak times such as the return to the ship after an excursion.
• Always log off the system when not in use to free up bandwidth space for other passengers and to pause your usage allowance.
• Work offline.
• Download any apps you need before leaving home.
• Turn off or disable background app data services and updates – apps that sync in the background can quickly eat up data without your knowledge.
• Disable push notifications as these use a lot of data.
• Remember to bring any charging or data cables required.
• Your Network provider may offer a cruise package but be careful, once the land signal is lost, this will transfer to the satellite signal which will incur greater costs.
• Cruise Terminals ashore often have good land based internet to supplement your connectivity.
• Put your phone on Airplane Mode when not in use to avoid roaming charges from your Network Provider.
• Be careful not to access private accounts such as bank accounts on public Wi-Fi systems.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your suite daily.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. MS Hebridean Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Whether we have a morning at sea or you choose not to partake in an excursion, breakfast times have been extended, where possible, for your convenience. Times may vary and will be indicated on the Daily Programme. During good weather, early riser’s coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner may also be served on The Lido Deck. Afternoon tea is served in The Club or in The Lounge depending on activities. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Club. For those guests who may prefer more flexibility with regards to their meals we are delighted to offer an additional menu on board between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm. Details are available in The Club.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director / Expedition Leader will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director / Expedition Leader as soon as possible after embarkation.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is defined as casual. During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual. Jackets and ties are not required. However, we kindly ask you to refrain from wearing shorts during evening meals in the Restaurant. You may wish to wear something a little dressier for the Welcome and Farewell Dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and a dress for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary. It is recommended to wear footwear at all times whilst on board.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110v/60Hz (American standard) and a 220v razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. Please bring a two flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug socket. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the suites is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations Department as soon as possible.
GOING ASHORE
Please wait in the public areas or in your suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced over the PA System if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
MS Hebridean Sky has a beauty technician providing hairstyling, some beauty treatments and massages. Appointments can be made on board at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your onboard account. Each suite is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
We have comprehensive plans in place to protect the health and hygiene of our passengers and crew. These are kept up to date in line with new advice and guidance and are continually evaluated. The ventilation system provides all suites and communal areas with fresh non recycled air. There is no recirculation of air on board. UV technology has been installed to ensure no risk of transmission via ventilation units. Hand sanitisers are present throughout the vessel particularly at entrances to dining venues and at the gangway. We kindly ask that you ensure to use these regularly. When it is required to bring in enhanced procedures you will be advised in either your pre cruise documentation or on board.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
Laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your suite. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items to be laundered on your bed. Your laundered items will be returned within 24 hours. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board. In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
All passenger decks can be reached by lift. Please do not use the lift in the case of a fire or an emergency.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your suite to ensure you do not leave anything behind. On board the ship, any liquids, cosmetics, paper(s) and perishable items left behind will be disposed of immediately. Any books left on board the ship will be incorporated into the ship’s library or donated to charity. Other items left behind on the ship will be kept on board for 1 month or 2 cruises (whichever is the longer period), and after this time, any unclaimed items will be given to a local charity at the next main port the ship visits. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 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.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Medical services are available 24 hours a day. There is a Doctor on board, and crew members are trained in first aid. Suite visits by the ship’s Doctor are available. Please note that all consultations and services are charged for. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s Doctor please contact Reception. It takes some people longer to find their sea legs. Sea sickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR/FRIDGE
This is stocked with complimentary soft drinks and beer and will be replenished daily/on request.
NEWS
News channels are available on your suite TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at Reception and in The Library.
NOBLE CALEDONIA TEAM
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests you may have.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a receipt for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. You will need to register your card at Reception shortly after sailing. If you are sharing a suite with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown in British Pounds. All final accounts will be presented in British Pounds. Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard).
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
Debit and pre-paid credit cards may not automatically be accepted. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use one.
PASSPORTS
All Passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
The Club – Located on the Mawson Deck aft. The Club features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. A quiet place to meet friends or relax during the day.
The Library – Located on the Mawson Deck aft. In The Library you can find a well stocked selection of reference books pertaining to the destinations. Fiction books, games and playing cards are also available. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library.
The Lounge – Located on the Byrd Deck aft, The Lounge is a comfortable place to relax or read a book. Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here.
Observation Deck – Located on the Shackleton Deck. There is an area for sun loungers ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing viewing platform.
Promenade Deck – Located on the Mawson Deck. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose suites are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between the hours of 8.30 am and 9.00 pm only.
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 experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
There is a safe in every suite located in the drawer of the television cabinet. The safe can be programmed with your own code, instructions can be found inside the closet door and housekeeping staff will be available to assist upon embarkation. We recommend that you leave money and other valuables in the safe. Kindly remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the ship at the end of your cruise.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite’s door. Life jackets are located in your suite. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the life jacket. It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
• Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks.
• Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck.
• Footwear should be worn at all times.
• Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please remember to check in and out at the gangway with the crew member on duty in order for them to ensure that you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
The MS Hebridean Sky offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, including the balcony areas. Smoking is only permitted in the designated area outside. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard.
SUITES
On board there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting area, en suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower featuring rainfall and separate hand held shower heads, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Suites on the Shackleton & Scott Decks have private balconies.All suites have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet & USB ports
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar/fridge
• Safe
• Toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• TelephoneEach suite has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception Desk, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Suites are serviced each morning by housekeeping and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, all suites have a shower but none have baths.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a television. There is a selection of
channels available including news, films and documentaries.TOILETRIES
Shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, body lotion and shower gel are provided in your bathroom. If you have forgotten anything ie. toothpaste, please ask Reception, who have a selection of items available for purchase.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
At times Bridge visits may be possible. If visiting the Bridge, please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk before 11.00 pm.
WATER
In order to reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we have replaced plastic bottled water where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles and water carafes. These are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your suite at the end of the cruise. The bottles and carafes can be filled from the water station outside the Club. Alternatively your Steward/ess can refill your carafe daily. Should you prefer to use plastic bottled water then please just let your Steward/ess know.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO GO ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ship’s Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat for travel to and from the ship. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew on board the MS Hebridean Sky when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please Note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Cabin Plans
Cabin Plans
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Deck Plan
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Skys Video Tour
Also of Interest
North African Odyssey
A fascinating voyage from Malta to Morocco including Tunisia & Algeria aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Guest Speaker Chris Bradley
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Valletta / Gozo Island / Sousse / El Djem / Kairouan / Tunis / Constantine / Bejaia / Algiers / Oran / Ghazaouet / Melilla / Tangiers / Casablanca
14 nights
from
£8995
Next Departure:
17 November 2027
Passage along Africa's Atlantic Coast
An epic voyage from Morocco to Ghana aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Casablanca / Agadir / Arrecife / Dakhla / Dakar / Ile de Goree / Banjul / Freetown / Monrovia / Abidjan / Takoradi / Accra
19 nights
from
£13395
Next Departure:
14 November 2026
Coastal Cities & Cultures of West Africa
A voyage between Cape Town & Ghana aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Accra / Shai Hills Game Reserve / Sao Tome / Principe / Libreville / Pongara National Park / Pointe-Noire / Luanda / Lobito / Benguela / Mocamedes / Walvis Bay / Luderitz / Cape Town
20 nights
from
£12495
Next Departure:
2 December 2026
Wild Coast of South Africa
A unique escorted tour to experience the wildlife of South Africa's wild coast including the Sardine Run
Itinerary at a glance
- Durban / Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge / Phinda Private Game Reserve / Durban
11 nights
from
£13795
Next Departure:
26 July 2027
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000