Discover the Scottish Isles Aboard the Hebridean Princess
We recently sat down with our pals at Luxury Scotland to learn all about the Hebridean Princess, a luxury small ship cruising the Scottish Isles and beyond, and we have a lot to report back to you. . .
All photos courtesy of Hebridean Island Cruises
The secluded islands of the Hebrides, off Scotland’s west coast, feel a world away, secret, and wild. At every turn, you’re promised precious gems far and wide, each as magical as the last. Luxury Scotland, part of our trusted Virtuoso network, recently let us know all about the Hebridean Princess, a luxurious small vessel carrying a maximum of 48 guests as she explores Scotland’s Western Isles and beyond, so of course we had to share.
Welcome Aboard the Hebridean Princess
Purpose-built for Scotland’s islands, the Hebridean Princess was first launched as a cruise ship 35 years ago and has been delivering unforgettable experiences ever since. Sailing mainly from her home port of Oban, she glides serenely through the water. Her small size means she has access to Scotland’s remotest islands, lochs, and bays, all beyond the reach of larger vessels. This is a chance to cruise the Hebrides with a truly all-inclusive experience, unrivaled comfort, and the refined service you’d expect in a country house.
The Hebridean Princess is designed to perfectly complement Scotland’s wildly beautiful scenery. An understated elegance prevails, and the ambience onboard is redolent of a bygone era—from the Tiree Lounge to the Columba Restaurant and the 28 spacious and individually designed cabins to the sparkling brass and teak deck.
Onboard, the atmosphere is convivial, with her maximum 48 passengers soon becoming friends. And as much as we love that friendly atmosphere, you’re always free to enjoy the luxury of your own private space whenever you so choose.
A one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio ensures exceptionally high service standards, offering unobtrusive but friendly attention. This personal touch and attention to detail set this five-star luxury cruise ship apart from other options. Plus, the experience really is all-inclusive, with all meals, drinks, shore excursions, port taxes, gratuities, and even transfers and parking included.
Peruse a Sample Itinerary
There are dozens of itineraries available to the Hebrides and beyond onboard the Hebridean Princess, but here’s one from 2027 that caught our eye. However, if you have a specific interest, you should definitely let your Poe Travel advisor know because, along with panoramic explorations and wildlife-focused itineraries like below, there are plenty of specialty cruises including photography, active/walking, cycling, golf, and more.
Here’s a quick look at one possible option for a week aboard the Hebridean Princess. . .
Western Isles Wildlife Expedition
May 25-June 1, 2027, 7 nights
Oban to Oban
The Hebrides are the perfect destination to experience the sheer joy of seeing beautiful wildlife species flourish in their natural environments. Home to all manner of beings, from puffins to red deer to orcas, the islands are a real sanctuary and one of Europe’s last untouched natural landscapes.
This cruise also features a guest speaker, environmental consultant and lifelong wildlife enthusiast Andy Bunten, along with knowledgeable wildlife guide David Sexton.
Day 1
Oban Embarkation
Making your way from Glasgow, or elsewhere in Scotland if you have been on a longer exploration, embark your luxury Hebrides cruise in Oban. Dinner will be served onboard this evening.
Day 2
Isle of Rùm
Experience the thrill of a beach landing on the Isle of Rum and go in search of the island’s renowned red deer. Later on, sail the Sea of the Hebrides as you head for the Western Isles.
Day 3
South Uist Island to North Uist Island
From Loch Boisdale, embark on a wildlife tour of the Uists with local guides. These islands boast an incredible array of species including birds of prey, wading birds, the elusive corncrake, marine life, and red deer. The unique machair habitats are teeming with pollinators and ground-nesting birds. You will rejoin the ship in Lochmaddy on North Uist Island.
Day 4
Shiant Isles & Isle of Lewis
A cruise of the dramatic cliffs of the privately owned Shiant Isles allows you to witness the myriad breeding seabirds nesting on the towering cliffs. Later, a visit to the area around the Butt of Lewis provides a stunning nature lover’s paradise that attracts a large variety of both birds and marine life.
Day 5
Handa Island
Each spring, tens of thousands of seabirds migrate to the magnificent sandstone cliffs on Handa Island. This wild island is an internationally important breeding site for guillemots, razorbills, and great skuas. The imposing cliffs provide a chance to spot minke whales along with bottlenose and Risso’s dolphins.
Day 6
Plockton
Set off from picturesque Plockton today on an unforgettable seal boat trip to spot the wild harbour seals swimming alongside your boat or sunning themselves on the rocky outcrops.
Day 7
Isle of Lunga & Isle of Mull
Take a local boat to Lunga, an island designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and where Atlantic grey seals and puffins are abundant. Later, head to the Isle of Mull to set off in search of the native white-tailed sea eagles and golden eagles.
Day 8
Oban Disembarkation
Disembark the Hebridean Princess back where you started in Oban and proceed to your onward travels.
Special Offers
If you happen to be looking for a last-minute 2026 getaway, there is still limited availability on some Hebridean Princess sailings. Many of these sailings now come with savings of 15-20% and/or free travel packages added onto your cruise, so it’s definitely worth asking your Poe Travel advisor for specific availability if you are interested.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Finally, booking for the 2027 is available on the Hebridean Princess, and there are some really exciting itineraries ahead. Along with plenty of chances to explore the Hebrides (their bread and butter!), the Hebridean Princess is branching out next year, with itineraries featuring the following destinations, just to name a few:
Celtic destinations such as Northern Ireland and Wales
Cornwall
Normandy & the Channel Islands
London & southern England
To Go Away on the Hebridean Princess, contact us. We will work with you to select the perfect cruise itinerary for your interests and timeframes and set you on your way with VIP treatment at every turn.