Some of the species we will aim to see include Minke Whales, Harbour Porpoise and Common Dolphins, Risso, Bottlenose Dolphin and possibly Orca; Dolphins often seek out the Hjalmar Bjørge to ride her bow wave. Being nearly eye-to-eye with these graceful Dolphins make for an unforgettable encounter and is often the highlight of our guests day.
At this time of year the Sea of the Hebrides waters can be great for some of the larger whales including Humpbacks and the Fin Whale, the second largest animal to have ever lived. We have even had Northern Bottlenose Whale on several occasions.
The high, flat, viewing tops of the Hjalmar Bjørge provide the perfect vantage point to scan the waters for a surfacing whale or leaping dolphins. Whilst we don’t forget to keep a weather eye open for seabirds. Such as… Gannets, Manx Sheerwaters, Fulmars, Guillemots, Razorbills, both Great and Arctic Skuas, Manx Shearwaters, Storm Petrels, all the usual suspects.
At this time of year you may also may be lucky enough to spot other scarcer forms of Skua such as the long-tailed or Pomarine species, Sooty Shearwaters and even a Leach’s Petrel hiding amongst the Storm Petrels, for the very observant. White-tailed Eagles patrol many of the local sea lochs and cliffs, with Golden Eagles often spotted over the hill ridges too.
We will get to visit the Small Isles. Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna. These are known for their rugged beauty, wildlife, and isolated charm. Each have dramatic scenery and abundance of wildlife and their own way of life. Wildlife includes Red Deer, White-tailed Eagles and some very rare plants. To the North of the Small Isles lies the largest island of the Inner Hebrides; the Isle of Skye. Skye is celebrated for its dramatic mountain scenery, and rich history. The impressive Cuillin mountains provide a heroic backdrop to capture soaring Golden Eagles and White-tailed Eagles fly before.
Each evening we anchor somewhere special, where we can watch the sun set with a glass of wine or a whisky! Our skippers know all the best anchorages, so you feel as though you have the islands all to yourself.
