Hebridean Princess: Scotland's most extraordinary voyage
When it comes to exploring Scotland's islands, there is truly nothing quite like this.
The Hebridean Princess carries just 48 guests into sea lochs, remote bays and island harbours that are simply beyond the reach of larger vessels. It is less a cruise ship than a floating country house, and life on board feels closer to a classy house party than the cookie-cutter experience of your typical cruise.
From working ferry to royal recognition
The Hebridean Princess has been delighting passengers with this luxurious experience since 1989, when a working MacBrayne car ferry — first launched in Aberdeen in 1964 — underwent a major refit, transforming into one of the most singular vessels in British waters.
Accolades quickly followed: Queen Elizabeth II chartered her twice for private holidays, granted her a Royal Warrant in 2012, and HRH The Princess Royal joined a celebratory lunch on board as recently as 2024. Hebridean Princess remains the only travel brand in Scotland to hold this vaulted warrant.
On board the Hebridean Princess
Life on the water is unhurried and genuinely warm. The 28 individually designed cabins — each named after a Scottish loch, castle or island — perfectly capture a country house hotel vibe: traditional decor, proper bathrooms, a small dram of whisky waiting on arrival.
The social heart of the ship is the Tiree Lounge, where soft armchairs and an inglenook fireplace draw guests together before and after dinner. And from the moment guests hop aboard, everything is included: all meals, all drinks, all shore visits. From champagne on the Skye Deck to legendary chef-prepared picnics, all that guests need to do is show up and tuck in.
Unmissable voyages in 2026
This year's calendar carries several cruises worth planning a trip around. In September, renowned golfer Colin Montgomerie joins the Links Golf Cruise through Argyll and Ayrshire — a seven-night voyage combining Scotland's finest links courses with explorations of Islay, Arran and Gigha. Montgomerie, an eight-time Ryder Cup player and World Golf Hall of Fame inductee, sails with guests for four nights from September 18th.
And don't worry: non-golfers are exceedingly well catered for, with castles, gardens and distilleries woven into the itinerary.
In October, Coinneach MacLeod (aka the Hebridean Baker) joins two 'Flavours of the Hebrides' cruises. The Lewis-raised, bestselling cookbook author brings his warmth and deep knowledge of island food culture on board, adding an extra dimension to a cruise already built around Scotland's finest local produce. 'Flavours of the Hebrides' sails from October 20–27th 2026 and 2027.
For the more active traveller, a series of walking and cycling itineraries rounds out the calendar. Accompanied by expert guides, guests can expect adventure and indulgence in equal measure.
Explore the full 2026 cruise calendar at Hebridean Island Cruises.