Guests on many of our 2015 cruises will be invited to take part in important research on the distribution of the larger marine animals which we encounter on our voyages throughout the Hebrides. This is possible because we are delighted that Vivi Bolin will be coming on board as onboard and onshore Guide for our guests. Vivi is a biologist with a masters degree in conservation biology and a personal passion for seabirds and cetaceans. She is expert in spotting and identifying whales and dolphins.
Cetaceans, seals and basking sharks as well as sunfish sightings will be recorded using Logger, software used by scientists across the world. Vivi will record sightings, and guests will also have the unique opportunity to get involved if they wish. The data recorded during the cruises will be shared with the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust to feed into important scientific analysis. Passengers with SLR cameras will also be encouraged to take photographs of dorsal fins; good quality shots are very valuable to scientists as the pictures can be used to track individual whales and dolphins.
Vivi worked for the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and BirdWatch Ireland and moved to Mull to work for the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust. Vivi is from Finland and currently living on the Isle of Mull.
Thank you for another brilliant cruise. We visited some lovely small islands during this trip and saw a lot of wildlife including minke whales, loads of dolphins including 3 separate groups bow riding with us and harbour porpoises plus otters, sea eagles and golden eagles. Our guide Conor was brilliant spotting wildlife and his plant knowledge matched any encyclopedia as he gave us an overview on them all along with the geology of the region. Craig, our Bosun, was really attentive with looking after us all, Sian's meals were always a treat whilst keeping within the several dietary requirements onboard and Chris, our Skipper, took us to some wonderful places and always found a beautiful anchorage for us each night. Onshore Emma sorted out all of the administration and arrangements quickly and kept us up to date with the trip details. Nothing was too much for her as she also helped out with a car transfer suggestion when the usual travel plans were difficult due to flight changes. Another perfect trip thank you to you all....
Melanie Rogers: 11 September 2021Skye and the Small Isles: Hebridean horizons