Hebridean Princess

The Hebridean Princess was an unusual visitor today actually coming into St Peter Port Harbour to berth alongside. She arrived early afternoon after the St Malo ferry had departed which enabled her to use that berth. The Hebridean Princess left St Helier late morning. as part of her "Footloose to the Channel Isles" cruise from Portland in Dorset. On her approach to St Peter Port guests had the opportunity for a view of Herm, one of the islands not on the cruise.

Originally built as a ferry she is at home in the north cruising the Islands for Hebridean Island Cruises. With "All Inclusive cruises" a headline for the company the free internet and "no tipping policy" is a change from some other lines. In the background as she enters St Peter Port is the Grossherzogin Elisa a 1909-built ship going through many changes in her life before her current role as a sail training vessel.

The Berlitz Cruising Guide tells us that the liner has a "Scottish Country House ambience" which is enhanced by the flowers at the stern. The Queen chartered the ship for her 80th birthday celebrations giving the Hebridean Princess a unique heritage.

Bit different to last night with the Prinsendam illuminated outside St Peter Port. Hebridean Princess quietly alongside in St Peter Port, no sound of engines tonight to send guests asleep. Castle Cornet not illuminated yet, it was 9.30 the night before.