A little over 25 years from when she was first launched, Chalice still enjoys an enviable reputation, with many guests returning again and again to enjoy what has become known as the ‘Chalice Experience’. Now owned and operated by Chris and Judi Jackson, Chalice is licensed to carry up to 12 guests and 5 crew.

Cruises begin in at Easter and run through the summer until September, varying in length from between four and nine nights. The shorter cruises will carry guest around the coastal wasters of Mull, Morvern and Ardnamurchan, while longer journeys range out the Small Isles, Skye, the Outer Hebrides and St Kilda.

At just under 70 feet long, Chalice can easily anchor in small, quiet bays, avoiding commercial piers, while guests can enjoy warm and comfortable accommodation with good all round views from inside or out. All cabins have twin berths, a radiator, fitted carpet, natural light and ventilation and a 240volt power supply. Mains power is available whenever the ship is underway and at other times when the ‘silent run’ generator is operational.

Chalice cruise holidays are billed as ‘Wilderness Cruises’. The reason for this is that the Scottish Hebrides are an area of outstanding natural beauty - the last natural wilderness in Europe. The scenery and the wildlife are all around and although many guests join specifically for a ‘wildlife cruise’, you don’t need to be any sort of expert to enjoy the wildlife or the scenery. Whatever your reason for joining Chalice, the wildlife and scenery are all around you. All you need to do is look!

Artists and photographers can now benefit from specialist instruction too, while they enjoy a cruise around the Western Isles. Chalice is now providing two cruises especially to cater for these two interests. National magazine Outdoor Photography are running a reader holiday with professional wildlife photographer Chris Gomersall, whilst wildlife artist Bruce Pearson will be leading the ‘Awash with Colour’ cruise in April.

All of the food is freshly prepared on board by the cook who is happy to cater for vegetarian or vegan diets and food allergies providing that guests give advanced notice of this when booking. Hot drinks are available from the servery all day and wine, beer and soft drinks from the bar. On occasions, guests may also be provided with a picnic lunch to maximise time ashore when the itinerary allows.

If you’re interested in a Scottish wildlife holiday with a difference, check out the Chalice website at www.mvchalice.com