Small splendour: Hebridean Princess docked in Mull
Built in 1964 as a floating nuclear bunker for British VIPs during the Cold War, Columba was for many years a car ferry before becoming the luxury cruise ship Hebridean Princess. It carries 50 guests in 30 cabins – and its past passengers include the Queen and other members of the British royal family. Here’s my quick photo tour from my recent voyage…
To read my World of Cruising review, and see my cabin video, please click here
The Tiree Lounge: Have you ever seen a cruise ship with a brick fireplace?
The logs are real but the fire is fake
Another view of the lounge
The well-stocked bar and whisky display – all drinks are included
Afternoon tea selection
The Columba restaurant
Couples are given their own tables for two – singles are invited to dine in groups with officers
The central table laid for a buffet breakfast – cooked items are available to order
The library
Another view of the library
By royal appointment: The crest given after the Queen sailed on Hebridean Princess, displayed in another seating area
Cosy: Original teak flooring displayed in another alcove
Sunlit: The seating area at the stern of the ship
Top deck: More chairs and loungers
Another view of the top deck
On the bridge: As well as new technology there is a ship’s wheel and engine order telegraph
Control centre: In the engine room
Classic engineering: One of the Manchester-made engines
Souvenirs: The onboard shop
All aboard: Instead of using electronic cards, passengers take brass plates bearing the name of their cabin to show if they are going off the ship, and replace them when they return.
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