​Hebridean Princess Celebrates 55 Years

Launched on 12 March 1964 and named Columba, the ship was originally built as a car ferry whilst operated between the Western Isles in Scotland.
 
After 35 years of service as a car ferry, the ship underwent a major refurbishment in 1989, emerging as the cruise ship Hebridean Princess.

For two years following the refurbishment the ship retained a car-carrying capability but this was later removed and saw additional cabins added.
 
Hebridean Princess now carries up to 49 passengers in comfort and luxury, served and entertained by some 37 crew members. The small 2,112 gross tonne cruise ship measures just 72 metres in length, making her perfect for cruising to out of the way idyllic destinations.
 
The ship offered cruises around the Western Isles of Scotland but nowadays offers cruise itineraries extending right around the British Isles and even as far as the Norwegian Fjords.
 
Hebridean Princess has been privately chartered by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II twice. In 2006 the Queen cruised aboard the ship to celebrate her 80th birthday. In 2010, Her Majesty chartered the vessel again, cruising on board for two weeks around the Scottish Islands.