Swan Hellenic and Voyages of Discovery parent All Leisure group has purchased small cruise ship Hebridean Princess for £1.4 million.
The move follows Hebridean International Cruises going into administration (see previous TravelMole stories).
Former P&O Cruises chief Lord Sterling has been named as chairman of Hebridean Island Cruises.
All Leisure aims to ensure that the 30-cabin Hebridean Princess will continue to offer cruises around the Scottish Highlands and islands and through the Norwegian fjords.
The company will continue to operate from its head office in Skipton.
Passengers and travel agents will be contacted during the next few days with further information, the company said.
Lord Sterling said: “For many years I have admired this highly respected cruise ship and know that it has a tremendous following of people who enjoy exploring our beautiful coastline.
“I am delighted to have been invited to become chairman of this highly respected brand, and am pleased to confirm that these cruises will continue to operate as in the past.
“It is important to preserve well-established and much loved British cruise lines; this latest news underscores our commitment to preserving the best of our shipping heritage.”
All Leisure chairman Roger Allard said: “We have been looking to expand our specialist small ship cruise fleet and I welcome Hebridean Princessinto our group, enabling us to expand our range of special interest destination cruise holidays.
We recognise that the Captain, officers and crew of Hebridean Princess, along with the long-serving and dedicated office staff in Skipton, provide a unique cruising experience, which is cherished by her loyal following.”
by Phil Davies
