The Hebridean Princess has been put up for sale after its parent company, Hebridean International Cruises, fell into administration.

The luxury cruise liner tours the Scottish highlands and islands, and was chartered by the Queen for a private family voyage on her 80th birthday.The company’s troubles are being attributed to its other vessel, the Hebridean Spirit, which operated on its international routes, mainly in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Sale of the vessel was completed just before the company was put into administration, with the official line being that this proved too little too late.

The company’s withdrawal from international operations last month included it selling the largest of its two fleet, resulting in a number of job losses both at sea and at its North Yorkshire headquarters.

Those who have booked cruises are covered by the International Passenger Protection Insurance scheme.

The 72-metre Hebridean Princess is one of the world’s smallest cruise ships, accommodating 49 passengers and 38 crew. Its style is akin to that of a Scottish country house, with 30 tartan-bedecked cabins, a large fireplace and a small library.

About 40 passengers departed last night on a cruise of the western isles of Scotland from the ship’s home port of Oban.
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