What are people saying about their trip on Provident?
We ask our guests to tell us about their expectations, their experience above and below decks, the food and the crew.
All comments are anonymous
If there was wind, we sailed. If none, we walked across virgin bog and highland. If hungry, the food was delicious. If exercise was required, we hauled up sails, heavy ones and lots of them. If wanting a chat, there were 8 passengers and three crew-all interesting in one way or another. If there was sun or rain, we enjoyed being on deck. If nostalgia was wanted, Provident had it at 99 years old-built as a Brixham trawler with no deference to modernisation
It was memorable. If it was scenery you are looking for, the Hebrides are unbeatable. If good sailing waters, there maybe wind but not much chop on the sea, the islands breaking it up.
The crew were extremely skilled and competent, and I felt completely safe in their hands. They made sure everything worked without shouting or much stress, which is a tricky skill in sailing!
I loved getting to have a go of sailing and being at the helm! The crew were so good at teaching and speaking through what we were doing and why. And we got to see so many beautiful places from the sea!
An amazing week! The accommodation was much better than 'good' - very cosy and comfy bunks and even electric heads and a great shower - luxury! Fantastic sailing in stunning scenery and lots of birds and wildlife, including eagles and dolphins. The food was excellent and plentiful, always delectable aromas from the galley. All in all, an unforgettable experience on a beautifully restored vessel.
I liked the fact that we were buying and using local produce as we moved from place to place. I was happy with the organic way in which decisions about destinations and walks came about, and understand the importance of this rather than trying to stick to a fixed schedule, but I can imagine that others might find this process a bit more frustrating - maybe something to emphasize at the start, and reinforce from time to time en route.
I wish you many happy voyages ahead as you carry on with the work of preserving and restoring Provident while giving people the opportunity to experience the magic of the sea aboard a traditional sailing vessel.
It was good fun. Everyone was very kind, calm and explained things in a clear way. They didn't get frustrated when they had to repeat things multiple times for those new to sailing. They were very enthusiastic and encouraging throughout. I loved that everyone got to go on the helm and that Steve was right there offering support during choppy bits. Every day I felt like I had achieved something or learnt something new. I enjoyed swimming from the boat and our hikes.
I had no prior sailing experience and yet I had the chance to learn about and experience sailing. Every crew member was happy to answer questions and explain everything. Also they were ready to involve you in the actual sailing as little or as much as you wanted, anytime. I can honestly say that the trip sparked a desire to learn more about boats and sailing in general. The crews enthusiasm for sailing and Provident really shone through
It was a fascinating introduction to how a sailing ship operates, and opened my eyes to all the variables that a skipper has to balance up - wind conditions, the current and future state of the tides, the selection and sequencing of the mooring stops - all sifted and weighed with experience. The sailing was well-balanced with stops and onshore walks, so I was very happy here too.
The food was GREAT. Honestly, I was superimpressed with the variety of dishes, the fact that every taste and dietary restriction was catered to, and all of it was absolutely delicious. I've told Morag I'd buy the Provident cookbook, and I meant it! I thought it was great that every afternoon there was a homebaked cake, or cookies... honestly , food was great but it was also plenty. I did not lose any weight ...
(The food?) Unbelievable ! Far exceeded my expectations. Gulio is an incredible cook who delivered every meal with a smile and tremendous grace. Steve's Indian curry night was really delicious too.
Thank you very much for what was a wonderful holiday. We were really lucky with the weather, I suppose, but that trip was a dream. And it hit the spot in terms of meeting our needs and expectations as a group. I hate to say it, and I know it all depends on the market, but considering the fantastic food and drink, it was a bargain too.
All very good. Chris, as 'relief skipper', did a good job - kept us informed about best sailing/destinaton options depending on wind/tide, was always in charge when setting off or anchoring, but didn't micromanage and let the Mates (and us 'guest crew') get on with things. Ben and Jamie as the Mates were excellent - expert, helpful, patient and informative, and also helped with some of the cooking & meals. And as mentioned above re food - Issy is so competent, and with a permanent smile and a chat. I thought the crew and our group as guests all gelled very well, it was a nice relaxed atmosphere throughout.
You've got it perfect. Thanks for keeping heritage boats on the water.