The MV Cuma & Crew
The MV Cuma
The MV Cuma was initially built for scientific marine research. The hull is of timber and was built by Samuel White of Cockenzie in 1967 to Lloyds +100 A1 specifications.
The vessel was converted and upgraded for commercial diving and cruising charter operations and complies with the Marine and Coastguard Agency Code of Practice Regulations. The vessel is 18.5 metres long and is powered by a 200 horsepower Gardner engine which is renowned for its reliability. Ample power is delivered by a quiet running generator.
The wheelhouse is well equipped and the instrumentation includes radar, GPS navigators, VHF radios, navtex, MF single sideband radio, chart plotter, auto pilot and a depth sounder/fishfinder. There is a diving compressor feeding the bottle bank on deck. There is also a dive ladder and tender with outboard motor.
Accommodation & Meals
Comfortable, centrally heated, accommodation is provided for 12 persons in six two-berth cabins, each with hot and cold water. Duvets, linen, and towels are provided. There are three toilets and two showers. Open air seating as well as a large covered deck saloon provides excellent areas for eating and viewing. The crew have separate accommodation.
The galley is equipped with gas cookers, a microwave, fridge and deep freeze. A tumble drier is also provided.
Full board includes Scottish breakfast, lunch, dinner, teas and coffees, prepared by the Cuma's superb cook. Packed lunches are also supplied. Guests can supply their own alcohol to consume onboard.
The Crew
Murdo, your highly experienced skipper, was born and brought up on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis and, like many an Islander, he was attracted to the sea from his childhood days. He spent some time in the Merchant Navy sailing The Seven Seas, but then he decided to return home and start fishing. After many years as a fisherman around the Western Isles, he decided on a change of occupation and bought the MV Cuma over twenty years ago. Murdo has a lifetime's knowledge of the Outer Hebrides' seaboard.
The MV Cuma's crewmen are also highly experienced ex-Merchant Navy seamen, and they are well practised in all shipboard duties and first-aid, with a vast working knowledge of the islands and their environs.