A North Uist-based wildlife tours business has its sights set on expansion plans after the owners received specialist scale-up advice from Business Gateway.
Lady Anne Wildlife Cruises runs tours from mid-April to September in the waters around Ronay, North Uist and Benbecula. Visitors can see a side of North Uist only accessible by boat and the uninhabited island of Ronay and discover a range of wildlife such as otters, seals and eagles, while learning about the history of the islands.
The business is run by Nick Ingledew and Nye Stenning. Nick started the business in 2010 after 30 years as a fisherman. Nye became a director of the business in 2024 after working with Nick since 2021.
They have since created a new website, an online booking system and begun using social media accounts.
Nye uses his background in photography to capture content on trips, as does crew member Rosie who is a professional wildlife photographer. The business is now offering a new photography-focused trip.
Nick and Nye approached Business Gateway in 2024. They were introduced to adviser Alastair Macleod, who gave one-to-one advice on becoming a limited company and on taking forward their expansion plans.
Through Business Gateway, the business was awarded grant support from the Outer Hebrides Digital Support Scheme (OHDSS), which is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by the Comhairle’s Business Gateway team.
This funding assisted with the purchase of a new camera to capture more photography and allowed them to purchase essential computer equipment. Both purchases, which wouldn’t have been possible without the grant funding, have helped improve the marketing efforts for Lady Anne Wildlife Cruises.
Nye Stenning, co-owner of Lady Anne Wildlife Cruises, said:
“Putting your own stamp on an established business can come with its challenges, but having Alastair and the Business Gateway team’s support was a huge help. They are helping us access the funding needed to turn our ideas into reality. We can’t thank them enough for the support they’ve given us.”
Alastair Macleod, Business Gateway adviser said:
“Nick and Nye have some fantastic plans for the business and we have been pleased to support them. It’s great to see them bringing new aspects to the business and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.”
To find out more about Business Gateway, visit https://bgateway.com.