Ward
You make a valid point about UK ratings but then I think Ally answers that one very well. It's the difference of asking the "locals" and going by the raters opinion which is likely based on limited play. In mitigation I'd say I've only played CB once or twice and walked it once although I have done an awful lot of research on its history etc if that counts for anything. In contrast I've played Nairn quite a number of times over the years.
As an aside of the few UK based raters I know, nearly all seem to be American. I say nearly because I'm sure I probably know a Brit who is a rater but off hand I can't think of anyone.
Niall
Niall - perhaps as in everything else in life, the UK raters are just more discreet about it.
I've played Nairn a few times and enjoyed every round... but on a 10 round split between the two courses I would give Cruden Bay an 7-3 advantage. To me CB is that good and that much FUN. Though I am a Yank, I don't think that is an uninformed opinion as I've played nearly 120 different GB&I courses, so I have a frame of reference. And, yes, I am definitely a sucker for bold links courses as opposed to flatish ones. Having said that, however, I'd have a harder time choosing between CB and Old Morey, which is as you know, also one of my favorites. (Thank you, by the way, for introducing me to Lossiemouth!!!)