Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise to Inchcolm Island

Set out on a captivating journey across the Firth of Forth to uncover the enchanting allure of Inchcolm Island. Departing from the quaint town of Queensferry, this scenic sightseeing cruise offers a unique perspective of the iconic Forth Bridges, with the chance to spot local wildlife along the way. Disembarking on the island, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its medieval abbey and wartime defenses, while also indulging in the tranquil beauty of its secluded beaches. Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure or a peaceful respite, this excursion promises to leave you captivated by the rich history and natural splendor of this remarkable Scottish destination.

Good To Know

• Scenic 3-hour sightseeing cruise from Queensferry to explore Inchcolm Island, with prices starting at $26.75 per person and free cancellation.
• Cruise offers panoramic views of the iconic Forth Bridges and a chance to discover Inchcolm Island’s medieval abbey and wartime defenses.
• Opportunities to spot marine wildlife, including seals and puffins, during the cruise and island exploration.
• Spacious vessel with comfortable seating, food and drinks available, and knowledgeable staff providing informative commentary.
• Experience may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain, and additional landing fees apply for accessing Inchcolm Island sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This captivating sightseeing cruise whisks passengers from Queensferry to the enchanting Inchcolm Island, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history.

Priced from just $26.75 per person, this 3-hour adventure provides exceptional value. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with the added flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Once aboard, guests will cruise under the iconic Forth Bridges, seeing the area’s remarkable scenery and wildlife.

With a minimum of 1.5 hours spent exploring Inchcolm Island, visitors can discover its medieval abbey and wartime defenses, as well as enjoy beach relaxation and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Itinerary and Experience

The sightseeing cruise embarks from the Forth Boat Tours Ticket Office at the Forth Bridge, where passengers board the spacious vessel.

The main activities include:

1. Scenic cruise under the Forth Bridges, offering panoramic views.
2. Visit to Inchcolm Island’s medieval abbey and wartime defenses.
3. Free time for beach relaxation and wildlife viewing, with the possibility of spotting seals, puffins, and even dolphins.
4. Minimum 1.5 hours spent exploring the historic island.

Passengers can also opt to pay additional landing fees to access Inchcolm Island’s sites.

The cruise provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

Highlights and Wildlife

One of the highlights of the sightseeing cruise is the panoramic views of the Three Bridges that span the Firth of Forth.

As the boat glides under these engineering marvels, passengers are treated to a unique perspective of these iconic structures.

The cruise then brings explorers to Inchcolm Island, where they can wander among the medieval abbey’s ruins and wartime defenses.

Along the way, keen-eyed visitors might spot local marine wildlife, including seals, puffins, and potentially even dolphins.

The scenic views of the Edinburgh skyline provide a picturesque backdrop, completing this adventure-filled excursion.

Onboard Experience

Passengers aboard the sightseeing cruise will find a spacious vessel with onboard commentary, allowing them to relax and take in the scenic views.

The onboard experience offers several highlights:

1. Comfortable seating for enjoying the journey in comfort.
2. Food and drinks available for purchase, perfect for refueling during the excursion.
3. Knowledgeable staff providing informative commentary about the landmarks and wildlife along the way.
4. Ample deck space and viewing areas to capture the best photographs of the stunning Forth Bridges and the Edinburgh skyline.

With these amenities, the cruise promises an immersive and memorable sightseeing experience.

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Accessibility and Important Information

For those considering the sightseeing cruise to Inchcolm Island, it’s important to note that the experience may not be suitable for wheelchair users. The island’s gravel paths and uneven ground can pose accessibility challenges. However, visitors can still enjoy the experience by being mindful of their mobility needs.

Information	Details
Landing Fees	Adults: £7.50, Concessions 60+: £6.00, Children 5-15: £4.50
Exemptions	Historic Environment Scotland, English Heritage, or Cadw members
Meeting Point	Forth Boat Tours Ticket Kiosk, blue kiosk with flags
Customer Ratings	4.7/5 based on 82 reviews, with high marks for transportation (4.8/5) and value for money (4.6/5)

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes and clothes, and a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife sightings.

Scenic Cruise Under the Bridges

The adventure begins the moment the boat departs from the Forth Boat Tours Ticket Office, gliding gracefully under the iconic Forth Bridges.

Passengers are treated to a breathtaking panorama as the vessel navigates the scenic waterway. The experience offers:

1. Unparalleled views of the Three Bridges, an engineering marvel that spans the Firth of Forth.
2. A chance to witness the sheer scale and grandeur of these structures up close.
3. Glimpses of the bustling Queensferry harbor and the charming town that surrounds it.
4. A serene journey that allows travelers to soak in the tranquil beauty of the natural surroundings.

The scenic cruise sets the stage for the main attraction – the exploration of the historic Inchcolm Island.

Explore Inchcolm Island’s History

Upon disembarking on Inchcolm Island, visitors step back in time, immersed in the island’s captivating history that spans centuries. Explore the well-preserved medieval abbey, a testament to the island’s religious significance. Explore the island’s wartime past, uncovering the remnants of military fortifications that once guarded the Firth of Forth. Wander the scenic paths, discovering hidden gems that reveal Inchcolm’s intriguing past.

Historic Highlights	Architectural Marvels	Military Legacy
12th-century Abbey	Romanesque and Gothic Styles	World War I Defenses
Monastic Ruins	Impressive Carved Stonework	World War II Coastal Guns
Hermit’s Cell	Ornate Doorways and Windows	Ammunition Bunkers

Rejuvenating Beach Relaxation

After exploring Inchcolm Island’s captivating history, visitors can now unwind and rejuvenate on the island’s tranquil beaches.

The golden sands provide a serene setting for a range of relaxing activities:

1. Sunbathe and soak up the rejuvenating rays, taking in the panoramic views of the Firth of Forth.

2. Stroll along the shoreline, listening to the calming sounds of the waves lapping against the rocks.

3. Beachcomb for unique shells and pebbles, a meditative activity that connects you with the natural world.

4. Enjoy a picnic while admiring the surrounding scenery, a perfect way to recharge and reconnect with the peaceful island atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks onboard the cruise. Enjoying a picnic while taking in the stunning scenery of the historic Forth Bridges and Inchcolm Island makes for a delightful and flexible outing.

Are Dogs Allowed on the Cruise?

Dogs are not recommended on the cruise, as the vessel’s onboard experience and landing at Inchcolm Island may prove challenging for our canine companions. The tour is best enjoyed by humans seeking a scenic exploration of the island’s historic wonders.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise is not wheelchair accessible, as the paths on Inchcolm Island are gravel and uneven. However, the vessel itself offers comfortable seating and panoramic views for all visitors to enjoy the scenic journey.

Can I Book a Private Tour for My Group?

While the tour may not be wheelchair-friendly, private groups can indeed book the sightseeing cruise. They’ll cruise under the Forth Bridges, explore Inchcolm Island’s historic sites, and spot local wildlife – an adventurous, scenic outing for any group.

What Is the Maximum Group Size Allowed on the Cruise?

The cruise accommodates groups of any size, with no maximum limit specified. However, larger parties may need to book multiple tickets to ensure everyone can enjoy the scenic voyage to Inchcolm Island’s historic sites and wildlife.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey across the Firth of Forth, where the iconic bridges frame a breathtaking panorama. Discover the rich history and natural beauty of Inchcolm Island, strolling along tranquil beaches and exploring the medieval abbey. This scenic sightseeing cruise offers an immersive experience, inviting you to learn about the charm of Queensferry and create cherished memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: