Visit East Lothian

Bass Rock Boat Trip

For years, I have seen pictures of the Bass Rock on those 'top must-visit places in Scotland' lists, you know the ones, yet nothing could have prepared me for the surprise I got when I finally experienced it in person.

I was awestruck.  It is so much closer to land than I had expected, and yes, I knew that it was close to land but still, it was much closer than expected.  I saw it in all of its glory long before we reached the shore of North Berwick, a sight that I had not anticipated so early on and it was wonderful.

Safe to say, we struck lucky by visiting East Lothian on one of the hottest days of the year so far and with that, I was really thankful for my planning on this occasion, as we had pre-booked one of the visit Bass Rock sightseeing tours with  Sula Boat Trips  where the cool breeze and sea spray were very much welcomed!

But I'll be honest, I had a lot of anxiety ahead of this boat trip as I recently injured my foot and was afraid that any (small as they may be) jumps could damage it further.  However, there was no need to worry as there was a small gangway with barriers on either side that made access very easy and comfortable.

We booked the first sailing of the day, 10 am, for our trip.  You do have to arrive at North Berwick harbour around 20 minutes before departure but it was nice to be up and see the town a little earlier in the day as it was much quieter.  We also had the chance to admire the gorgeous houses and views before our trip.

Once aboard, we took our seats overlooking the water and settled in.  I know that many of us tend to scramble for the best seats and the best views when on these trips, especially if you enjoy photography and want those dramatic shots with no obstruction, but the boat does turn and stop frequently to allow everyone that opportunity, so do not worry about your seating!

bass rock boat tours

The tour is 1.5 hours long, leaving you with plenty of time to explore North Berwick afterwards if you are on a brief visit as we were, and I think the trip was a great length for the younger children on board while still feeling that you had enough time to experience and enjoy the Bass Rock.

As we had gorgeous weather, we passed lots of families and children enjoying the sun while we made our way out of the harbour, watching as they took part in activities like sailing, canoeing and jumping into the water.

We enjoyed a lovely, smooth journey towards  Craigleith Island  and once we arrived, we had the pleasure of seeing puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes among many other birds.

Our guide for the trip, Caroline, was fantastic.  She was engaging, personable, enthusiastic, and extremely knowledgeable.  I feel that we learnt so much about the birds along with the history of the Bass Rock and the surrounding area thanks to her passion, which was clear to see.

Once we learnt a little about the birds on Craigleith, we made our way to the main event.

Standing at approximately 350 feet at its highest point, the Bass Rock is an imposing volcanic plug that is now home to the world's largest colony of Northern gannets.

The island is so imposing and incredible to see close up, and it only gets more impressive as you make your way around.  Now obviously, the gannets are the big attraction.  Around 150,000 gannets are nesting on the island, we even had the opportunity to see some guga (gannet chicks) and despite the scores of birds flying above your head, it's a very serene experience.

And yes, it comes with its faults, I did get pooped on… twice!

But it's a small price to pay and without going into too much detail, it's easily cleaned and doesn't stain.  Although, you might want to consider taking a hat if you can!

bass rock boat tours

Making your way around the island and navigating your eyes through the mass of Scottish seabirds, we ventured closer to the rocks and towards the sea caves. The smell was pungent.  Manageable, no retching, but as you can imagine with so many birds, it's not entirely pleasant!

We did not go into any of the sea caves but that allows a clearer view of the birds nesting, the fluffy baby guga and the opportunity to see some of the rituals and behaviours of the birds, which were really interesting.  Many traits are just like us in a lot of ways.

As you continue around the island, you will spot the now out of use foghorn.  It is visible on one of the highest points, and though there's not a huge amount to see, we were told a couple of facts about its time in use.

Shortly thereafter, as you make your way to the other side of the island, you can see the Lighthouse.  I'm not sure if this is a personal thing, or if we all have an appreciation for lighthouses, but I love to see unique ones, especially when they have a story.

The Bass Rock Lighthouse is no longer operated by a keeper on site, I believe it is all operated by technology now.

And in terms of history, we learnt that Robert Louis Stevenson's cousin built the Lighthouse but another fact that really shocked me is that the Bass Rock was considered the Scottish Alcatraz.  I'm not implying anything as recently as Alcatraz, but many centuries ago, people were banished to the rock as punishment.

We were told a really interesting story about some prisoners that had been on the island, yet escaped the guards.  Of course, I won't spoil that for you in case you choose to go on the trip, but I'm definitely going to be reading more about that now that I'm home!

All while you are listening to the history of the island and trying to take in the surroundings, the experience of seeing the sheer number of gannets flying above your head and diving by the water is incredible. They are beautiful birds and it's not until you are close that you can really appreciate how big they are.  They have a wingspan of around 6ft!  Yet, they are so uninterested in the boat and the people that it does have tranquil elements.  You are very much in their world.

All in all, I would consider this to be an all-around age and family-friendly trip.  We even had a dog on our boat so do not consider that completely off-limits!

bass rock boat tours

As we made our way back to the harbour, we passed the ruins of Tantallon Castle in the distance along with a section of the John Muir Way, which is a coast to coast walking and cycling route.

These were two things that I was quite excited to see as I will be returning to North Berwick shortly to hopefully see the castle a little closer, experience more of the town and attempt a portion of the John Muir Way by bike.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Sula Boat Trips and I would highly recommend it but there are many other tour options to choose from such as the  Scottish Seabird Centre , both of these options are priced around £26 per adult and £10 for children (although prices can differ).  Alternatively, you can book  BlueWild  for exclusive boat hire.

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A guide to Bass Rock near North Berwick

Bass Rock

The Bass Rock is an impressive island/rock on the North Berwick coast in the Firth of Forth, east Scotland. The island is now a wildlife sanctuary but also has a long history of human habitation, with castles, chapels and prisons built on the volcanic rock... but a more modern lighthouse still exists today. This steep-sided volcanic rock is 351 ft (307 metres) above sea level and lies about 3 miles northeast of North Berwick.

Looking out to sea from North Berwick, the Bass Rock actually looks quite strange with its angular shape and steep sides. Its most striking feature is its bright white colour (a mixture of the white nesting gannets and their excrement smeared all over the rockface!) - it looks like an iceberg!

The geology of Bass Rock

Bass Rock is a volcanic plug comprised of phonolitic trachyte rock. James Hutton, a famous Scottish geologist, was the first to recognise it as an igneous intrusion in 1847. He wrote about it at length in his book "Edinburgh and its Neighbourhood, Geological and Historical: with The Geology of the Bass Rock".

Bass Island

The gannets of Bass Rock

Amazingly, 150000 gannets nest on Bass Rock in peak season over the spring to autumn months. They arrive at Bass Rock in late February and leave in late October, with most travelling to the west coast of Africa.

What are gannets?

The gannet is one of the largest seabirds in the British Isles, with a total wingspan of 2 m (6.5 ft). Their bodies are bright white giving way to yellow necks and heads; their beaks are a distinctive white with black highlights. Gannet wings are white but have black tips.

The largest northern gannet colony.

Gannets hunt by plunging headfirst into the water at speeds of 60 mph! It's quite amazing to watch; they fold their bodies into an arrow-like shape and pierce the water to catch fish. Absolutely amazing birds.

Interesting gannet facts:

Gannets have a lifespan of 17 years.

Gannets only lay one egg at a time.

Eggs take 42-46 days to incubate.

Fledgings take 84-97 days to mature.

Gannets are currently listed as amber in a green/amber/red conservation status.

In 2022 the gannet colony was significantly affected by  Avian Flu . With such high concentrations of birds on the rock, it spread like wildfire throughout the population. Hundreds of dead birds have washed up on the shores of East Lothian.

Sir David Attenborough

Famous TV wildlife specialist Sir David Attenborough has described the Gannet colony at Bass Rock as one of the 12 wildlife wonders of the world. Naturalist Chris Packham described the rock as "the most exciting birding spectacle in the UK".

Scottish Seabird Centre

The Scottish Seabird Centre is on a coastal peninsula west of Bass Rock. Dedicated to helping visitors learn about Scotland's marine wildlife, the centre offers a 5-star experience with many exhibits, workshops, and science shows.

The centre even has live camera feeds from the island if you don't feel like the epic boat trip.

Scottish Seabird Centre

History of Bass Rock

Here is a short chronological list of Bass Rock's history.

600 AD - The first inhabitants of Bass Rock were said to be Christian hermits.

756 - St Baldred, "The Apostle of the Lothians", dies on the island. The remains of his chapel still exist today.

Late 1000s - The island was said to have been a gift from King Malcolm III of Scotland to the Bass family, from which the island is now named. The gannets of Bass Rock were appropriately used in the family crest for the Bass family.

1318 - The Bass is owned by the Lauder family.

1567 - Sir Robert Lauder, a Mary Queen of Scot's supporter, is defeated at the Battle of Carberry Hill.

1650s - The island castle is used to resupply Oliver Cromwell's fleet.

1671 - Sir Alexander Ramsay sells Bass Rock to the crown. The island was used as an Alcatraz-style prison during Cromwell's invasion of Scotland. The existing castle was repurposed for holding prisoners; notable inhabitants were Walter Stewart (Earl of Atholl and King James I cousin), Covenanters, Jacobites and members of Clan Mackay.

1691 - Four Jacobite prisoners capture the island fortress while the garrison was busy unloading coal from a ship. They would hold the castle for three years, defending it against all attackers. They were eventually allowed to leave and become free men once more.

1701 - Most of the castle is dismantled.

1706 - Ownership of Bass Rock passes to Sir Hew Hamilton-Dalrymple breaking ownership of the rock from the Lauder family after six centuries! Sir Hew was also the owner of nearby Tantallon Castle.

1902 - Robert Stevenson builds a 20-metre-tall lighthouse near the landing site of the island. The castle remnants received some repair work.

1988 - The lighthouse is no longer manned.

Use in Literature

"Catriona" and "Kidnapped" by Robert Louis Stevenson, "The Lion Is Rampant" by Ross Laidlaw and "The New Confessions" by William Boyd all prominently feature the Bass Rock.

In "Kidnapped", Stevenson described Bass Rock as:

“It is just the one crag of rock, as everybody knows, but great enough to carve a city from.”

Tantallon Castle and Bass Rock Lighthouse.

How to get to Bass Rock

Bass Rock is inaccessible as it is a good distance offshore from North Berwick in East Lothian.

The Scottish Seabird Centre does offer trips out to the rock, both to land on it or just loop around it. If you don't fancy that level of adventure, Tantallon Castle is a brilliant place to view the rock from onshore.

How to get to the Scottish Seabird Centre

The centre is located in the town of North Berwick, directly next to North Berwick Harbour.

North Berwick is most easily accessed from the A1 motorway via one of the access roads:

What3words: ///lecturers.thin.sparkles Google maps location

Boat trips to Bass Rock

As mentioned in this article, the Scottish Seabird Centre offers boat trips to Bass Rock; here are the trips on offer:

Bass Rock Experience : The only way to land on the rock and explore, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. £140 per person and over 16s only.

Seabird Catamaran Cruise : The 55-seat catamaran offers an hour-long cruise around Craigleigh and Bass Rock, but no physical landing on the rock. Adults £27, Children (4 to 16) £12.

Three Islands Seabird Safari : In the islands of Lamb, Craigleith, and Bass Rock, this trip is taken on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat). This ride is a bit rougher, so unsuitable for small children or pregnant women.

Gannet Diving Photography Trips : A boat trip specifically for photographers, perfect for shooting gannets diving into the water just off Bass Rock. Adults only, £105 per person. Two-hour duration.

Tips for visiting Bass Rock

Waterproofs are a must, especially on days with rougher seas.

Take a travel sickness tablet a few hours before your trip if you don't have your sea legs.

Bringing binoculars or a scope is highly recommended.

FAQs on Bass Rock

Here are a few frequently asked questions on Bass Rock:

Does anyone live on Bass Rock?

Not anymore; the lighthouse keepers left the rock in 1988 when it became fully automated. The gannets are now the sole inhabitants.

Why is it called Bass Rock?

The name comes from the Bass family, the earliest proprietors of the rock.

Can you land on Bass Rock?

The Scottish Seabird Centre offers  Bass Rock landing trips  at the cost of £140 per person for 16 years+ only. A boat trip to the rock is a fantastic opportunity for wildlife photography as it is the world's largest colony of northern gannets. The Seabird Centre has exclusive landing rights.

Where is the best place to view Bass Rock?

Tantallon Castle and Seacliff Beach are brilliant locations to view Bass Rock from the shore.

Is Bass Rock also called Ailsa Craig?

No, Ailsa Craig can be found offshore from Girvan on the west coast of Scotland. They do look similar, so it is easy to see why they can be confused. Ailsa Craig is also much larger.

Are there any other locations near Bass Rock worth visiting?

For film fanatics, St Abbs, the filming location for " New Asgard " in "Avengers: Endgame", is about a 50-minute drive to the southeast.

Tantallon Castle is an impressive castle ruin located on the coast; it looks out to Bass Rock and yields many great photo opportunities.

Torness Nuclear Power Station offers tours lasting 1.5 hours, Monday to Thursday, between 9 am and 4 pm.

Golfing opportunities at Glen Golf Course, Archerfield Links, Winterfield and Dunbar Golf Clubs.

John Muir Country Park includes forest walks, play areas, parks and beaches.

Gullane Beach to the west has great facilties and Gullane Village itself is lovely.

Tantallon Castle view of Bass Rock.

Key information on Bass Rock

Bass Rock is an island offshore from North Berwick.

The rock is coloured white as it is covered in white birds and bird excrement!

Prisons, castles and religious buildings have existed on Bass Rock in the past.

Bass Rock is a volcanic plug.

Bass Rock is the world's largest colony of northern gannets, 10% of the world's population.

A lighthouse exists on the rock but is now unmanned.

The best places to see Bass Rock are Tantallon Castle and Seacliff Beach.

Boat trips are available from the Scottish Seabird Centre.

Beach view of Bass Rock.

Bass Rock makes for an awesome photo opportunity on your trip to east Scotland and is awe-inspiring to look out to from Tantallon Castle, Seacliff Beach and North Berwick. The boat trips would be an absolutely brilliant adventure, and I would love to experience it one day; if you ever try it, please let me know!

All information was correct at the time of writing, please check things like entry costs and opening times before you arrive.

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Welcome to Sula Boat Trips

Family fun at sea, bass rock sightseeing tour.

1.5 Hour Bass Rock Sightseeing Boat Trip

Spectacular 1.5 Hour sightseeing boat trips to the world famous Bass Rock from North Berwick. Modern and very family friendly boat, the most comfortable way to see the magnificent Bass Rock up close.

Isle of May Sightseeing Trip

3 Hour sightseeing trip around the Isle of May. There will be no landing on the island but you can get up close to the magnificent cliffs along the western side of the island. During the winter months you should be able to see some of the 2000 grey seal pups that are born on the island every year.

North Berwick to Anstruther Ferry

East Lothian to Fife Ferry Service

Direct passenger ferry crossing between North Berwick and Anstruther. Perfect to explore the coastal towns on the other side of the Forth

Evening Cruise

Make sure you book your place on this spectacular summer evening cruise and enjoying views over the islands of the Firth of Forth. This leisurely hour long cruise is a magical way to end any day, passing the islands of Craigleith, the Lamb and Fidra. Relax onboard taking in the stunning views across the sea and the sandy shoreline of East Lothian. A wonderful opportunity to see the various seabirds and marine wildlife basking in the evening light.

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Bass Rock Visitor Guide

Bass Rock

Bass Rock is an island located in the outer part of the Firth of Forth in the east of Scotland. It’s approximately 1.2 miles offshore and 3.1 miles north-east of the East Lothian town of North Berwick. This sheer-sided volcanic rock is 107 meters at its highest point and is home to a large colony of Northern gannets.

The Scottish Seabird Centre operates boat trips to Bass Rock from North Berwick, allowing visitors to experience the island’s spectacular natural beauty and wildlife up close, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and sightseers alike.

Bass Rock

The Bass Rock, situated in the Firth of Forth in East Lothian, is an imposing volcanic plug renowned for its stark beauty. Home to the world’s largest Northern gannet colony, it’s a natural wonder for wildlife enthusiasts and sightseers. Its historic lighthouse adds charm to this truly unique island.

Just over a mile off the shore of North Berwick lies one of the most impressive islands in the Forth Estuary – the mighty Bass Rock. This rock outcrop is home to the largest northern gannet colony in the world and bird watchers from across the planet head there to take boat trips around the island to watch thousands of swarming birds make nests and hunt for food.

The Bass Rock is enormous and reaches 107 metres above sea level at its highest point, with most of the 320 million-year-old volcanic plug standing vertically above the pounding waves of the Firth of Forth . Swirling above it are countless birds engaged in an endless display of aerial acrobatics, while seals and dolphins are frequently seen below. Perhaps that’s why Sir David Attenborough described the Bass Rock as one of the twelve wildlife wonders of the world.

The gannets put on a fantastic show for visitors and it’s quite a spectacle to see them filling the sky overhead. With the Bass Rock as a background, it has to be one of the best photo opportunities in Scotland, but you can’t exactly put your shoes on and take a walk out there so you have two options to see the rock and its noisy residents up close.

First off, you can head to The Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick to view the wildlife through powerful telescopes and the remote-controlled cameras installed on the rock. The second (and my recommended option) is to book a trip on one of the tour boats that sail out from the Scottish Seabird Centre each day. It’s an exciting cruise and one that’ll keep both wildlife enthusiasts and keen photographers very happy during the sail.

Bass Rock

The Highlights

1: Bass Rock is renowned for its large and vibrant colony of gannets which is why it’s often referred to as one of the ‘Wildlife Wonders of the World’. It’s a great place for birdwatchers and a trip around it is guaranteed to be enjoyed by the whole family.

2: The catamaran boat trip from the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick is good fun, but if you want a more adrenaline-fuelled trip, try the RIB (a type of fast open dinghy). I’d give it a miss if the Firth of Forth is a bit choppy, though – unless you want to get soaked.

3: With its spectacular wildlife and stunning views, Bass Rock is a fantastic spot for photography. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’ll find plenty of great photo opportunities – especially if you join one of the tours that land on it.

Visiting Tips

1: Wear a waterproof jacket for the boat trip. The wind whips up the sea no matter the time of year and a decent jacket will stop you from getting cold and wet as you’ll mostly have to sit outside. If nothing else, consider sticking a disposable poncho (Amazon link) in your bag.

2: If you intend to go on this trip and photograph the birds I’m afraid a phone simply won’t cut it as they’ll be too far away to capture. This is one occasion where a proper camera with a zoom lens comes into its own. If you don’t have a zoom lens, the next best thing is a pair of binoculars (see my binocular reviews ).

3: You can get a great land-based view of Bass Rock from Berwick Law , but if you want a close-up view, visit the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick which has live-action camera feeds streamed directly from the rock.

places to visit in East Lothian

Tourist Information

More than 150,000 gannets nest on the Bass Rock at the peak of the season but these numbers gradually reduce towards the end of October when they set off on their long journey south, with many travelling as far as the west coast of Africa.

When you first catch sight of the enormous monolith glinting polar-white in the middle of the Firth of Forth you could easily think it’s either covered in snow or the rock has been painted white, but in fact, what’s causing the colour are countless bird poops plastered across its surface! Nature lovers have plenty to look at without the gannet’s presence as the rock is also home to shags, guillemots, razorbills and puffins , and seals can usually be seen hauling themselves onto the rocks below.

Visitors who want to see the Bass Rock up close can book a tour on one of the boats operated by the Scottish Seabird Centre. These boats are either a 12-seat RIB or a 55-seat catamaran, with the catamaran taking you around three outcrops in this part of the Firth of Forth – the Lamb, Craigleith, and of course, the Bass Rock itself.

While looking through the binoculars in the seabird centre is interesting enough, taking a boat trip is the only way to fully appreciate the size of Bass Rock and the number of birds that live on it.

Bass Rock

Departing from the Scottish Seabird Centre, the tour boat sails out into the Firth of Forth for a return trip that takes around two hours, which is fantastic fun when the sea is calm but not so much when the weather closes in and the waves get a bit choppy. The inflatable RIB is more exciting as it’s much faster but then it’s also less relaxing (and much wetter) and not so good for photographers.

The Seabird Centre also offers private boat tours and charters and I have it on good authority that taking the tour that lands on the rock is an incredible experience (they have exclusive landing rights), although it’s quite expensive.

The rock is uninhabited today but in the past, it was settled by Saint Baldred (an early Christian hermit) in 600AD and was also the site of a castle that was used as a prison in the 17th century. These days it’s left alone for nature to make use of thanks to its current owner Sir Hew Hamilton-Dalrymple whose family acquired it in 1706 from the Lauder family who had owned it for the previous six centuries.

Although Bass Rock is now free from humans there are a couple of man-made structures on it – namely the lighthouse that was built in 1902 and the remains of Saint Baldred’s chapel. There are also a few cameras that have been installed to keep watch on the birds, but other than that the rock has been given back to nature.

Bass Rock

Things to Do

Boat Tours : Get close to the action by taking a boat tour around the rock. These tours give you an excellent opportunity to appreciate the sheer size of Bass Rock – and you might see seals, dolphins, and puffins on your journey.

Birdwatching : Bass Rock is internationally renowned as a wildlife reserve, hosting the world’s largest colony of Northern Gannets. With binoculars and a keen eye, you can watch these birds as they dive into the sea to fish, or see them nurturing their chicks during breeding season.

The Scottish Seabird Centre : Located in North Berwick, the Scottish Seabird Centre offers interactive live cameras that provide a bird’s eye view of Bass Rock. Learn more about the gannets and other seabirds and the conservation efforts in place to protect them.

Photography : Bass Rock’s dramatic landscapes and extraordinary wildlife make it a paradise for photographers. The white rock (due to the large number of gannets), the turquoise sea, and the dramatic lighthouse provide a unique backdrop for photos.

Bass Rock

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get to bass rock.

Bass Rock is a volcanic plug situated in the Firth of Forth, just offshore from North Berwick in East Lothian. Access to Bass Rock is organized by the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick (Address: North Berwick, EH39 4SS).

Can you land on Bass Rock?

It’s not permitted to land on Bass Rock unless as part of an organized tour from the Scottish Seabird Centre. This is to limit disturbance to the bird colonies.

Does anyone live on Bass Rock?

The Bass Rock is uninhabited, but historically it was home to a prison, a castle, a chapel, and a small settlement.

What is Bass Rock made of?

Bass Rock is formed of phonolitic trachyte from the Dinantian age, which is the same rock that Berwick Law is made from. The rock covers 7 acres (3 hectares) and has an elevation of 351 feet (107 metres) at its highest point.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

bass rock boat tours

Honest guide to Scotland & N. England

Bass Rock boat trips

📌 North Berwick, East Lothian ★★★★★

Gaze out into the Firth of Forth from North Berwick and your eyes will be drawn to a strangely shaped island just offshore. The unlikely volcanic plug of Bass Rock only measures a few hundred metres from end to end but reaches a height of over 100 metres with sheer cliffs on three sides. The side you can see from the Lothian mainland is slightly more hospitable… but why is it almost completely white in colour? The answer: over 150,000 gannets during breeding season and their droppings – this is the largest single colony for the species anywhere in the world. Taking a boat trip out to the rock is surely one of the most memorable experiences you can have in the Scottish Lowlands. It’s an awesome, noisy, stinking spectacle where cameras and binoculars are a must, with a hood (to protect yourself from gannet droppings) also recommended! The rock’s steep sides means you can get right up close to the birds; gannets are obviously the main attraction but there are a few guillemots, razorbills and shags wherever they can gain a fragile foothold on the cliffs. We can personally recommend the Scottish Seabird Centre ‘s catamaran cruise, which also takes in the growing puffin colony on nearby Craigleith. Several other trips are available, including expensive excursions which include landing on the rock itself.

bass rock boat tours

📌 Bass Rock is off the East Lothian coast between North Berwick & Dunbar 🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NT 602873 🛰️ GPS coordinates: 56.077630,-2.640467
💬 Most trips depart from North Berwick harbour, 🧭 NT 554857 / 🛰️ 56.061626,-2.718454
🚆🚌 Train / bus to North Berwick 🚗 Street parking nearby North Berwick harbour – unrestricted spaces are a little further away
⌚ Generally at least daily, approximately April to October – check official websites 🎫 £28+ adult / £12+ child depending on trip type & operator
💬 Operators include the Scottish Seabird Centre (🔗 seabird.org ) & Sula Boat Trips (🔗 sulaboattrips.co.uk )

Related Features

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Scottish Seabird Centre

Does Maggie still do boat trips to Bass Rock

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Sorry Brenda – I’m not sure who Maggie is.

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bass rock boat tours

Sula Boat Trips

Any visitor to North Berwick should explore the beguiling majesty of the Bass Rock – and the Sula Boat Trips are ready to take you there. Family-friendly, their modern boat trip spends ninety minutes getting you up close and personal with the rock on the Sula III. They’ve been running boat trips since the 1970s – so no one knows the Bass Rock like their expert team does.

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Laura Thomas Co

Edinburgh & Lothian

North Berwick Beach

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Scotland Road Trip

The Bass Rock East Lothian: A Guide to Scotland’s Iconic Seabird Sanctuary

by amber | Jul 9, 2023 | East Lothian Attractions | 0 comments

bass rock boat tours

The Bass Rock, located in East Lothian, Scotland, is a striking and iconic landmark that has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries. This towering volcanic rock formation rises 107 meters above sea level and is home to over 150,000 seabirds, including gannets, puffins, and guillemots. Its unique shape and prominent location make it a popular destination for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

The Bass Rock has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century when it was used as a retreat by Saint Baldred. Over the centuries, it has been used for various purposes, including as a fortress, a prison, and a lighthouse. Today, it is a designated nature reserve and is managed by the Scottish Seabird Centre. Visitors can take a boat tour around the rock or even land on it to explore its rugged terrain and observe the birds up close. The Bass Rock is truly a remarkable natural wonder that is not to be missed when visiting East Lothian.

Geographical Overview

The Bass Rock is a small island situated in the Firth of Forth, off the coast of East Lothian in Scotland. It is about 2 km offshore and can be seen from several vantage points on the mainland, including Edinburgh and Berwick Law.

Volcanic Formation

The Bass Rock is a volcanic plug, formed during the Carboniferous period, around 320 million years ago, during the Dinantian epoch. The rock is made of phonolite, a volcanic rock that is rich in alkali metals. The plug is a remnant of a long-extinct volcano, which was eroded away by the sea and glacial action over millions of years.

The Bass Rock is one of several volcanic formations in the area, including Berwick Law, which is another volcanic plug located just south of Edinburgh. The rock is also home to a large colony of gannets, which have made the island their home for centuries.

Bass Rock History

The Bass Rock has a long and fascinating history that spans over 1,500 years. The earliest known record of the island dates back to the 7th century when it was used as a hermitage by St. Baldred. In the 12th century, a castle was built on the island by the Lauder family, who owned the Bass Rock for several centuries.

The castle was strategically located and played an important role in the wars between Scotland and England. During the Commonwealth period, the castle was used as a prison for Covenanters, who were Scottish Presbyterians who opposed the rule of the English monarchs.

The prison on the Bass Rock was notorious for its harsh conditions. The prisoners were kept in cramped and unsanitary conditions, and many died from disease and starvation. The most famous prisoner was John Blackadder, a Presbyterian minister who was imprisoned on the island for his religious beliefs.

During the time of Oliver Cromwell, the castle was used as a garrison and was heavily fortified. The castle was eventually abandoned in the 18th century, and it fell into disrepair.

Despite its dark history, the Bass Rock is now a popular tourist attraction and is home to a large colony of gannets. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island and learn about its fascinating history.

Relevant Entities:

  • Lauder family
  • Commonwealth period
  • Tantallon Castle

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Bird species.

The Bass Rock is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The most famous inhabitants of the rock are the Northern Gannets, with over 150,000 birds nesting on the island during the breeding season. The Scottish Seabird Centre offers visitors the chance to observe these magnificent birds up close with their live camera feeds.

Other species of seabirds that can be found on the Bass Rock include Guillemots, Razorbills, Shags, and Kittiwakes. Puffins, with their distinctive colourful beaks, are also present on the island, although in smaller numbers compared to other species.

Marine Life

In addition to its impressive bird population, the Bass Rock is also home to a variety of marine life. The waters around the island are rich in nutrients, making it an ideal habitat for a range of fish and other sea creatures.

Visitors to the Bass Rock may be lucky enough to spot dolphins, porpoises, and seals swimming in the surrounding waters. The island’s location also makes it an important breeding ground for grey seals, with around 2,000 pups born on the island each year.

Sir David Attenborough has described the Bass Rock as one of the “wildlife wonders of the world”, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Bass Rock is a must-visit destination.

Bass Rock Lighthouse

The Bass Rock Lighthouse is a prominent feature of the Bass Rock, located in the Firth of Forth, East Lothian. The lighthouse was built in 1902 and stands tall at 20 meters high. It was designed by David Alan Stevenson, a Scottish lighthouse engineer and a member of the famous Stevenson family, which includes the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson.

The lighthouse was built to guide ships safely through the treacherous waters around the Bass Rock. It is equipped with a powerful light that can be seen from up to 26 nautical miles away. The lighthouse also features a foghorn, which is used during times of low visibility to alert ships of the presence of the rock.

The Bass Rock Lighthouse is still in operation today, and it is maintained by the Northern Lighthouse Board. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but visitors can take boat tours around the Bass Rock to see the lighthouse up close.

Tourism and Recreation

The Bass Rock is a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can take boat trips from North Berwick to the island, providing stunning views of the rock and its surrounding area. Boat trips are a great way to experience the island and its wildlife up close.

Boat trips to the Bass Rock are available from North Berwick throughout the year. The trips are operated by various companies, including RIB boat trips and larger vessels. Visitors can choose from a range of options, including guided tours and self-guided trips.

Scottish Seabird Centre

The Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick is an excellent resource for visitors interested in learning more about the Bass Rock and its wildlife. The centre provides information on the history and ecology of the island, as well as offering interactive exhibits and live webcams of the seabird colonies.

Visitors can also take boat trips from the centre to the Isle of May, another important seabird colony in the area. The centre is open year-round and is a great place to start your Bass Rock adventure.

Cultural Significance

The Bass Rock is a site of great cultural significance, with a rich history that spans centuries. The rock has been the subject of literary works and has played a role in religious practices.

Literary References

The Bass Rock has been mentioned in several literary works, including the famous play “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare. In Act 1, Scene 3, the character Banquo describes the rock as “the Witches’ Island” and speaks of the “caverns / Where the wild sea-mew / Breeds”. The rock has also been mentioned in the works of Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Religious Significance

The Bass Rock has a long history of religious significance. It is believed that St. Baldred, a Christian hermit, lived on the rock in the 8th century. St. Baldred is said to have established a chapel on the rock and to have performed miracles there. The rock continued to be a site of religious significance in the following centuries, with Christian hermits living on the rock at various times.

Today, the rock is still a site of religious significance, with an annual pilgrimage taking place in honor of St. Baldred. The pilgrimage involves a walk from North Berwick to the rock and a service on the rock itself.

Nearby Islands

The Bass Rock is not the only island worth visiting in the area. There are several other islands nearby that offer unique experiences and stunning views. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Craigleith is a small island located just off the coast of North Berwick. It is home to a large colony of puffins, which can be seen up close during the breeding season. The island is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with a variety of seabirds nesting there. Visitors can take boat tours to the island or view it from the coast.

Lamb is a uninhabited island located east of North Berwick. It is a nature reserve and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its unique geology. The island is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Visitors can take boat tours to the island or view it from the coast.

Fidra is a small island located just off the coast of North Berwick. It is perhaps best known as the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. The island is home to a lighthouse and a large colony of seabirds. Visitors can take boat tours to the island or view it from the coast.

Isle of May

The Isle of May is a larger island located in the Firth of Forth. It is a national nature reserve and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. The island is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, as well as grey seals. Visitors can take boat tours to the island or stay overnight in the bird observatory.

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bass rock boat tours

Bass Rock Gannet Diving Photography Trips

2 Hour specialist boat tour to photograph diving gannets

Gannet Diving Specialist Photography Trip

These boat trips are designed for those who want the chance to capture the classic diving gannet shot as they enter the water just off the Bass Rock. The tour lasts approximately two hours, during which you will have the opportunity to see hundreds of gannets diving around the boat. We will be using chumming (throwing fish) to encourage the gannets to dive.

Gannets dive in all sorts of different ways so you should come away with some incredible images.

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Enjoying Wildlife – Scotland and Beyond

Boat trip to Bass Rock

bass rock boat tours

Bass Rock is the world’s largest Northern Gannet colony. I have been wanting to visit it for ages and finally made it at the weekend.

We booked on a fast RIB boat trip organised by the Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick. This “Three Island Seafari” trip also visited the Lamb and Craigleith but it was quite late in the season to see much birdlife on these Islands but Bass Rock itself did not disappoint.

Since the boat we were on was a RIB and it was quite windy we did get very wet but I guess that just made it a bit of an adventure. But I did have to work hard to keep my camera equipment and binoculars dry. Slower, more sedate boats are available.

bass rock boat tours

Before reaching Bass Rock we saw some Common Guillemots and a Razorbill. There are a lot of Guillemots and Razorbills close to west coast shore at the moment and in rivers. Over the last few weeks I have seen Guillemots in the Forth around Stirling, for example. Whilst the cause is not yet fully understood it is not natural, healthy behaviour and sadly many dead birds have been found too .

bass rock boat tours

On a happier note we got a nice close-up view of a Grey Seal around Craigleith. Along with a few Shags and Cormorants drying their wings.

bass rock boat tours

As we approached Bass Rock the air started to fill with Gannets, our largest native seabird. Quite a sight.

bass rock boat tours

We also came across several juvenile Gannets in the water, not yet able to fly. Juvenile Gannets have the same basic shape as the adults but their plumage is completely different which means many people don’t realise they are Gannets at all. After a life of being cared for by two parents they leave the nest weighing more than their target weight and are unable to fly as a result. It will be a few weeks before they master this skill.

bass rock boat tours

Once at Bass Rock itself we saw the cliffs covered in Gannets by the thousand – a truly spectacular sight, with all the accompanying sounds and smells.

bass rock boat tours

We were able to pick out more Gannet chicks (known as guga’s) some still with their downy covering others moulting this off. Some were practicing their flying skills.

bass rock boat tours

As we continued around the island every available nest site was occupied with thousands of Gannets. At the peak of the season Bass Rock is home to over 150,000 Gannets, over half of the European total!

bass rock boat tours

Gannets are actually highly territorial birds on the nest, albeit protecting a very small area. If a guga (Gannet chick) falls from the nest outside the territory the parents will no longer recognise it as offspring and therefore they will no longer care for it and it will perish. There is a clear line between their territory and that of their neighbour and if that line is crossed, warnings will be given and if they are ignored a fight will erupt. Mostly the fighting Gannets will fall into the water to continue the fight. These fights are often to the death as a Gannet beak is a formidable weapon. We saw one dead gannet being eaten by a Greater Black-Backed Gull following such a fight. We also interrupted a dramatic fight in progress.

bass rock boat tours

As our boat approach the Gannets stopped fighting each other to get away from us and I felt we effectively broke up the contest. This was probably good news for the weaker bird.

As we left the Island we again saw countless Gannets leaving the rock going out to the fishing grounds across the North Sea.

bass rock boat tours

A magnificent bird and great experience. Recommend a visit.

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Isle of May Landing trips

Landing trips to the Isle of May

April - September: Adult: £60 Child: £45 (age 7+ only)

Isle of May landings

This stunning National Nature Reserve is steeped in history and is a haven for wildlife, supporting internationally important colonies of breeding seabirds in the summer and grey seals over winter.

Onboard our 12-seat RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you will travel to the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, which is owned and managed by NatureScot .  Click HERE to see a video of our RIB trips . 

The Isle of May is the largest puffin colony on the east coast of Britain (see puffins from April to July) and a quarter of a million seabirds breed on the island.

bass rock boat tours

Look out for different wildlife throughout the seasons -  click HERE for the wildlife calendar  with details of what you may see during your boat trip. You might also be lucky enough to see seals and even dolphins.

bass rock boat tours

These boat trips leave North Berwick Harbour and you will also travel past the Bass Rock (weather permitting), the world's largest colony of Northern gannets and BBC Countryfile Magazine's Nature Reserve of the Year 2014/15 & 2015/16.

Check out the Isle of May page on the  Scotland's National Nature Reserves  website and the Isle of May blog .

All Isle of May landing trips must be booked in advance and due to the popularity of these trips we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for trips in May, June and July. For boat trips terms and conditions, click here. 

  • Trips run April to Autumn, subject to weather and sea conditions
  • Boats are fast. Waterproofs are not provided - please bring your own.
  • 10% discount for members of the Seabird Centre
  • Not suitable for anyone with back ailments or who is pregnant
  • No food outlets on the island, but there are toilets. Visitors are permitted to take food but must bring all litter back to the mainland and dispose of it properly
  • Keep to the paths on the island at all times

Key things to note

  • Our boat trips are led by experienced guides. They will be on hand to answer any questions you may have on the island and will also guide around the island.
  • We are members of Wild Scotland and WiSE and follow the wildlife watching codes.
  • Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, Delta or Switch.
  • Please present your booking confirmation on arrival - arrive no later than 20 minutes prior to your departure.  
  • Binoculars are available to hire from our Boat Office.

We are pleased to provide our members with a 10% discount on boat trips - this is applicable to the named member(s), who must also be the passenger(s). Full ticket price will be applicable at the time of booking - when you collect your tickets from the Boat Trip Booking Office you will get your refund on presentation of a valid membership card. Alternatively, you can get the discount at the time of booking at the Boat Trip Booking Office. 

Terms and conditions

Please refer to the T&Cs for your trip – when you book, you will be asked to confirm that you have read these.  

If you are unable to book online, bookings can be made over the phone. 

For safety reasons, some of our boat trips have age and fitness level restrictions, so please check that you will be able to travel.

Safety is our priority and all boat trips are subject to weather, sea conditions and demand (minimum passenger numbers apply). Weather and sea conditions can change quickly and occasional cancellations at short-notice may be required. Trips are not guaranteed but full refunds or alternative dates and times are offered in the event of cancellation for the reasons above. 

We recommend advance booking: if your trip has to be cancelled or delayed we will try to contact you as soon as possible. Please provide a mobile number, at the time of booking, so we can contact you if required. The Scottish Seabird Centre and its partners cannot be held responsible for any of your costs resulting from cancellation, amendment or delay of your trip. 

bass rock boat tours

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bass rock boat tours

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Address:   Hotel Radisson Royal Hotel Pier, 2/1 Kutuzovskiy Avenue Bld. 1, Moscow, Russia-121248 Gorky Park Pier, Krymsky Val, 9, Moscow, Russia-119049 Getting There: Both locations are easily accessible through metro, taxi, or car

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Depart from Gorky Park Pier  Gorky Park Pier Krymsky Bridge (Crimean Bridge) Peter the Great monument Cathedral of Christ the Saviour Moscow Kremlin St. Basil’s Cathedral – Ustinsky Bridge Skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Krasnokholmsky bridge Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure Vorobyevy (Sparrow) Hills Kievsky railway station Ukraina Hotel Gorky Park Pier

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COMMENTS

  1. Bass Rock Sightseeing Boat Trips

    Sightseeing boat trips to the world famous Bass Rock from North Berwick. The best way to get out and see the magnificent Bass Rock up close, be amazed by the 150,000 Gannets which nest on the rock every year, peer into the sea caves to see the Cormorants and Guillemots perched on the narrow ledges, and hear the seals howling from the rocky beaches inside the natural tunnel that runs right ...

  2. Wildlife Boat Trips

    Wildlife Boat Trips We offer a fantastic range of boat trips around the islands in the Firth of Forth, including the incredible Bass Rock gannet colony (featured in BBC1's Wild Isles). Trips run from late March to early October. Look out for different seabirds and marine wildlife throughout the spring and summer season.

  3. Bass Rock Experience

    Please contact our Boat Manager on [email protected] if you would like to receive email notification of the launch of our 2025 Bass Rock landing trip dates. Thank you. ... The Bass Rock is very exposed and the terrain can be difficult. Suitable clothing must be brought - waterproofs, walking boots, hat, gloves, sunglasses, suncream are all ...

  4. Bass Rock Boat Trip: Unforgettable East Lothian Adventure

    The tour is 1.5 hours long, leaving you with plenty of time to explore North Berwick afterwards if you are on a brief visit as we were, and I think the trip was a great length for the younger children on board while still feeling that you had enough time to experience and enjoy the Bass Rock.

  5. Scottish Seabird Centre

    Gannets need a friend (c) Scottish Seabird Centre. Catamaran trip around the Bass Rock and the island of Craigleith. On board our custom-built, 55 seat catamaran, enjoy an hour-long cruise around the island of Craigleith and the Bass Rock, the world's largest colony of Northern gannets and BBC Countryfile Magazine's Nature Reserve of the Year 2014/15 & 2015/16.

  6. Seabird Catamaran Cruise

    This stable 55 passenger vessel was custom built in 2012 to provide a family friendly Bass Rock boat trip experience. This trip takes you around Craigleith with its 15,000 nesting Puffin's before heading down to the world famous Bass Rock with it's 150,000 nesting Gannets. Fantastic trip for all ages including well behaved dogs.

  7. A complete visitor guide to Bass Rock in east Scotland

    Boat trips to Bass Rock. As mentioned in this article, the Scottish Seabird Centre offers boat trips to Bass Rock; here are the trips on offer: Bass Rock Experience: The only way to land on the rock and explore, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. £140 per person and over 16s only.

  8. Sula Boat Trips Welcome to Sula Boat Trips

    Bass Rock Sightseeing Tour. 1.5 Hour Bass Rock Sightseeing Boat Trip. Spectacular 1.5 Hour sightseeing boat trips to the world famous Bass Rock from North Berwick. Modern and very family friendly boat, the most comfortable way to see the magnificent Bass Rock up close. Prices. Adult. £ 28.00. Child (age 5-15)

  9. Bass Rock Visitor Guide

    Visitors who want to see the Bass Rock up close can book a tour on one of the boats operated by the Scottish Seabird Centre. These boats are either a 12-seat RIB or a 55-seat catamaran, with the catamaran taking you around three outcrops in this part of the Firth of Forth - the Lamb, Craigleith, and of course, the Bass Rock itself.

  10. Bass Rock boat trips

    🌍 Location. 📌 Bass Rock is off the East Lothian coast between North Berwick & Dunbar. 🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NT 602873. 🛰️ GPS coordinates: 56.077630,-2.640467 💬 Most trips depart from North Berwick harbour, 🧭 NT 554857 / 🛰️ 56.061626,-2.718454. 🚆🚌 Train / bus to North Berwick

  11. Bass Rock

    Hope this is the correct boat. Booked Braveheart with Dougie to take us to the Bass Rock. Superb experience. Dougie took us within 6 ft of the rock. As well as being a superb skipper, he is immensely knowledgeable about the history of the rock and it's variety of bird life. A great trip.

  12. Sula Boat Trips

    Any visitor to North Berwick should explore the beguiling majesty of the Bass Rock - and the Sula Boat Trips are ready to take you there. Family-friendly, their modern boat trip spends ninety minutes getting you up close and personal with the rock on the Sula III. They've been running boat trips since the 1970s - so no one knows the Bass ...

  13. Bass Rock

    The steep cliffs of Bass Rock tower above as you paddle past and the gannets, who are the guardians of the rock, circle in their thousands above and nest on the rock in such quantities they turn it white. On leaving the gannets and cliffs the trip continues to a magnificent castle beside perfect beaches, what more could be asked for, it's ...

  14. The Bass Rock East Lothian

    The Bass Rock Lighthouse is still in operation today, and it is maintained by the Northern Lighthouse Board. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but visitors can take boat tours around the Bass Rock to see the lighthouse up close. Tourism and Recreation. The Bass Rock is a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

  15. Scottish Seabird Centre

    We are a conservation and education charity with an award-winning visitor centre, in the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick. Visit our interactive Discovery Experience to explore and learn more about the wonders of Scotland's marine environment, including the spectacular Bass Rock which is the world's largest northern gannet colony and featured in BBC1s Wild Isles.

  16. North Berwick Boat Trips to the Isle of May and Bass Rock

    I was invited as guest to experience the Isle of May and Bass Rock by the Scottish Seabird Centre on this North Berwick boat trip. Non-branded photos courtesy of the Seabird Centre, taken by Phil Wilkinson. These guys are long-established as one of the leading tourism attractions in Scotland, and with good reason.

  17. Scottish Seabird Centre Online Bookings Bass Rock Gannet Diving

    Bass Rock Gannet Diving Photography Trips. 2 Hour specialist boat tour to photograph diving gannets. Gannet Diving Specialist Photography Trip. These boat trips are designed for those who want the chance to capture the classic diving gannet shot as they enter the water just off the Bass Rock. The tour lasts approximately two hours, during which ...

  18. Boat trip to Bass Rock

    Bass Rock is the world's largest Northern Gannet colony. I have been wanting to visit it for ages and finally made it at the weekend. We booked on a fast RIB boat trip organised by the Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick. ... Boat trip to Bass Rock. Posted by Wild Scot September 27, 2021 October 28, 2023 Posted in Coast, Islands, Scotland.

  19. THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Tours (with Prices)

    I got a nice luxury boat. It has good restaurant inside too. Boat tour is around 1.5 hours. The total tour was awesome . There are many historical and main buildings and places in moscow can view from the boat. Each place announce by boat staff. There is a tour map also inside the boat. Staff is really helpful and good service done for us.

  20. THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises (Updated 2024)

    Set sail on your destination's top-rated boat tours and cruises. Whether it's an entertaining and informative boat tour or a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, these are the best Moscow cruises around. Looking for something more adventurous? Check out our list of must-do water activities in Moscow. See reviews and photos of boat tours & water sports in Moscow on Tripadvisor.

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    Rent a boat for the river trip in Moscow with your company of friends. Set up a unique event on a modern and cozy ship. If you want to come ashore we've got bus tours to offer. Choose the route and start the journey. Walking tours in the center of Moscow, with the guide's amazing story, lasting 1.5 hours.

  22. Scottish Seabird Centre

    These boat trips leave North Berwick Harbour and you will also travel past the Bass Rock (weather permitting), the world's largest colony of Northern gannets and BBC Countryfile Magazine's Nature Reserve of the Year 2014/15 & 2015/16. Check out the Isle of May page on the Scotland's National Nature Reserves website and the Isle of May blog.

  23. Moscow Boat Tour, Book Now @ Flat 14% Off

    What To Expect from Moscow boat tour. Enjoy a relaxing cruise through the pristine Moskva River Join this exciting Moscow boat tour and spend a pleasurable time onboard a luxury yacht with your loved ones while enjoying a relaxing sail and appreciating the panoramic views of the city's skyline and landmarks. Be amazed by the panoramic views of ...