Edinburgh’s waterfront offers several excellent boat tours that showcase Scotland’s natural beauty and maritime history. The most worthwhile excursions cruise the Firth of Forth, where you’ll spot seals and seabirds while passing under the massive Forth Bridge. My favorite trip is the 90-minute Inchcolm Island cruise, which includes time to explore a well-preserved medieval abbey. For a royal connection, combine any harbor cruise with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia – the Queen’s former floating palace. While day trips to Loch Ness are possible, they’re long and the closer boat options provide better value. These are our recommended boat tours that maximize your time and money in Edinburgh.
Key Points
-
A 12-hour small-group tour from Edinburgh to Loch Ness and the Highlands, featuring a 50-minute cruise on Loch Ness for potential monster sightings.
-
A 1.5-hour cruise from Queensferry, offering views of the Three Bridges, Blackness Castle, and Forth Bridge, with opportunities to spot seals and puffins.
-
A hop-on, hop-off bus tour across Edinburgh, combined with a boat tour to explore the medieval abbey and wildlife on Inchcolm Island.
-
A 45-minute boat ride to Inchcolm Island, followed by a guided tour of the 12th-century abbey and hiking trails.
-
An 8-hour shore excursion from Edinburgh, covering the city’s highlights, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia, with guided navigation and flexible scheduling.
Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise From Edinburgh
For those seeking an immersive exploration of the Scottish Highlands and the famed Loch Ness, the Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh is a must-consider option.
Departing from Edinburgh, this 12-hour small-group tour takes you through stunning scenery, including the Glencoe Mountains and Cairngorms National Park.
The highlight is the 50-minute Loch Ness cruise, where you’ll have the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster.
With rave reviews, a comfortable mini-coach, and an informative driver-guide, this tour offers an excellent way to experience the best of the Scottish Highlands in a single day.
Read our full review: Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise From Edinburgh Review
Book now: Check availability
Queensferry: Firth of Forth Blackness Castle Cruise
Exploring the Firth of Forth aboard a sightseeing cruise from Queensferry offers a captivating way to experience the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
The 1.5-hour cruise takes you past the iconic Three Bridges, Blackness Castle, and the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge, with live commentary providing insights into the area’s significance.
Marvel at the castle’s role in “Outlander” and “Outlaw King,” and spot local wildlife like seals and puffins.
The cruise departs from the Forth Boat Tours office at Port Edgar Marina, and you can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from past guests, this is a must-do activity for your Edinburgh itinerary.
Read our full review: Queensferry: Firth of Forth Blackness Castle Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bus Tour & Inchcolm Island Boat Tour
Set out on a captivating sightseeing adventure through Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks aboard a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
Explore the city’s highlights, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle, the regal Holyrood Palace, and the vibrant Princes Street.
Then, venture out to the scenic Inchcolm Island, where you’ll board a boat tour and discover the island’s medieval abbey, wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views.
This excursion combines the convenience of a bus tour with the charm of a boat ride, offering a well-rounded introduction to Edinburgh’s top attractions.
With a 4.8-rating and starting from $22.95 per person, this tour provides an excellent value for your money.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Sightseeing Bus Tour & Inchcolm Island Boat Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Boat Tour and Guided Tour to Inchcolm Island
After exploring Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, venture out to the scenic Inchcolm Island to discover its medieval abbey, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views.
Set out on a boat tour that departs from South Queensferry, just 9 miles from central Edinburgh. During the 45-minute crossing, you’ll witness the island’s impressive 12th century abbey and keep an eye out for seals, puffins, and other marine life.
Once on the island, a guided tour will unveil its rich history and natural wonders. With ample time to explore, you can hike the trails, visit the museum, and soak in the tranquil island atmosphere.
Read our full review: Boat Tour and Guided Tour to Inchcolm Island Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour & Royal Yacht Britannia
Enjoy Edinburgh’s rich history and iconic landmarks on this comprehensive shore excursion.
Explore the city’s Old and New Towns, visit the majestic Edinburgh Castle, and marvel at the Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating residence of the British Royal Family.
With an 8-hour duration and flexible booking options, this tour offers the perfect way to make the most of your time in port. Knowledgeable guides will navigate the narrow streets, while you enjoy the flexibility of free time for lunch and exploration.
Just remember to purchase entry tickets in advance and dress comfortably for this exciting journey through Scotland’s captivating capital.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour & Royal Yacht Britannia Review
Book now: Check availability
Edinburgh: Loch Ness Cruise, Glencoe Tour & 2 Highland Walks
Explore the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands on this comprehensive 12-hour tour from Edinburgh.
You’ll cruise Loch Ness in search of the legendary Nessie, admire the dramatic scenery of Glencoe and Rannoch Moor, and enjoy guided nature walks through scenic locations like Blair Athol and Pitlochry.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the region’s fascinating history and culture, including the story of the MacDonald Clan.
With a maximum group size of 8 and an expert guide, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
The tour is moderately active, so be prepared for short walks.
The cost is $95.63 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Loch Ness Cruise, Glencoe Tour & 2 Highland Walks Review
Book now: Check availability
From Edinburgh: Loch Ness and the Highlands Tour With Cruise
Journey to the captivating Highlands and witness the mystique of Loch Ness on this comprehensive 12-hour tour departing from Edinburgh.
Explore Linlithgow Palace, Stirling Castle, and the stunning Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Discover the awe-inspiring Glencoe and embark on a Loch Ness cruise in search of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.
Marvel at the scenic beauty of the Cairngorms National Park and Blair Castle as you’re transported in an air-conditioned 16-seat Mercedes minicoach.
With an expert driver-guide providing insightful commentary, this tour offers excellent value, positive reviews, and the chance to create unforgettable memories in the Scottish Highlands.
Read our full review: From Edinburgh: Loch Ness and the Highlands Tour With Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Edinburgh offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to explore the stunning Highlands and islands. Whether you’d like to visit Loch Ness, cruise the Firth of Forth, or explore Inchcolm Island, there’s an excursion to suit your interests. With options for half-day and full-day tours, you can easily fit a boat adventure into your Edinburgh itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful region.