Islay Sea Adventures
Enjoy a wildlife boat trip with Islay Sea Adventures. Offering the chance to spot some rare species. Taking you along the southeast coast of the island to Islay’s Special Area of Conservation, only viewable from the sea.
Wildlife tours from Islay Sea Adventures
Islay is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides. Renowned for its plentiful beauty and wildlife it is the perfect place for you outdoor and animal lovers! What is more, there is a fabulous boat tour available on the island led by Islay Sea Adventures, a wildlife enthusiast and expert. They will whisk you around the island in either a RIB or hard boat, depending on your choice of boat tour and the weather conditions that day. Based in Port Ellen, the company runs daily trips, where possible, from April to October.
Book NowTantalising tours
Islay Sea Adventures offer a range of boat tours and cruises, starting at Port Ellen Marina. It is advisable to book your tour in advance and check ahead, as weather conditions can affect sailings. Additionally, bring warm clothes, even if the sun is shining as it can be much cooler when out on the sea.
Wildlife Tour
The wildlife tour takes you along the southeast coast, sharing some interesting history along the way. Furthermore, you will get to see three of the island’s distilleries from the water. Once in the conservation area, you will have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife. From red deer, an assortment of bird species, seals and even dolphins you will be sure to see some memorable and rare sights. Tours last around two and a half hours. They are suitable for children of all ages and you can even bring your beloved dog so long as he/she is well-behaved!
Fishing Tour
Islay Sea Adventures also offers fishing trips, giving you the chance to catch mackerel, skate, pollock, coley and cod. The tour includes 2 hours of fishing and all the equipment you’ll need. You’ll also receive expert guidance from experienced fishermen, who know all the best local fishing spots. These fishing tours require a minimum of 6 passengers in order to go ahead. They last around two and a half hours in total and are suitable for children ages 8 and above. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome.
Other tours
In addition to the wildlife and fishing tours, Islay Sea Adventures offer a range of wonderful themed boat trips, such as evening cruises, seafood experiences and trips to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool or the Mull of Oa. These trips vary in length, some do not allow dogs and may have age restrictions. You can check and book all current tours here. They also offer private charters, tailored just for you.
Islay wildlife holidays in Scotland
If you are staying with us at Islay Cottages, we highly recommend this tour to any of our guests. It is one of the top things to do here on Islay. Here you will take in the scenery as well as the wildlife, creating an unforgettable day with Islay Sea Adventures. If you are looking for somewhere to stay we offer beautiful self-catering accommodation in Kilchoman and Bowmore. To find out more about our accommodation or this wonderful wildlife tour call us on 07880 706 356 or email us here. So come along and have a wild time!
Book NowEverything was to a good standard, the beds were comfortable and the wi-fi connection was more than adequate for such a remote location (we didn’t use the TV/DVD). The living room and kitchen area is perfect for relaxing in the evenings, and you’ll be amazed at the quiet ! If your idea of the perfect holiday is getting out into the wilds and exploring miles of unspoilt beauty, this is the place for you. I am certain it is popular with walkers, but you can also do many exciting trips by car (which you’ll need anyway to get around !). Some of the roads do get a bit funky in places, and it’s largely single track with passing places, but you soon get used to this, and the courtesy between drivers is generally a joy to experience.
The Kilchoman cottages are near three absolutely stunning beaches, all within 4/5 miles: Machir Bay, Saligo Bay and Sanaigmore, it was impossible to choose between them, but we visited each one at least twice. Perhaps the most scenic beaches we’ve ever seen, with beautiful rock formations, white sand and totally unspoilt (and indeed generally deserted !)
There’s also the possibility to take a day trip over to the nearby island of Jura, the famous `paps’ (mountains) add a stunning back drop to so many places on Islay. It is a photographer’s dream. Life is simpler here, and in many ways it had not changed at all for me since 1972 ! A lifetime dream fulfilled to come back here, and I wasn’t disappointed ! We were very very lucky with the weather, which does help, and on a good day I wouldn’t hesitate to call it paradise.
Handy hints: Take plenty of basic provisions with you, but the Co-op in Bowmore is up to modern standards for most of your needs, we only needed a couple of trips there to restock in two weeks. If you’re big on nightlife and bustle, give it a miss…but if you love nature, beauty and fresh air….it can’t be beaten.
