Exploring the UK’s Stunning Wildlife by Boat
The UK is home to some of the most breath taking wildlife and coastal landscapes in Europe. One of the best ways to experience its incredible biodiversity is from the water, especially on boat trips that give you a closer look at the stunning variety of marine life and bird species. From puffins to seals, a wildlife boat trip offers a unique way to explore the natural beauty of places like Skomer Island, Shetland, Cornwall and Bempton Cliffs. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-do wildlife boat trips around the UK.
Skomer Island: A Puffin Paradise
If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing puffins up close, Skomer Island should be at the top of your list. Situated off the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales, this small island is famous for its puffin population, which returns every spring to breed. Boat trips to Skomer Island are the perfect way to get a close look at these iconic seabirds, known for their colorful beaks and charming antics.
- What to Expect: During the summer months, thousands of puffins fill the skies and the rocky cliffs of Skomer Island. Alongside puffins, you can spot other seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and the occasional seal swimming in the waters below.
- Best Time to Visit: The peak of puffin season is from late April to early August. However, boat trips are available year-round, with other wildlife such as dolphins and seals often spotted on the way to and from the island.
- Top Tip: Skomer Island has limited visitor numbers to help protect the fragile environment, so make sure to book your boat trip and island access in advance.
Shetland Seabird Tours: A Birdwatcher's Dream
The Shetland Islands, located to the north of mainland Scotland, are renowned for their rich seabird colonies. A boat trip around Shetland offers the opportunity to witness incredible birdlife, as well as the chance to spot marine mammals like orcas, seals, and even whales. Shetland Seabird Tours takes you on an unforgettable journey around these remote islands, offering up-close views of seabirds and a chance to explore some of the most scenic coastal areas in the UK.
- What to Expect: Expect to see large colonies of puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars, as well as the majestic gannets that dive into the sea in spectacular fashion. The cliffs of Shetland provide a perfect backdrop for these birdwatching opportunities.
- Best Time to Visit: The seabird colonies are most active during the summer months (May to August), but Shetland is a year-round destination for wildlife enthusiasts. In the spring and autumn, Shetland is also known for its migratory birds.
- Top Tip: Shetland is known for its unpredictable weather, so pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. It's also worth noting that boat tours often feature expert guides who share fascinating insights into the birds and marine life you encounter.
Bempton Cliffs: The Yorkshire Coast’s Birdwatching Hotspot
For those visiting the Yorkshire coast, Bempton Cliffs offers a fantastic opportunity to witness one of the UK’s most spectacular seabird colonies. Located near Bridlington, Bempton Cliffs is home to a huge number of nesting seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and razorbills. The cliffs themselves rise 400 feet above the sea, providing a stunning vantage point for watching these incredible creatures.
- What to Expect: Boat trips around Bempton Cliffs take you past towering limestone cliffs that are teeming with birdlife. Gannets dive into the waters below, while puffins nest in the nooks of the cliffs. You may also spot seals basking in the sun on the rocks.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time for birdwatching is between April and September, when the seabirds are nesting. However, Bempton Cliffs offers great views all year round, and it’s also a popular spot for winter birdwatching, especially for migratory species.
- Top Tip: While Bempton Cliffs can be explored from land, the boat trips provide a completely different perspective and the chance to get closer to the birds and the cliff edges. Make sure to check with local providers for available boat tours.
Cornwall: Seals, Dolphins, and the Rich Marine Life of the South West
Cornwall, located in the far southwest of England, is renowned for its rugged coastline, picturesque harbors, and rich marine life. Wildlife boat trips here offer the chance to explore hidden coves, discover marine wildlife, and enjoy spectacular views of the dramatic cliffs and beaches that Cornwall is famous for. You can find a variety of boat tours ranging from short trips to full-day adventures.
- What to Expect: Cornwall’s waters are home to a wide range of marine life. On boat trips, you might encounter Atlantic grey seals, playful dolphins, and occasionally basking sharks. Puffins can also be spotted on the offshore islands like the Isles of Scilly, while coastal cliffs offer great birdwatching opportunities.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time for wildlife boat trips in Cornwall is from spring to early autumn, especially during the summer months when marine life is most active. However, the winter months can also offer great opportunities to spot dolphins and seals.
- Top Tip: Take a trip to the Isles of Scilly if you want a more remote experience. These islands offer some of the best wildlife watching opportunities, as well as an abundance of flowers and scenic views. There are also specific boat tours that focus on marine wildlife, so be sure to choose the right one for your interests.
Why Choose a Wildlife Boat Trip?
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or someone looking for a unique adventure, wildlife boat trips offer an unmatched way to explore the coastlines of the UK. From the cliffs of Skomer Island to the seabird colonies of Shetland and Bempton, each trip provides an exciting opportunity to witness some of the most diverse and spectacular wildlife in Europe. And the best part? You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the experience—just bring your curiosity and a camera!
Klaus Nigge
A wildlife boat trip in the UK is a must-do experience for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors. Whether you’re sailing to the puffin-filled shores of Skomer Island, navigating the bird-rich waters around Shetland, or exploring the towering cliffs of Bempton, you’re sure to encounter breath taking wildlife and stunning scenery. So, hop on a boat, bring your binoculars, and set off on an unforgettable wildlife adventure.