Board a small RIB from the picture-perfect harbour and glide beneath the towering volcanic sea stacks, through hidden caves and past colonies of puffins, razorbills and Atlantic grey seals — an intimate encounter with wild Scotland from the water.
What to expect
Departing St Abbs Harbour, your skipper navigates north along the reserve's coastline, cutting the engine to drift silently past nesting guillemots on near-vertical basalt columns. Grey seals loll on submerged ledges, barely acknowledging your presence. The RIB slips into echoing sea caves where the swell surges and the walls glow green with algae. Above, the lighthouse crowns the headland — a view that appears on no postcard and lives long in the memory. The full circuit takes approximately 75 minutes.
Good to know
Boats depart from St Abbs Harbour — no transfer needed from the tender point. Tours run May–September weather permitting; waterproofs and lifejackets provided. Book directly in advance as capacity is very small. A private charter guarantees exclusivity and a bespoke route. Allow 90 minutes including boarding.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at St. Abbs — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in St. Abbs
- St Abb's Head: Guided Clifftop Walk & Seabird Colony
- St Abbs Marine Reserve: Private Guided Snorkel or Dive
- Coastal Kingdoms: Lindisfarne & Bamburgh Castle Private Day Tour
- Coldingham Priory & Gunsgreen House: Scottish Borders History Walk
- Pettico Wick & Coastal Wildflower Walk: Scenic Photography Hike