Explorer Plus - Forth Boat Tours

Forth Boat Tours

Available until 9 September 2024

Book The Explorer Plus ticket for the best value sightseeing tour in Edinburgh

Set sail and hop on board a Bright Bus in the heart of Edinburgh before boarding Forth Boat Tours vessels in a brand-new tour for 2024! 

Take in Edinburgh's breathtaking skyline from the comfort of your seat on the double decker bus as you speed towards Queensferry. Once there, you'll hop off the bus and hop on a boat for an unrivalled cruise towards Inchcolm Island, visiting the famous Forth Bridges along the way!

Now, you can enjoy more for less! Enjoy the best value ticket when you book the Explorer Pass, which includes a return trip on the Boat & Bridges Tour and unlimited travel on all other tours & Airport Express!

What will I see with my Explorer Plus ticket?

  • Board your Bright Bus in the heart of the historical city of Edinburgh 
  • See the old town, Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth and the Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • Hop on board one of Forth Boat Tours and head for the Firth of Forth
  • Take in the unrivalled views of the spectacular Three Bridges 
  • Cruise past the Royal Botanic Garden, Newhaven Harbour, Leith and The Majestic Royal Yacht Britannia!
  • Experience beautiful panoramic views of Edinburgh's skyline
  • See Inchcolm Island, which once housed 500+ soldiers during the world wars as part of the 'Fortress Firth'
  • Spot the local marine wildlife - from seals to puffins and more!

PLUS: With the best value ticket, you can enjoy a free Airport Transfer Service from Edinburgh Airport.

What does my Explorer Plus ticket include?

  • Boats & Bridges Tour, Bright Bus City Tour, The Britannia Tour & Airport transfer
  • 3 hours and 30 minutes of sightseeing with guided commentary
  • Access to Bright Bus and Forth Boat Tours vehicles and vessels
  • Onboard cafe-bar with a selection of hot & cold drinks and light snacks
  • Choose a spot inside or get settled on the outside decks for breathtaking views
  • PLUS: Enjoy two great tours with just one ticket!

Bright Bus Boat & Bridges Tour schedule:

Departure times are from Edinburgh, Waterloo Place to Queensferry for connection to Forth Boat Tours. Return pick up is located at St Andrews Square and Princes Street/Castle Street shortly afterwards.

  • Departs: 10:00am Returns: 13:30
  • Departs: 11:50am Returns: 15:30
  • Departs: 13:50 Returns: 17:25

Book the Explorer Plus ticket and enjoy the best value sightseeing cruise with Forth Boat Tours!

Location

Hawes Pier

Hawes Pier,
South Queensferry,
EH30 9TB
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How to find us

The cruises depart from Hawes Pier, located in South Queensferry, near Edinburgh. There is only limited parking available near the pier but there are several options for parking in the nearby area.

By car

Hawes Pier Car Park:

There is a small car park located next to Hawes Pier, which is operated by Edinburgh Council. The car park has a limited number of spaces and can fill up quickly.

South Queensferry Town Centre Car Parks:

There are several pay and display car parks located in South Queensferry town centre. Most are only a short walk from Hawes Pier. These include the Shore Road Car Park and the Rosebery Hall Car Park, which is located on Rosebery Avenue.

On-Street Parking:

There is limited on-street parking available near Hawes Pier and in South Queensferry town centre. However, parking restrictions limits may apply, so be sure to check the signs before you park.

Facilities
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Pet-friendly
  • Food and drink
  • Toilets
More Info
Are Forth Boat Tours wheelchair accessible?

Forth Boat Tours are not specifically designed for disabled access - however, a lot of wheelchair users and people with limited mobility do join the vessel for a 90 minute sightseeing tour. 

There is also a wheelchair ramp that can be used at certain tide heights. 

Are Forth Boat Tours pet friendly?

Yes, Forth Boat Tours are extremely pet-friendly. 

A charge of £1 per pet applies. 

Is there food and drink available on board Forth Boat Tours?

Yes, there is food and drink available on Forth Boat Tours vessels.

  • You can enjoy a selection of hot and cold drinks
  • Light snacks are available
  • You can also try a wee dram and other spirits from the onboard bar - but please, do not feed the crew!

More things to do nearby

Things to do

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