Maid of the Forth - Sightseeing Cruise

South Queensferry

Up to 5% discount with promo code DAYSOUT

All aboard Maid of The Forth - Edinburgh’s Most Iconic River Adventure!

Just 8 miles from Edinburgh, step onto the Maid of the Forth for a cruise that blends world‑famous engineering with breathtaking Scottish scenery. It’s the perfect escape for anyone looking for something unforgettable to do near the capital.

The 3 Bridges Sightseeing Tour

  • Hop aboard the Maid and drift beneath the Queensferry Crossing, the Forth Road Bridge and the iconic Forth Bridge.
  • After that awe‑inspiring triple‑bridge moment, the boat sails toward the enchanting Inchcolm Island — and back again — with photo ops at every turn.

The Forth fun continues on Inchcolm Island

Those rocky green shores are impossible to resist — and the Inchcolm Island Landing Trip gives guests the chance to explore them up close.

What Awaits on Inchcolm

  • A 12th‑century abbey straight from a storybook
  • The bell tower, offering gorgeous views for those who love a climb
  • The Hermit’s Cell, where royalty once sheltered
  • 1.5 hours of free‑roaming to explore

Wildlife Wonders of Queensferry

The Forth is alive with wildlife — and keen eyes are often rewarded. Keep Watch For:

  • Grey seals lounging along the rocks
  • Puffins, especially during nesting season
  • Seabirds and marine life that thrive in these colder waters

With world‑class views, rich heritage, island adventures and unforgettable wildlife moments, the Maid of the Forth offers one of the most magical river experiences near Edinburgh.

Location

Hawes Pier

Newhalls Rd,
Queensferry,
South Queensferry,
EH30 9TB
Show on Google Maps

Find Us

By Car

There is a free car park along the seafront in South Queensferry, the postcode for your GPS is EH30 9TB. There is also additional free on-street parking all the way up Hawes Brae.  The town does get very busy in good weather and weekends/public holidays so we always advise that you allow plenty time to find a space and make your way to the pier.  There is additional free parking up at Forth Bridges View Point car park and at the Ferry Muir shopping centre near the Forth Road Bridge.

By Bus

From St Andrew Square (North Side)43 /x43 Lothian Country service  leaves every 20 mins weekdays Monday-Saturday  30 mins Sunday (Journey Time is approx 40 mins), get off the bus at the Police Station (bottom of hill) and it is a short 15 mins walk along the historic High Street of South Queensferry to the Hawes Pier. 

By Train

From Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny Station (South Queensferry), Trains every 30 mins or less and a journey time of only 20 mins. Then it is a short 10 min walk down the path from the station to the Hawes Pier under the Forth Rail Bridge.

Facilities
  • Toilets
  • Gift shop at the top of Hawes Pier
More Info
Where Is the Forth?

The River Forth is in central Scotland, 47 km (29 mi) long, which drains into the North Sea on the east coast of the country. Its drainage basin covers much of Stirlingshire in Scotland 's Central Belt.

What should I wear on my Maid of the forth trip?

Wrap up if you're coming in the winter!

Whether it’s a beanie hat, full-on flapper or hunting style hat, keeping your head warm is a must in the dead of winter. You’ll want both to be a tight fit. There are hats that cover the neck as well. 

A good pair of gloves is an essential winter clothing item. Many people suffer from cold hands in winter and dismiss it as poor circulation. The best way to combat this is to wear gloves. And on a boat, waterproof gloves are essential.

A well-insulated coat is essential. You will want a coat that offers watertight, breathable material, it keeps you warm without the discomfort of sweating. Lightweight and durable are features to look for. Fleece lining for warmth can really help keep you warm but allows air circulation to prevent perspiration.

Be sure to layer clothes to be able to effectively regulate body temperature! Adding or removing layers gives you options depending on the temperature. Thermal underwear is the ultimate starting point for layering.

Choose your adventure

Queensferry: 3 Bridges Sightseeing Cruise

Save 5% using promo code DAYSOUT & enjoy a spectacular 90-minute sightseeing cruise under all three Forth Bridges and towards Inchcolm Island!

See more
From
£18.00 £17.10
Book now

Inchcolm Island Landing Trip

Combine your sightseeing cruise trip with a visit to Inchcolm, you can go ashore on the Island for 1½ hours and get the next boat back to shore

See more
From
£21.00 £19.95
Book now

You might also like

Things to do

Family Days Out Food and Drink History, Art and Museums Seasonal Events & Activities Sport Tickets Theatre and Live Events Theme Parks & Thrills Things To Do Indoors Things To Do Outdoors Trips and Tours Zoos, Aquariums and Wildlife