Inchcolm Island Landing Trip

at Maid of the Forth - Sightseeing Cruise
South Queensferry Available until Sun 31 May

Up to 5% discount with promo code DAYSOUT

Looking to dive into Scotland’s history with a splash of adventure? Maid of the Forth’s 3‑hour Inchcolm Landing Trip is an absolute must

This experience combines their classic 90‑minute sightseeing cruise with a 90‑minute island stop, giving guests time to explore Inchcolm entirely at their own pace!

Highlights on your trip:

Once ashore the Island, visitors find themselves surrounded by 12th‑century heritage and stories carved into every stone. Must‑See Spots on Inchcolm:

  • Inchcolm Abbey – a remarkably preserved medieval gem
  • Bell Tower – climb the winding staircase for jaw‑dropping panoramic views
  • Hermit’s Cell – where King Alexander once sheltered after a shipwreck

Edinburgh’s wartime secrets are hidden in plain sight. Inchcolm isn’t just ancient — it’s armed with history from more recent times too. The island is dotted with wartime defences, all waiting to be explored:

  • Old lookout posts
  • Former searchlight stations
  • Artillery gun placements
  • A preserved ammunition tunnel running beneath the island

These relics create a fascinating contrast between medieval peace and 20th‑century resilience.

What's included?

  • 3‑hour round trip aboard the Maid of the Forth
  • 90‑minute guided‑by-you island exploration
  • Stunning views of the Three Bridges, Fife Coastline and Edinburgh skyline
  • Easy island access and plenty of time to roam, wander and discover
  • Full Bar
  • Toilets
  • Outdoor Viewing Deck
  • Indoor Viewing Deck
  • Dogs welcome

With history, scenery and freedom to explore, the Inchcolm Island Landing Trip is one of Edinburgh’s most memorable boat adventures. All that’s left is to hop aboard and let the island’s stories unfold.

Location

Hawes Pier

Newhalls Rd,
Queensferry,
South Queensferry,
EH30 9TB
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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
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 l

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