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Boat Trips: What you need to know!

 

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What will I be doing?

 

Explore the rugged coastline and rich waters around the Hebrides with award winning Sea Life Surveys, searching for whales, sharks, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds and much more.

 

Come on a voyage of discovery as you search for Scotland’s most elusive creatures of the deep. Exploring the West Coast waters for 25 years, Sea Life Surveys, a family run business, lets the wildlife and weather shape your journey, giving you a unique opportunity to see some of the ocean’s largest and most mysterious inhabitants in their natural environment.

 

Don’t miss this chance of a lifetime.

 

What will I see?

 

Our climate is changing and these changes seem to be affecting our marine life, in particular minke whales. Over the past two years, sightings of minke whales have dropped, but we see more dolphins and basking sharks, as well as first time sightings of fin whales. Bird numbers and species have changed too.

 

Who knows what next season will bring – come and help us find out!

 

How will I know what to look for?

 

Internationally qualified and experienced wildlife guides are on every trip, guiding you through the different species you are likely to encounter, showing you how to identify them and where to look. They will be on hand to answer any questions you might have, talk about the history, geology and wildlife, while keeping you topped up with tea and coffee during your adventure!

 

Whether you are a family seeking a wildlife adventure or a seasoned ‘salty sea dog’, Sea Life Surveys offers a once in a lifetime experience.

 

How will I be helping Scotland’s marine life?

 

Our trips are unique. By joining a Sea Life Surveys cruise you will be contributing to invaluable marine research, helping scientists and conservationists understand our changing oceans. Climate change appears to be affecting our marine populations, especially the whales, and we are monitoring this closely by behavioural studies, hydrophone work and photo-identification. Exciting times.

 

We have strong environmental links with environmental bodies such as the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust and the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Every person on each trip can contribute to our greater knowledge and conservation of whales, dolphins, porpoises, sharks in Scotland and the environment that supports them.

 

What about the boats?

 

Sea Life Surveys boats are all inspected regularly by the Maritime Coastguard Agency. All skippers are fully licensed and are WiSe Accredited (Wildlife Safe). 25 years of experience operating marine tours in the area ensures we have the right vessel and equipment to help guarantee your safety and comfort on every tour.

 

Where is Sea Life Surveys?

 

Our whale watching cruises depart from Ledaig pontoon, Tobermory, Isle of Mull. There are regular ferry sailings from the mainland to Mull from Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan operated by Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries.

 

All cruises have been arranged so that mainland visitors can catch the first ferry to Mull, join a cruise and return by ferry in time for tea. The only exception being the Whalewatch Explorer on Sundays. These day return bookings obtained through Macbraynes booking office only. The price includes ferry crossings and transport to and from Tobermory. This only applies from May 10th till September 13th.

 

What do I need?

 

Due to limited numbers, all boat trips require prior booking. Don’t miss your place! Warm, waterproof clothing is essential for all cruises.

 

Passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure. During our longer cruises we recommend sturdy footwear and a packed lunch for island landings. Light refreshments are served on all cruises. Binoculars and sun protection cream are important.

 

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