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Sea safari - Isle Of May Boat Trips

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  • Isle Of May Boat Trips

Excellent experience..... Capt Roy came out of retirement for the day and he was awesome, funny... read more

sea safari anstruther

Had a fabulous trip on the Osprey rib round the Isle of May. Our skipper Steven was very friendly... read more

sea safari anstruther

We went for the sea safari on Saturday afternoon. It was a great trip and the highlight of our holiday in Fife. The boat trip itself was really fun and our guide was really knowledgeable about the Island and the bird life and very entertaining. The puffins were wonderful to see and the grey seals. We would definitely do this trip again.

Fantastic trip to the isle of May. Our trip was in the first week after reopening post-covid so worth mentioning that strict hygiene/face mask procedures were in place so we were kept safe. Highly enjoyable and informative - great wildlife and history.

We did the shorter option for the boat trip to the Isle of May with Osprey of Anstruther and it was the highlight of our whole trip to Scotland. We are not major bird-watchers, so a shorter tour was perfect for us to get a taste of the experience. We were blown away by the amazing wildlife on the island. We saw so many birds, a puffin and lots of seals! The boat ride was also VERY fun. The guide was knowledgable and easy to communicate with. I would recommend it to anyone visiting Scotland and spending some time in the fishing villages of Fife.

We visited the Isle of May with our two boys (aged 9 and 11) and were so lucky to have chosen the Osprey with Roy! It is absolutely worth the money as you get there much faster, in safe hands and the most informative guide. The boat trip itself is a thrilling g adventure which the children loved. The island itself is beautiful and there’s a lovely activity for kids that will get them walking from end to end in no time- stop at the Visitor’s Centre to pick up the leaflet. Definitely take a picnic or snacks and some warm clothes. It’s a beautiful place and must-do for bird lovers!

sea safari anstruther

What a wonderful day. Great trip - what I loved was the personal guide as we sailed all around the island - almost in touching distance of the wildlife. Clearly seals, puffins etc are not always spotted in the same places and our skipper slowed down when there was something to be spotted. 3 hours on the island to explore - what a wonderful day. I know it is personal taste but I loved the exclusivity of of this trip - the Osprey seats 12 whilst the other boats take up to 100. Great value for money - don't miss it. Book early. Thanks so much to the Isle of May Boat Trips.

sea safari anstruther

Thankyou very much for your kind words and I am glad that you had such a good day.

From the safe, fast and exhilarating rigid inflatable ‘Osprey’ boat trip from Anstruther out to the Isle of May, through a leisurely tour of the island with the professional and very helpful Scottish Natural Heritage staff on hand with information on the abundant wildlife, to the facilities and snacks (on the larger boat) available while there, this day trip is not to be missed. The company’s website provides useful information to help you prepare for the adventure, while also allowing you to book online. I would recommend booking well in advance particularly if you wasn’t to travel on the Osprey. The larger boat ‘May Princess’ would be the one to book yourself on if getting on and off a rigid inflatable is not your thing. The crew on both boats are hugely experienced, have an extensive knowledge of the Island and have a great sense of humour.

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Coastal Activities

Isle of may boat trips.

Middle Pier

Anstruther & Cellardyke

Home of the Osprey's of Anstruther. We offer exceptional wildlife and nature boat tours aiming to give the best experience possible for our trips to the Isle of May on and around the island. Our trips are enjoyed by people of all ages from children to our more experienced customers.

Also home to the Saltwind a 40ft Aquastar fisherman, the perfect setting for a fishing trip in the Firth of Forth or for a front row seat to witness the Gannet colony at the Bass Rock and Puffin colony at the Isle of May on one of our May/Bass Photography Sessions.

We offer four types of trips:

Isle our May Experience -  Our top recommended trip. A fantastic trip to the Isle of May, that allows you to land on the Isle where you can explore all it has to offer on foot. Includes 2 to 3 hours on the island (time is determined by the tide and the weather)

Sea Safari - A shorter voyage around the island to view Puffins, Seals, sea cliffs and coastal views from the boat. The skipper will give a commentary on the wildlife seen and points of interest taking time to stop for photographs and to answer questions.

May Bass Photography Sessions - A unique photography experience which involves a seaborne tour of both the Bass Rock and the Isle of May aboard the more intimate setting of the Saltwind. A trip no other Fife based boat has to offer

Fishing Trips - Ranging in time from 3-6 hours (depending on tides and customer preference). Our policy is you catch it, you keep it (if it's of size). With the likes of Mackerel, Pollock, Cod, Lythe and Ling to name a few of what we've caught so far! 

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sea safari anstruther

Keep it local

Self catering, premier stays.

Premier Stays is a holiday letting agency in the picturesque East Fife Coast.

2 Melville Terrace

2 Melville Terrace is a spacious, welcoming apartment forming the ground floor of a handsome double fronted Victorian end terrace.

James Haven

James Haven is a traditional three storey townhouse that has been lovingly refurbished to provide a comfortable stay.

Anstruther Pleasure Cruises

The May Princess sails from Anstruther to the beautiful Isle of May almost every day from 1st April to 30th September.

Bed & Breakfast

The spindrift guest house.

The Spindrift is an imposing Victorian residence built in 1870 for a Tea Clipper Captain, with many original internal features

East Neuk Haven

East Neuk Haven is a deceptively spacious first floor property forming part of a traditional stone building.

Pittenweem Properties

PIttenweem Properties is a family run business offering quality self catering properties throughout the East Neuk.

Restaurants & fine dining

Situated of the bank of The Dreel Burn merging with The Firth of Forth.

Cafes & coffee shops

Coast coffee.

A small family run full of fun coffee shop in the heart of anstruther fresh illy coffee and delicious paninis, toasted sandwiches

Art & Crafts

East neuk beach crafts.

Coastal beach art, sea glass jewellery, paintings & seaside gifts. Handmade from beach finds in the East Neuk of Fife, Scotland.

Kellie View, near Anstruther

Kellie View is a stylish and modern property offering comfort and relaxation for your stay.

Honeybee Cottage

Honeybee Cottage is a delightful, beautifully styled home near the sea in the quaint fishing village of Cellardyke.

Captain's Lookout

The Captain’s Lookout is a nautical-themed full townhouse over 3 levels with access to the beach.

May Isle View

May Isle View is located in West Anstruther and accommodates up to 4 guests. With fantastic views across to the Isle of May

Family Friendly

Little neuk storytelling centre.

Storytelling Centre and Children's Play Village

The Bank is a busy, family friendly inn that offers four star guest room, good food and most importantly good beer

Watersedge, Anstruther

Watersedge Apartment is a lovely one bedroom apartment located in the heart of Anstruther.

Guide Us Breaks

Guide Us Breaks offers self catering apartments (sleep up to 4) across the East Neuk. Dog friendly options and min 2 night stay

Catherine Cottage

Catherine Cottage is a traditional fisherman’s cottage in the beautiful coastal village of Cellardyke in the East Neuk.

Creel Cottage

Creel Cottage has been extensively refurbished to offer a stylish and comfortable home by the sea.

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If the boat does not sail due to adverse weather conditions etc we will refund your ticket payments in full - please check our full Terms & Conditions for online booking .

About the May Isle

May princess.

Seafari

From the start of the season till mid May, we will be using our catamaran, Celtic Adventurer, for most of our Corryvreckan wildlife tours.

sea safari anstruther

CORRYVRECKAN WILDLIFE TRIPS

A fantastic, 2 hours, general marine wildlife tour….

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BOOK THIS TOUR

sea safari anstruther

WHIRLPOOL SPECIAL

See the corryvreckan whirlpool at its best, during the big spring tides….

sea safari anstruther

CORRYVRECKAN WILDLIFE & WHALES TOUR

A 3 hour tour in our traditional boat to see thse magnificent animals….

sea safari anstruther

IONA & STAFFA & PUFFIN COLONY

Full day trip to iona with plenty of time ashore to enjoy the abbey…, private charter, our high speed boats are available for private charter from easdale, oban or from any point throughout the argyll…, welcome to seafari adventures.

Seafari Adventures offers exceptional wildlife and nature boat trips to see whales, porpoises and sea birds from our base at Easdale, Oban, Scotland. Experience the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home of the World’s Third Largest Whirlpool.

We are Oban’s original Visit Scotland 5 Star accredited marine wildlife tour company and specialise in offering a unique combination of high adventure and pure exhilaration with the excitement and sheer pleasure of close encounters with Scotland’s magnificent sealife and scenery.

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sea safari anstruther

NATURE AND WILDLIFE

Our tours are a well managed wildlife experience ensuring maximum enjoyment for customers whilst also recognising the importance of minimum disturbance to nature and wildlife..

sea safari anstruther

YOUR BOAT TOUR EXPERIENCE

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Anstruther Pleasure Cruises Ltd

Passenger boat trip to the Isle of May

Anstruther Pleasure Cruises operate the May Princess, which is the passenger boat that can carry 100 people to and from the May Island in the Firth of Forth from April to September. We are licensed by the MCA for that number of passengers and licensed by Scottish Natural Heritage who own and manage the Island to make the daily landing. The May Island is a National Nature Reserve and Bird sanctuary with the largest puffin colony found in the UK. Added to that historic lighthouses and spectacular scenery.

Road Directions

The May Princess is moored up in Anstruther harbour on the Middle pier just opposite the Scottish Fisheries Museum. Post code KY10 3AB.

Public Transport Directions

The Bus stops right alongside the boat. From Edinburgh the X60 or X58 limited stop heading for St Andrews is the best option. 

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Isle Of May Boat Trips

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ISLE OF MAY BOAT TRIPS (Anstruther) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Anstruther KY10 3EA

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  • 1 Understand
  • 3 Get around

Anstruther is a fishing village on the East Neuk (corner) of Fife on the east coast of Scotland . With a population of almost 4,000 (2020), it's the largest of a series of villages along the coast: east through Crail to the tip of Fife, and west through Pittenweem and St Monans to Earlsferry, all covered on this page. Further west the coast becomes industrial and is described as part of Leven , while the area to the north is described as part of St Andrews .

Understand [ edit ]

sea safari anstruther

Anstruther is first documented in 1225, when already its fishing was important enough to be the basis of a feud with the monks of Dryburgh Abbey. The Pope himself had to intervene, possibly the first involvement of a pope in a fish fight since the miracle of the loaves and the fishes. "Struther" comes from Gaelic sruthair , a stream, referring to the Dreel Burn which divided the community into Anstruther Easter (the larger) and Anstruther Wester. These grew together in modern times, but after 1936 the shoals of herring disappeared from traditional fishing grounds. Anstruther never had the industry of the more westerly villages near the coalfield, and was too far from the cities to become a commuter town, so its picturesque centre was never re-developed on a large scale. For most of a century it's been an attractive resort with small-scale fishing and leisure boating.

Get in [ edit ]

Stagecoach Bus X60 runs hourly from Edinburgh via Halbeath, Kirkcaldy and Leven to hug the coast through Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem and Anstruther then to St Andrews ; it doesn't reach Crail. Don't take X61, which from Leven heads inland to Dundee. From Edinburgh airport take the direct bus to Halbeath and change.

Stagecoach Bus 95 follows the coast south from St Andrews through Kingsbarns, Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, Elie, Upper Largo and Lower Largo to Leven. It runs hourly, daily.

The nearest railway station is Kirkcaldy , with regular trains between Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen, and round the Fife Loop from Dunfermline and Glenrothes. Transfer onto the X60 as above.

By car from Edinburgh city or airport follow M90 onto A92 then A915; at Upper Largo branch onto A917. By bike cross the Forth on the old road bridge then follow the coast road through Kirkcaldy.

Get around [ edit ]

Map

Anstruther can easily be explored on foot, and the bus gets you along the coast. You need wheels to explore inland.

See [ edit ]

  • Anstruther Harbour by the museum was built between 1866 and 1880. The 9-m concrete Chalmers Lighthouse is simply a harbour light. It's named for Thomas Chalmers (1780 – 1847), a founder of the Free Church of Scotland, who was born nearby.
  • 56.2257 -2.6831 2 Cellardyke was a separate fishing village, with its own harbour. It merged into Anstruther when both grew during the 19th century heyday of herring fishing. The fishing community suffered several grievous losses of boats but it was a storm of 1898 that wrecked their harbour. The remaining Cellardyke boats relocated to the new Anstruther harbour. Herring vanished from local waters in 1936 and traditional livelihoods ended.
  • 56.2139 -2.72753 3 Pittenweem is the next village west, two miles along the coast, and of all the East Neuk villages this retains the most active fishing fleet. An Augustinian Priory once stood here, with an outpost on the Isle of May. Its 15th-century gatehouse and "Great House" have been preserved in what is now the Church of Scotland. There was also a hermit's cave associated with the 7th-century St Fillan. This was used for unsavoury purposes into the 18th century then forgotten until 1900 when a horse ploughing the priory garden had the earth open beneath its hooves. The cave has been restored as a chapel and is entered from Cove Wynd, the alley between church and harbour. The key is held at Cocoa Tree Cafe on High St next to the church.
  • 56.206 -2.767 5 St Monans is a fishing village named for St Monan, supposedly killed in a Viking raid. East side is a late 18th-century windmill, which once powered the salt-panning industry; you can't go inside. The church by the water's edge at the west end of the village is from 1369.
  • 56.201 -2.778 6 Newark Castle is a dilapidated 15th-century turret, you just come for the coast walk and the view. It's no relation to the one in Newark-on-Trent where King Charles I surrendered, though one owner General Leslie did serve with the Royalists. The Edwardian shipping tycoon Sir William Burrell considered restoring the castle, blanched at the cost, and instead founded the Burrell Art Collection in Glasgow.
  • Ardross Castle half a mile west of Newark Castle is of similar age but even scrappier, as its masonry was plundered for building, and what's left is the rubble that no-one wanted.
  • Lady Janet's Tower on the headland east of Elie is a Folly, a picturesque look-out tower and bathing hut of 1770. It's said that Lady Janet Anstruther would have a bell rung to warn off townsfolk before she went skinny-dipping, but that was probably just wishful thinking by locals with tinnitus.
  • 56.19 -2.823 7 Elie and Earlsferry were combined in 1930. It was a medieval crossing point of the Forth, for instance by pilgrims to St Andrews, and in legend one earl that took the ferry was Macduff fleeing Macbeth. It remained a crossing point until a storm trashed the harbour in 1766. There's an attractive High Street, a church of 1639 with an octagonal tower, and a small lighthouse. Elie House, built 1697, is now private apartments.
  • West of Elie the coast is not unpleasant, but the view is of industrial towns further up the Forth. See Leven for Lundin Links and Largo.
  • 56.243 -2.648 8 Caiplie Caves are in a sandstone bluff two miles east of Anstruther. They were religious sites in Pictish and early Christian times and have ancient carvings. They suffer from vandalism and strewn trash.
  • 56.261 -2.626 9 Crail is the most easterly of the villages, picturesque and with a parish church from the 12th century. The dovecot is the only remnant of the Franciscan Friary, and the royal castle is long gone.
  • 56.279 -2.586 10 Fife Ness the tip of the East Neuk is a bit disappointing, as it's dotted with modern buildings.
  • 56.271 -2.699 11 Scotland's Secret Bunker , Troywood KY16 8QH ( On B940 ), ☏ +44 1333 310301 . Apr-Oct: daily 10AM-5PM . Hidden within a farmhouse is the entrance to a labyrinth, a blast-proof underground complex where government would re-locate if nuclear attack was likely, and carry on governing (what?) in the aftermath. It was built in 1954 and stood ready until 1993. Adult £13, conc £12, child £9 . ( updated Sep 2021 )
  • 56.3 -2.66 12 Kingbarns : see St Andrews for this and other points along the northeast coast of the Neuk. There's golf and a distillery. It's surprising that medieval kings trusted this exposed shore to ship their grain: you can even surf here.
  • 56.1858 -2.5549 13 Isle of May lies five miles off the Fife coast out in the Firth of Forth. Its ruined priory was abandoned in 1318. The lighthouse is a Gothic affair of 1816 by Stevenson. The nearby Low Light was added to create a pair to assist navigation but is no longer lit, and is used as a bird observatory. This is the main reason to visit, as the island is a National Nature Reserve owned by Scottish National Heritage. Seals can be seen all year round, whales can be spotted in late July and August. April-July there are thousands of puffins. Anstruther is the usual departure point for boat trips, see below; they sometimes also sail from North Berwick .

Do [ edit ]

sea safari anstruther

  • Anstruther Golf Course , Shore Rd, Anstruther KY10 3DZ , ☏ +44 1333 310956 . Founded in 1890, it is a 9-hole course on sandy soil. Black tees are 2545 yards, par 31. Visitor 18-hole round £30 . ( updated Sep 2021 )
  • Crail Golfing Society is at Fife Ness. The old course laid out by Tom Morris is the Balcomie, and the Craighead is the modern championship course. Visitor round in summer is £100, day ticket £135.
  • Golf House Club is in Elie, visitor round £100.
  • Charleton Golf Club is 4 miles north of Elie, within the grounds of plush Charleton House, a private dwelling. The clubhouse is under construction in 2021.
  • Anstruther Pleasure Cruises (+44 7957 585200) sail in "May Princess" from Anstruther middle pier. The boat takes 100 passengers and has a small snack bar and toilets. Online booking preferred (in mid-summer they often book out) but you can also buy or book at their kiosk on the pier.
  • Osprey Anstruther (+44 747 363 1671) sail from the middle pier in Ribs, which are fast but wet and bouncy and only take 12.
  • Crail Raceway is a hot-rod and go-kart racetrack along the lane east of Crail towards Fife Ness.
  • East Neuk Festival is a classical music festival, with events in Anstruther and elsewhere. It's held in June / July with the next on 28 June - 2 July 2023.
  • 56.18868 -2.858058 1 Elie Chainwalk . A series of chains anchored into the rock face that you can hold onto while walking along the coast. Certain physical ability and strength required. Pay attention to the tide schedule to not get trapped. ( updated May 2022 )

Buy [ edit ]

sea safari anstruther

  • Co-op Food is northwest edge of Anstruther on St Andrews Road, open daily 7AM-10PM.
  • The Pop In is an antiques and art shop at 1 Backgate, Pittenweem KY10 2LG, open daily 11AM-5PM.
  • Bowhouse Market is off A917 west side of St Monans. Dates vary but it's usually the second weekend of the month 11AM-4PM.
  • ENOS (East Neuk Open Studios) is a promotional event for local artists, you can visit the individual studios or their collected work at the Bowhouse near St Monans. The main event is the last two weekends in June, with a further show first weekend in Nov.

Eat [ edit ]

  • 56.22221 -2.697855 1 Anstruther Fish Bar , 42 Shore St, Anstruther KY10 3AQ , ☏ +44 1333 310518 , [email protected] . M-F 11:30AM-8:30PM, Sa Su 11:30AM-9PM . Takeaway and sit-in restaurant. Wide selection of fish served in batter with chips, and the usual alternatives like sausage or haggis. haddock supper £7.50, sit-in £10 . ( updated Sep 2021 )
  • The Cellar , 24 East Green, Anstruther KY10 3AA , ☏ +44 1333 310378 . W 6-9PM, Th-Su noon-9PM . Acclaimed restaurant, especially for its seafood. ( updated Jul 2021 )
  • Harbour Cafe in Elie is expected to re-open in summer 2022.
  • Haven Bar and Restaurant , 1 Shore Street, Cellardyke KY10 3BD , ☏ +44 1333 310574 . M 6-11PM, Tu W Su noon-11PM, Th-Sa noòn-1AM . Good seafood selection. ( updated Sep 2021 )
  • Larachmhor Tavern , 6 Mid Shore, Pittenweem KY10 2NJ , ☏ +44 1333 311888 . Sa-Th 10AM-midnight, F 10AM-1AM . Good seafood, dog-friendly pub. ( updated Sep 2021 )
  • The Dory , 15 East Shore, Pittenweem KY10 2NH , ☏ +44 1333 311222 . W Th 5-1M, F-Su noon-11PM . Seafood bistro by Pittenweem harbour. ( updated Aug 2022 )
  • 56.208 -2.832 2 Kinneuchar Inn , 9 Main St, Kilconquhar KY9 1LF , ☏ +44 1333 340377 . W-Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-6PM . This village pub, re-opened in 2019, serves great meals and also has rooms. ( updated Jul 2021 )
  • See St Andrews for the exceptional Peat Inn at Cupar, Fife.

Drink [ edit ]

sea safari anstruther

  • Anstruther has the most choice, with Dreel Tavern , Royal Hotel, Masonic Arms, Ship Tavern, Coastal Inn and The Haven (above).
  • Pittenweem has Larachmhor Tavern (above) and West End Bar .
  • Elie has Ship Inn (see Sleep) and Station Buffet Bar , where no train will ever interrupt your sup.
  • Crail and St Monans are too small for free-standing pubs.

Sleep [ edit ]

  • 56.2298 -2.6824 1 Silverdyke Caravan Park , Windmill Rd, Cellardyke, KY10 3FN . Mar - Oct . Check-in: 1PM - 5PM , check-out: 11:30AM . Caravan and motorhome site with 31 touring pitches, but no tents. There are also some static caravans on the site, but these are individually owned weekend retreats. from £25 per night . ( updated Apr 2019 )
  • 56.223 -2.70284 2 The Bank , 23-25 High Street, KY10 3DQ . Hotel with bar and restaurant (mains from £10). from £50 . ( updated Apr 2019 )
  • The other little villages along the coast all have accommodation. The standout is The Ship Inn in Elie.
  • 56.188 -2.816 3 The Ship Inn , The Toft, Elie KY9 1DT , ☏ +44 1333 330246 . Charming pub with rooms, views and great dining. B&B double £190 . ( updated Jul 2021 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of July 2021, the East Neuk has 4G from EE, but a poor signal from the other UK carriers. 5G has not yet reached this area.

Internet can be accessed at St Monans Library (Council-run), W Sa 10AM-noon, Th 2-6PM, and Pittenweem Community Library (volunteer-run), M W 2-5PM, F Sa 10AM-1PM.

Go next [ edit ]

  • North to St Andrews , the home of Golf , with a cathedral and university.
  • Further north across the Tay bridge is rejuvenated Dundee .
  • The coast west from Kirkcaldy is industrial and worth missing, so head inland to Falkland Palace , the Lomond Hills and Lochleven Castle .

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Undiscovered Scotland

Anstruther's many shops and busy attractive harbour make it the main commercial centre of the East Neuk of Fife. A century ago this picturesque port was so busy it was possible to walk from one side of the wide harbour to the other by stepping from one fishing boat to the next.

Then the North Sea herring shoals disappeared, taking with them much, but not all, of the fishing fleet. You can read the history of Anstruther in the chapters about East Anstruther and West Anstruther in D Hay Fleming's 1886 book: Guide to the East Neuk of Fife.

Anstruther's association with the fishing industry has not been forgotten. The town is home to the Scottish Fisheries Museum which tells the story of Scottish fishing from the earliest times to the present day. Housed in a fascinating complex of buildings beside the harbour, displays include a recreated cottage belonging to a fishing family as well as a chronological series of displays charting Scotland's fishing heritage. (Continues below image...)

From the harbour you can take sea angling trips or visit to the Isle of May aboard the May Princess. This is a nature reserve only one mile long located out in the mouth of the Firth of Forth. During the summer half of the year there is usually is one departure to the Isle daily though departure times vary depending on tides, and can be cancelled in adverse weather. Allow four or five hours for the round trip and remember to dress warmly.

Between April and July the Isle of May's sea cliffs are covered in sea birds and the island is also home to a colony of grey seals. Visible from the mainland is the lighthouse, erected on the Isle in 1816 by Robert Louis Stevenson's grandfather, as are the remains of Scotland's first lighthouse, built in 1636, which burnt coals as a beacon.

Inland there are the remains of St Aiden's Chapel, dedicated to a monk who was murdered on the island by Danes in 875. Also inland from Anstruther is a relic from a very different age. Scotland's Secret Bunker is a truly remarkable and fascinating visitor attraction, a vast underground complex that remained secret until 1993 and which would have served as the seat of the country's government in the event of a nuclear war. A few miles to the west of the Secret Bunker is Kellie Castle, operated by the National Trust for Scotland.

Anstruther itself is a fascinating town. Take a walk along the cobbled streets through a rabbit-warren of little alleyways and wynds and note the dates on the buildings. In the main streets many of the shops still display original signs and advertisements for companies long forgotten. There are restaurants serving local seafood specialities as well as the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar on Shore Street.

And if you find Anstruther busy, for an antidote make your way to the hidden treasure of Cellardyke, whose harbour is just half a mile to the east of Anstruther's but could be a world away.

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Sea View Indian Restaurant

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Located in beautiful Anstruther where your Culinary experience awaits: Fine Dining, Family and Flavour combined.

Bringing you the best authentic Indian flavours 

Welcome to Sea View Fine Dining,

Our highly experienced chef, with over 12 years of expertise, crafts authentic Indian cuisine that has earned accolades in numerous restaurants. 

Our commitment to quality shines through as we meticulously select the freshest ingredients, sourcing locally whenever possible, to uphold the highest standards in our dishes. 

Your dining experience means a lot to us, and the entire Sea View team works tirelessly to ensure your complete satisfaction. 

We value your feedback and welcome any comments or suggestions that can help us make your time with us even more enjoyable.

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Drop By for a Bite.

38 Cunzie Street, Anstruther,

Opening Hours

From 5pm to 11pm

Open seven days

sea safari anstruther

We are located in Anstruther, a charming village in the East Neuk of Fife, popular with day-trippers and holidaymakers.

Isle of May Landing trips

Landing trips to the Isle of May

April - September: Adult: £60 Child: £45 (age 7+ only)

*** Important update - Isle of May landings suspended ***

Due to the situation with avian flu affecting many seabird colonies across Scotland NatureScot took the decision on 27 June 2022 to close the Isle of May to visitors from 1 July 2022. You can read their media statement here .

We are sorry for the disappointment that this will cause for customers but hope you will appreciate that this decision has been taken to try to help protect the breeding seabirds at this time.

We are doing our best to contact everyone who was booked onto a landing trip by email (please also check your spam folders) and by phone. We are offering an alternative RIB experience to view all the seabird cliffs around the whole Isle of May island and taking in the seabird islands of Craigleith and the Bass Rock (see below for details).

We hope many customers will be happy to take up this alternative trip offer, but if not a full refund will be offered. ***

Alternative Isle of May Trip, from Friday 1 July 2022 Although we cannot land our passengers onto the Isle of May, this trip will allow you to enjoy the magnificant wildlife from the RIB which will sail around the island. The trips will last 2.5 hours and in addition to the Isle of May you will sail to Bass Rock and Craigleith as the high speed Rib trip will take in these islands en route. We hope to recommence landing sailings as soon as possible. Please keep and eye on our social media channels for updates.

Isle of May landings (currently suspended)

We usually offer two types of trips to the Isle of May: we provide both guided and non-guided options and a specialist photographic tour.

Onboard our 12-seat RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you will travel to the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, which is owned and managed by NatureScot .  Click HERE to see a video of our RIB trips . 

The Isle of May is the largest puffin colony on the east coast of Britain (see puffins from April to July) and a quarter of a million seabirds breed on the island.

Look out for different wildlife throughout the seasons -  click HERE for the wildlife calendar  with details of what you may see during your boat trip. You might also be lucky enough to see seals and even dolphins. 

These boat trips leave North Berwick Harbour and you will also travel past the Bass Rock (weather permitting), the world's largest colony of Northern gannets and BBC Countryfile Magazine's Nature Reserve of the Year 2014/15 & 2015/16.

Check out the Isle of May page on the  Scotland's National Nature Reserves  website and the Isle of May blog .

All Isle of May landing trips must be booked in advance.

For boat trips terms and conditions, click here. 

  • Trips run April to Autumn, subject to weather and sea conditions
  • Boats are fast. At present, due to COVID-19 restrictions - waterproofs are not provided - please bring your own.
  • 10% discount for members of the Seabird Centre
  • Not suitable for anyone with back ailments or who is pregnant
  • No food outlets on the island, but there are toilets. Visitors are permitted to take food but must bring all litter back to the mainland and dispose of it properly
  • Keep to the paths on the island at all times
  • Photographic trips are age 16+ only

Key things to note

  • Our boat trips are led by experienced guides. They will be on hand to answer any questions you may have on the island and will also guide around the island.
  • We are members of Wild Scotland and WiSE and follow the wildlife watching codes.
  • Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, Delta or Switch.
  • Please present your booking confirmation on arrival - arrive no later than 20 minutes prior to your departure.  
  • Binoculars are available to hire from our Boat Office.

We are pleased to provide our members with a 10% discount on boat trips - this is applicable to the named member(s), who must also be the passenger(s). Full ticket price will be applicable at the time of booking - when you collect your tickets from the Boat Trip Booking Office you will get your refund on presentation of a valid membership card. Alternatively, you can get the discount at the time of booking at the Boat Trip Booking Office. 

Terms and conditions

Please refer to the T&Cs for your trip – when you book, you will be asked to confirm that you have read these.  

If you are unable to book online, bookings can be made over the phone. 

For safety reasons, some of our boat trips have age and fitness level restrictions, so please check that you will be able to travel.

Safety is our priority and all boat trips are subject to weather, sea conditions and demand (minimum passenger numbers apply). Weather and sea conditions can change quickly and occasional cancellations at short-notice may be required. Trips are not guaranteed but full refunds or alternative dates and times are offered in the event of cancellation for the reasons above. 

We recommend advance booking: if your trip has to be cancelled or delayed we will try to contact you as soon as possible. Please provide a mobile number, at the time of booking, so we can contact you if required. The Scottish Seabird Centre and its partners cannot be held responsible for any of your costs resulting from cancellation, amendment or delay of your trip. 

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IMAGES

  1. Anstruther lifeboat celebrates 30 years of saving lives at sea

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  2. 3 Castle Street, Anstruther

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  3. Morning WOW!, courtesy of the historic harbor in Anstruther, Fife

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  4. Sea to Sky Highlights + Sea Safari Boat Tour

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  5. Our Fleet

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  6. Anstruther Lifeboat

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COMMENTS

  1. Isle of May Boat Trips

    The Isle of May is an absolute gem steeped in history with the remains of a 6th & 12th century monasteries and 3 light houses including the oldest in Scotland. Home to an incredible array of wildlife. With up to 250,000 seabirds including 46,000 breeding pairs of puffins (The best time for Puffins is from April to mid-August).

  2. All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

    Isle Of May Boat Trips. "Fantastic Experience" Fast rib trips to spectacular Isle of May, sailing from Anstruther. We offer landing trips which give 2 to 3 hours ashore or alternately shorter 2 hour trips which gives plenty of time to view the world renown wildlife around the island from the boat. See the puffins during the season, seals.

  3. Isle of May Boat Trips Fishing Trips

    Welcome aboard the Saltwind of Dart. Our trips operate on our 40ft Aquastar Fisherman The Saltwind of Dart'. A well renowned sea worthy traditional fishing boat, designed for fast, smooth and comfortable fishing trips. This is the Saltwind's first year operating out of Anstruther Harbour and what a great season it's been so far!

  4. Sea Safari

    Sea Safari; Share. Sea Safari. Wonderful seaborne wildlife boat tours of the Isle Of May. Fun for the whole family. ... Departs: Anstruther, St Andrews, East Neuk of Fife, The Kingdom of Fife. Bespoke exclusive Wildlife Boat trips & tours for you, your friends and family. Length: 1/2 day(s) Price from: On request.

  5. THE ISLE OF MAY BOAT TRIPS (Anstruther)

    I went on the Sea Safari around the Isle of May. ... Es gibt lt. Internet auch eine Buslinie von Edinburgh nach Anstruther (Linie X60 Endziel St. Andrews). Die Abfahrtszeiten findet man im Internet. Es gibt wohl auch Bootsfahrten von North Berwick aus. Wir hatten einen Mietwagen und sind von Anstruther aus übergesetzt.

  6. Anstruther Pleasure Cruises to the May Isle

    The May Princess sails from Anstruther to the beautiful Isle of May almost every day from 1 st April to 30 th September. Licensed by the Maritime Coastguard Agency to carry 100 passengers, she has been operating on this run for the last twenty years. The trip on the boat lasts from around 4.5 to 5 hours in total, which includes 2.5 to 3 hours ...

  7. Sea safari

    Osprey of Anstruther Day Tours: Sea safari - See 233 traveler reviews, 226 candid photos, and great deals for Anstruther, UK, at Tripadvisor.

  8. Fife business

    Sea Safari - A shorter voyage around the island to view Puffins, Seals, sea cliffs and coastal views from the boat. ... May Isle View is located in West Anstruther and accommodates up to 4 guests. With fantastic views across to the Isle of May . Anstruther & Cellardyke. Self catering Kellie View, near Anstruther.

  9. Anstruther Pleasure Cruises-Boat Day Tours

    Absolutely the BEST boat/island tour! Excellent! Aug 2023 • Friends. Captain Alex, and brothers Billy and Robert, gave us the most wonderful tour on the May Princess out to the Isle of May. Two couples joined 48 others on a comfortable and leisurely cruise—in perfect weather and seas—to the Isle of May.

  10. Anstruther Pleasure Cruises to the May Isle

    May Landing Trip - 14th April - Sailing 9.30am. £ 18.00 - £ 38.00. . Adult - £38. Child - £18 (3 - 15yrs) Concession - £33 (65+ / Student / 16-17yrs) Under 3yrs - Free. Trip to the Isle of May- a leisurely sail out to the island and then spend time exploring the beautiful wildlife and spectacular view. Mobile Booking Page.

  11. Seafari Adventures (Oban)

    Welcome to Seafari Adventures. Seafari Adventures offers exceptional wildlife and nature boat trips to see whales, porpoises and sea birds from our base at Easdale, Oban, Scotland. Experience the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home of the World's Third Largest Whirlpool. We are Oban's original Visit Scotland 5 Star accredited marine wildlife tour ...

  12. Anstruther Pleasure Cruises Ltd

    Anstruther Pleasure Cruises operate the May Princess, which is the passenger boat that can carry 100 people to and from the May Island in the Firth of Forth from April to September. We are licensed by the MCA for that number of passengers and licensed by Scottish Natural Heritage who own and manage the Island to make the daily landing. The May ...

  13. ISLE OF MAY BOAT TRIPS (Anstruther)

    About. "Fantastic Experience" Fast rib trips to spectacular Isle of May, sailing from Anstruther. We offer landing trips which give 2 to 3 hours ashore or alternately shorter 2 hour trips which gives plenty of time to view the world renown wildlife around the island from the boat. See the puffins during the season, seals.

  14. The Very Best Things To Do In Anstruther, Fife

    5. walk the Fife Coastal Path. Anstruther sits in the middle of Fife's long-distance coastal trail, 187km of gorgeous sea views and stunning beaches. Fortunately you don't need to walk the entire trail, and from Anstruther you can easily access some of the best parts of the Fife Coastal Path. Once here, walk east to the pretty harbour ...

  15. FORTH SEA SAFARIS

    You could be the first review for Forth Sea Safaris. Filter by rating. Search reviews. Search reviews. 1 review that is not currently recommended. Business website. forthseasafaris.co.uk. Phone number. 07752 156733. Get Directions. The Harbour Anstruther KY10 3EA United Kingdom. Suggest an edit. Near Me.

  16. Wildlife Boat Trips

    Seabird Catamaran Cruise. On board our custom-built, 55 seat catamaran, enjoy an hour-long cruise around the island of Craigleith and the Bass Rock, the world's largest colony of Northern gannets. Please note all children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult on these trips. Adult: £28 Children (4 to 16): £12 Concession (60+): £27 Age ...

  17. Anstruther

    Anstruther is a fishing village on the East Neuk ... The non-landing trips just circle beneath the cliffs, among sea birds and seals, so they will have you back ashore within 3 hours. Anstruther Pleasure Cruises (+44 7957 585200) sail in "May Princess" from Anstruther middle pier. The boat takes 100 passengers and has a small snack bar and toilets.

  18. Anstruther Feature Page on Undiscovered Scotland

    Anstruther itself is a fascinating town. Take a walk along the cobbled streets through a rabbit-warren of little alleyways and wynds and note the dates on the buildings. In the main streets many of the shops still display original signs and advertisements for companies long forgotten. There are restaurants serving local seafood specialities as ...

  19. Home

    Your dining experience means a lot to us, and the entire Sea View team works tirelessly to ensure your complete satisfaction. ... We are located in Anstruther, a charming village in the East Neuk of Fife, popular with day-trippers and holidaymakers. Contact Us. Phone: 01333 841229. Address:

  20. Scottish Seabird Centre

    At present, due to COVID-19 restrictions - waterproofs are not provided - please bring your own. 10% discount for members of the Seabird Centre. Not suitable for anyone with back ailments or who is pregnant. No food outlets on the island, but there are toilets. Visitors are permitted to take food but must bring all litter back to the mainland ...

  21. Sea Safari Cruises

    With over 30 years' liveaboard experience in Indonesian waters, our goal is to inspire travelers across the globe to experience Indonesia's maritime wonders. We've always believed in providing the best service possible. It's our goal for our guests to experience the beauty of Indonesia comfortably worry-free. Today, we are privileged to ...

  22. Sea View in Anstruther

    Sea View is tucked away right in the heart of the charming fishing village of Anstruther, with views over the historic harbour and Firth of Forth from the living room and bedrooms. This bright and spacious three-bedroom getaway is set over 3 levels, with the best choice of local, boutique shops, great restaurants, cafes, and pubs right on the ...