Edinburgh offers much more than its historic streets and lively pubs. For those who love water-based adventures, the city is a surprisingly good launching point for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re dreaming of spotting the elusive Loch Ness monster, exploring a medieval island, or enjoying scenic highland views from the water, there’s a tour to match your curiosity. We especially like tours that combine comfort, expert guides, and unique experiences—like the full-day Loch Ness cruise that includes a boat ride and a scenic Highland drive, or the intimate Inchcolm Island trip where history meets the sea. These excursions provide a different perspective on Scotland’s landscapes and stories, making your visit richer and more memorable.
While Edinburgh itself is famed for its castles and museums, these boat adventures bring the rugged coastlines, glimmering lochs, and historic islands into focus. They’re perfect for travelers craving an active day outside city streets, families looking for a fun outing, or anyone intrigued by Scotland’s maritime lore. For those unsure which to choose, this guide covers options ranging from full-day highland explorations to short island visits, helping you find the best fit.
1. From Edinburgh: Loch Ness and The Highlands Tour with Cruise
At number one, this 12-hour tour offers a comprehensive trip into the Scottish Highlands, including a boat cruise on Loch Ness. What’s great about this experience is how it combines scenic drives, historical stops, and a boat ride all in one package. Starting from the Scottish Citylink Travel Centre, you’ll pass by landmarks like Stirling Castle and Linlithgow Palace, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. Highlights include Glencoe’s dramatic landscapes and Rannoch Moor’s sweeping views, all narrated by your friendly guide in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes minicoach.
The Loch Ness cruise is a definite highlight, giving you a chance to look for the legendary monster and enjoy serene waters amid towering mountains. Reviewers emphasize the engaging commentary and the variety of sights packed into this long day. Some mention the long drive but appreciate the entertaining storytelling and the small group size that makes the experience personal. For about $134 per person, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a full Highland immersion with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic, and historically rich tour suited for those who want to see the highlights of the Highlands and enjoy a boat cruise on Loch Ness.
2. Loch Ness Cruise, Scenic Walk, Whisky & Glencoe Tour – Edinburgh
Number two on our list is a 12-hour tour that emphasizes a relaxed, small-group experience. Costing around $89.72, this tour is ideal if you prefer a more curated itinerary with fewer travelers—there’s a limit of 8 guests. It starts in Edinburgh and takes you over the stunning Queensferry Crossing, then into the wilderness of the Cairngorms National Park.
You’ll walk through the Hermitage woodland, famous for waterfalls, and visit the Dalwhinnie Distillery to sample Scotch whisky. The tour continues through the highlands to Loch Ness, where you can explore the shoreline or join a boat cruise. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of outdoor walks, whisky tasting, and scenic driving, making it a varied day for those who want a little bit of everything. Reviewers praise guide Anthony for his storytelling and the “amazing” scenery, with many noting the inclusion of unique experiences like feeding Highland Cows.
This tour offers a great value for those who want an intimate, well-organized day that mixes nature, culture, and history. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the itinerary’s pacing is perfect for those who enjoy walking and shorter stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, small-group Highland tour with whisky, waterfalls, and Loch Ness, all wrapped into one day.
3. Boat trip and guided tour to Inchcolm Island
At number three, this 6-hour adventure focuses on exploring Inchcolm Island off the coast of Fife, famed for its 12th-century abbey. Starting from the Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue, you’ll travel by train and boat, guided by professionals who bring the island’s history alive. The highlight is the abbey itself—an atmospheric medieval site—and the scenic boat ride across the Firth of Forth.
The tour offers a more relaxed pace compared to Highland trips, perfect if you want a taste of Scotland’s maritime past without a long coach ride. Reviewers appreciate the guided tours that reveal the island’s secrets, as well as the chance to explore independently during free time. The included tickets make this a good value at just $40 per person.
This trip is ideal if you’re interested in history, island ecology, and a scenic boat ride, with the added charm of visiting a well-preserved medieval site. It’s a smaller, more intimate excursion that combines outdoor adventure with cultural discovery.
Bottom Line: A short but rich experience for history buffs and nature lovers, perfect for a half-day escape from Edinburgh.
4. Full Day Private Tour to Loch Ness With Boat Trip Included
Next, we have a private, fully customizable 12-hour adventure designed for those who want exclusivity and personal attention. For around $1,240, your group (up to 6 people) will enjoy a tailored Highland experience, starting with a scenic drive through Pitlochry and the Cairngorms.
The tour’s crown jewel is the Loch Ness boat trip, included in the price, allowing you to search for Nessie and soak in one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. The itinerary also includes a stop in Glencoe for breathtaking photos and a final visit to Loch Lubnaig. Your guide will share stories along the way, making this perfect for families or travelers who want flexibility.
The main advantage here is privacy, comfort, and the option to tweak the stops based on your interests. Reviewers note the driver/guide’s professionalism and the scenic stops that make the long day worthwhile. The tour is best suited for those who prefer tailored experiences or traveling in a small, private group.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or families seeking a personalized Highland tour with a private guide and a boat cruise of Loch Ness.
$1,239.84 per group (up to 6)
5. Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour & Royal Yacht Britannia
Number five is perfect for cruise passengers and those with limited time. This 8-hour shore excursion offers highlights of Edinburgh including the Royal Yacht Britannia and the historic Royal Mile. Starting from four different pick-up points, the tour provides a comprehensive city experience plus a visit to the Queen’s former floating palace.
The visit to Royal Yacht Britannia is a highlight, giving insight into royal life at sea. The city tour includes Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, with guided walks along the winding alleys of the Royal Mile. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the convenience of multiple drop-off points, though some note that tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.
This tour balances historical sites and royal splendor, making it ideal for those wanting a city-focused experience with a touch of royalty. It’s suited for cruise passengers or day-trippers wanting a structured, informative overview.
Bottom Line: A well-organized city and royal yacht visit, fitting for cruise travelers or those short on time but eager to see Edinburgh’s highlights.
6. Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh
This 12-hour group tour is the most popular, boasting over 5,700 reviews. For about $140, you’ll travel in a top-of-the-range Mercedes mini-coach with a small group limited to 16 people, making it more intimate than larger buses. The itinerary includes Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, and a boat cruise in Loch Ness.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized feel, with stops like Loch Lomond and Cairngorms for scenic photos, plus a visit to the Caledonian Canal. The Loch Ness cruise lasts around 50 minutes, giving you plenty of time to scan the waters for Nessie or just enjoy the tranquil scenery. Reviewers praise the driver Neal for his storytelling and the stops that add variety to the long day.
It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a detailed Scottish Highlands experience with a smaller group and more comfort. Price-wise, it offers good value considering the included cruise, scenic stops, and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for those who want a small-group, comfort-focused Highland tour with a boat cruise on Loch Ness.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour or Cruise in Edinburgh
Choosing among these options depends on your priorities. If you’re after a full Highland experience with multiple landmarks and a Loch Ness cruise, the From Edinburgh: Loch Ness and The Highlands Tour with Cruise is a solid pick. For a small, intimate tour with whisky and waterfalls, go for the Loch Ness Cruise, Scenic Walk, Whisky & Glencoe Tour. Want a private, personalized experience? The Full Day Private Tour to Loch Ness offers flexibility and exclusive attention.
If your cruise schedule is tight and you want an overview of Edinburgh plus a royal visit, the Edinburgh Shore Excursion is best. For a more relaxed island trip focusing on history and scenery, the Inchcolm Island tour is perfect.
Practical tips: book early, especially for popular Loch Ness tours, and consider your fitness level—some involve walking or outdoor stops. The best time for water tours is late spring to early autumn when the weather is more stable.
Final Thoughts
From comprehensive Highland adventures to intimate island visits, Edinburgh’s boat tours and cruises offer diverse ways to explore Scotland’s waters. The full-day Loch Ness tour with cruise and the small-group Highland trip stand out for their rich itineraries and reviews. Families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike find something to enjoy, but remember that early booking ensures better availability.
Whichever tour you choose, you’ll leave with a fresh perspective on Scotland’s landscapes, legends, and history. So take your pick, pack your camera, and get ready for some unforgettable water-based adventures—these are the experiences that will add a splash of magic to your trip.