South Queensferry, with its stunning views of the Firth of Forth and iconic bridges, is a fantastic spot for sailing enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Unlike many seaside destinations, Queensferry offers a unique blend of historic sights and maritime fun — and the sailing tours here give you a close-up look at Scotland’s coastlines, islands, and bridges. Our favorite is the Half Day Sailing Trip because it combines charm, accessibility, and a chance to see the famous Inchcolm Island’s abbey. It’s perfect for families and first-timers who want a taste of the sea. But if you’re craving a full day on the water, the Full Day Sailing Trip promises a more immersive experience, including a lunch stop at Inchkeith Island and sailing under the Forth Rail Bridge. For those with a shore-side itinerary, the Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia offers a cultural complement to your maritime adventure.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three top sailing options in South Queensferry. Each offers its own flavor: a half-day trip perfect for a quick taste, a full-day for sailing aficionados, and a shore excursion combining land and sea with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh Castle. All are highly rated, and they showcase different aspects of what makes Queensferry a great sailing hub.
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1. Half Day Sailing Trip
At number one, the Half Day Sailing Trip offers an accessible and memorable way to experience the Firth of Forth. This tour sails the only catamaran on the East Coast of Scotland, providing stability and comfort, even in the unpredictable Scottish weather. You’ll cruise past Inchcolm Island, famous for its medieval abbey, and get close enough to appreciate its historic charm. The trip lasts around four hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling adventure, especially suited for families, couples, or anyone short on time but eager for a maritime experience.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to stay warm with included coffee and tea, and the intimate, small-group atmosphere. The vessel’s experienced crew, led by skipper Colin, ensures safety and fun, even under reefed sails if the wind picks up. The reviews highlight how confident and capable the crew are, with one guest mentioning, “The skipper and crew were capable and confident under reefed sails — even to allow me and another aspiring sailor to take the helm.” This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxing cruise with scenic views and a touch of history.
Bottom Line: This tour combines comfort, scenic sailing, and a historic backdrop in a half-day package that’s perfect for first-time sailors or visitors with limited time.
2. Full Day Sailing Trip
Second on our list is the Full Day Sailing Trip, which provides a richer exploration of the Forth’s waterways. Over approximately eight hours, you’ll enjoy sailing under the Forth Rail Bridge, passing the inner islands, and stopping at Inchcolm Island for a delicious lunch on Inchkeith Island. This trip appeals to those who want more than a quick ride — it’s ideal for water lovers, seasoned sailors, or curious travelers eager to learn.
The tour is flexible enough for both beginners and experienced sailors, with opportunities to help sail or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The crew, led by Colin and Simon, are praised for their personable approach, with one guest saying, “I loved being allowed to sail the boat for a few minutes.” The highlight is the combination of sailing and sightseeing, with unbeatable views of Edinburgh’s skyline and the iconic bridges.
The itinerary includes sailing under the Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a stop at Inchcolm Island. The lunch break on Inchkeith Island offers a chance for a picnic or a quick explore, adding a bit of adventure to the day. Given the longer duration and detailed itinerary, this trip is best suited for those eager to enjoy Scotland’s maritime landscape.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a full-on sailing experience with sightseeing and a leisurely lunch, this trip delivers a comprehensive, fun-filled day on the water.
3. Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia
The third option takes a different approach, combining a city tour with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Perfect if you’re arriving by cruise and want a taste of Edinburgh’s culture and history, this full-day excursion lasts around 7.5 hours. It’s not a sailing trip per se but offers a maritime-themed experience, including the chance to explore the former royal yacht used by the British royal family.
You’ll visit Leith, where the yacht is berthed, and then tour Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. While the tour doesn’t include sailing, it’s an excellent way to combine land-based sightseeing with maritime history. The guide, with their local knowledge, enhances the experience, and the tour is especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Edinburgh and its royal connections.
Reviews note the convenience of pickup from the cruise port and the fascination of visiting the yacht, with one guest remarking, “The Royal Yacht Britannia was fascinating and well worth a visit.” This experience suits travelers who want a cultural highlight alongside a brief maritime connection.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers or those who prefer a mix of sightseeing and history, this tour provides a well-rounded day in Edinburgh.
$87.18 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, think about your interests, time available, and budget. If you’re short on time or new to sailing, the Half Day Sailing Trip offers an easy and scenic introduction. For true water enthusiasts eager to spend a whole day exploring the Forth, the Full Day Sailing Trip is unbeatable. If your focus is on Edinburgh’s culture and history with a dash of maritime flavor, the Royal Yacht Britannia tour is a smart choice.
Consider your fitness level and how involved you want to be — the full-day trip allows you to help sail if you’re feeling adventurous, while the half-day is more relaxed. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
South Queensferry offers a variety of sailing experiences that suit different travelers. For a quick taste of sailing with scenic views and historic sites, the Half Day Sailing Trip is hard to beat. If you’re looking to really get out on the water and explore the islands, the Full Day Sailing Trip provides a full-immersion experience. And if you prefer combining sightseeing with a maritime touch, the Edinburgh Shore Excursion offers a broader cultural experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures. With such a range of options, there’s a perfect sailing trip waiting for every type of traveler eager to experience Scotland’s stunning coast from the deck of a boat.