South Queensferry is one of those charming spots where history, stunning scenery, and maritime adventure come together effortlessly. Its location along the Firth of Forth makes it an ideal base for boat trips that showcase iconic bridges, wildlife, and even a medieval island abbey. We’re especially fans of the Stunning 90-Minute Firth of Forth Sightseeing Cruise Adventure, which offers breathtaking views from the top deck and the chance to spot seals and puffins in season. If boat trips aren’t your thing, the Private South Queensferry Town Walking Tour provides a personalized glimpse into the town’s past, from its wartime significance to local legends. Whether you’re into maritime adventures or history walks, South Queensferry offers tours that turn a scenic village into a memorable experience.
The variety of tours on this list covers everything from quick sightseeing cruises to full-day Scottish Highland explorations and exclusive private walks. Each offers something unique—be it panoramic views, wildlife sightings, or insider stories—designed to suit different interests and schedules. Check out the details below to find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Stunning 90-Minute Firth of Forth Sightseeing Cruise Adventure
At number one, this top-rated cruise has a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 195 reviews and costs about $24.79 per person. It’s a great choice if you want a short, scenic, and informative experience that highlights some of the most impressive engineering in Scotland—the Forth Bridge. Traveling over the Forth Bridge is impressive, but cruising underneath it provides a completely different perspective, allowing you to appreciate its scale and design up close. The boat’s top deck ensures outstanding views of Edinburgh, Fife, and beyond, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to visit Inchcolm Island, home to a well-preserved abbey and scenic coastlines. You can opt to disembark and explore, making this cruise more than just a water ride. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting seals and puffins, especially in season. The crew shares regional Scottish history, adding depth to the experience. Customers praise the cruise’s comfort, informative commentary, and stunning views—”Really enjoyed our boat ride. The bridges are amazing, and we saw lots of seals,” says one reviewer.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded, affordable cruise with wildlife spotting and a historic island stop, this is your pick.
2. Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise
This popular cruise has a 4.5/5 rating from 419 reviews and costs $27.45. It offers a slightly longer journey—around 1 hour 30 minutes—and focuses on showcasing the famous Three Bridges from a vantage point only the water can provide. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy scenic views of Edinburgh’s skyline, the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge, and Inchcolm Island.
The cruise includes wildlife sightings and storytelling about the local area, with guests noting the chance to see seals and puffins. Several reviews highlight the crew’s narration and the spectacular scenery, mentioning how the “bay and bridges are a spectacular sight,” and “seals were seen on the trip.” The hike to the harbor involves a steep climb from Dalmeny station, but many agree it’s well worth it to experience the marine wildlife and historic bridges from this perspective.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for those who want a comfortable, scenic escape with a focus on bridges and wildlife, all with flexible departure times.
3. Half Day Sailing Trip
The Half Day Sailing Trip is rated 5.0/5 from 11 reviews and costs about $135.72. It offers an exciting sailing experience on the only catamaran on Scotland’s East Coast. The tour includes sailing past Inchcolm Island, with coffee and tea included to keep you warm and alert on deck. You’ll get close-up views of Inchcolm Abbey and natural scenery that many visitors miss.
This tour is perfect if you’re after an active, maritime experience rather than just sightseeing. Guests mention how capable and confident the crew are, making it suitable for all ages. It’s especially good for those who want to combine sightseeing with sailing, enjoying the sea breeze and scenic coastlines. The small-group feeling means you’ll get personal attention and plenty of time to ask questions about the boats, the wildlife, or the history.
Bottom line: For a half-day adventure blending sailing and sightseeing, this tour offers a memorable, hands-on experience at a reasonable price point.
4. Full Day Sailing Trip
This full-day sailing adventure scores a perfect 5.0/5 from 10 reviews and costs around $241.05. It’s designed for those who want to spend an entire day on the water, with a focus on relaxing sailing and sightseeing. Sails take you under the famous Forth Rail Bridge and past inner islands, with a planned stop at Inchcolm Island for exploration.
The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced sailors. The crew is described as personable, with many guests praising the chance to sail the boat themselves. The itinerary includes a tasty lunch at Inchkeith Island, providing a pause amid the scenic scenery. The longer duration allows you to take in the expansive views of Edinburgh’s skyline and the wild coastal landscapes.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an immersive, full-day sailing experience with opportunities to learn and relax, this tour offers excellent value.
5. Blackness Castle Cruise
Rated 4.5/5 from 35 reviews at $27.43, this 1 hour 30-minute cruise takes you underneath the iconic Three Bridges and past Blackness Castle. It’s ideal for history and architecture buffs wanting detailed views of the castle known as the ship that never sails.
The cruise offers the chance to learn about local history, including the links to Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Kidnapped’, and enjoy views of Limekilns village. Marine wildlife like seabirds, porpoises, and seals often appear, making the journey lively and engaging. Several reviewers comment on the magnificent castle and the excellent photograph opportunities.
If you’re short on time but want a rich narrative, wildlife sightings, and scenic views, this cruise hits the mark.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers and photographers wanting a compact yet detailed water tour.
6. Private South Queensferry Town Walking Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, for about $172.03 per group (up to 6), this personalized 1.5-hour walk is a fantastic way to uncover South Queensferry’s stories. Your local guide will bring the town to life, sharing tales of its importance during WWI, local traditions like The Burryman Day, and sights like the Jubilee Clock Tower.
Guests have praised how the guide differentiates from generic tours by focusing on hidden stories, like the Black Castle and The Hawes Inn, once visited by Robert Louis Stevenson. The tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, detailed introduction to this picturesque port town.
Bottom line: For a private, flexible experience that dives into South Queensferry’s past, this walk offers personalized storytelling.
7. Scottish Highland Day Tour from Edinburgh
Rating 5.0/5 from 2 reviews and costing about $1,266.17 per group, this full-day private tour takes you into the Scottish Highlands. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a private, comprehensive experience without the hassle of driving.
Highlights include feeding Highland cattle at Kilmahog Woollen Mill, capturing photos at Glencoe, and stopping at Pitlochry. The tour also visits the Spean Bridge Woollen Mill and the Commando Monument. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to customize what you see, making it ideal for those looking for a tailored adventure. Guests appreciate the comfortable transportation and the chance to shop for souvenirs along the way.
Bottom line: If you crave a private day trip into Scotland’s wild landscapes, this tour provides a customized, scenic experience.
8. Edinburgh Shore Excursion with a Local Guide
Rated 4.0/5 from 7 reviews at $414.06 per person, this 8-hour private tour lets you tailor your Edinburgh experience from the dock. It’s perfect if you want to maximize limited time and see specific sights like Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, and Mary King’s Close.
Your guide crafts the route based on your preferences, giving you personalized insights into the city’s culture and history. Guests praise the flexibility and attention to detail, especially the convenience of pick-up and drop-off at Queensferry port.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a customized, private city tour that fits their specific interests and schedule.
9. Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia
Rating 3.5/5 from 30 reviews and costing about $87.18, this 7.5-hour tour offers a full overview of Edinburgh and the Royal Yacht. It includes a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith and highlights Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile.
Designed for cruise visitors, it allows time to explore independently after guided visits. Reviewers mention the convenience of pickup and the chance to see two major attractions comfortably. However, some note that the main sites are on your own, so it’s best if you’re comfortable exploring semi-independently.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a guided overview combined with time to explore famous sites at their own pace.
$87.18 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When choosing among these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a budget-friendly, scenic water experience, the Firth of Forth cruise or the Blackness Castle cruise are excellent. If you prefer a personalized visit, the private walking tour or the Edinburgh private shore excursion will give you tailored insights. For sailing and hands-on maritime fun, the half- and full-day sailing trips are top picks. Lastly, history lovers should look at the Blackness Castle cruise, which combines history with wildlife.
Booking early is especially wise if you’re traveling during peak season or planning a cruise-based tour, as these experiences tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
South Queensferry offers a rich variety of tours that suit different travel styles—from scenic cruises to personalized walks and full-day Highland adventures. If you’re a fan of beautiful bridges and wildlife, the Stunning Firth of Forth cruise is a must. For those wanting a deep dive into local history, the private walking tour is perfect. And if you’re after a full Scotland experience, the private Highland trip delivers.
Each tour has its own charm and appeal, so think about what kind of experience will make your trip memorable. Remember, booking in advance can help you secure the best spots, especially for popular options like the Full Day Sailing Trip or the Edinburgh Shore Excursion. Now, get planning and enjoy everything South Queensferry has to offer!