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Bass Rock in North Berwick
Bass Rock is an iconic island located off the beach of North Berwick. Visible from most coastal towns, locals and visitors alike enjoy boat trips to view the birds and stunning rock formation.
Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher or just curious about the dramatic rock you can see from the beach, a boat trip to Bass Rock is a highlight of any North Berwick visit.
A journey to Bass Rock: seabirds, spray, and spectacular views
During our recent trip to North Berwick, we booked a Bass Rock boat tour. It was an unforgettable experience that left all of us grinning (and maybe just a little windblown).
If you’re visiting North Berwick, Bass Rock is one sight you simply can’t miss.
Rising stark and white from the Firth of Forth, this dramatic volcanic island is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of northern gannets.
And the best way to experience its scale, sounds, and sheer wildness?
From the deck of a boat!
Getting to The Bass Rocky by boat
Tours run from North Berwick Harbour, just a short walk from the High Street and beach.
There are a couple of different styles of trips, from fast RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) to more relaxed wildlife cruises.
We opted for a slower-paced Seabird Catamaran Cruise with the Scottish Seabird Centre, which gave us time to take in the views and learn about the area’s rich birdlife and history.
The Captain was very experienced, and the Guide was very informative, and particularly welcoming.
It’s best to book in advance, especially during the summer months, when visitors flock to East Lothian.
Tours are weather-dependent, so it’s also worth keeping an eye on forecasts and being flexible with dates if you can.
I purchased anti sea-sickness tablets from the pharmacy, for both the adults and the children, however the waters were relatively calm on our trip.
The experience: Close encounters of the feathery kind
Setting out from the harbour, the views are beautiful straight away, with North Berwick Law rising behind the town, the beaches stretching east and west, and the distinctive shapes of Craigleith and Lamb islands nearby.
The boat made the first stop at Craigleith, and then moved to Bass Rock.
As you approach Bass Rock, it becomes clear just how unique it is.
At a distance, the rock appears white, almost chalky, but get closer, and you realise it’s alive.
Tens of thousands of gannets nest here each summer, and the air is filled with their calls, their gliding wings, and dramatic diving into the sea below.
Our guide was excellent, sharing stories about the gannets’ behaviour, the geology of the rock, and its long lighthouse history, showing us the newer helicopter landing pad and the caves through the rock.
Visitors from dedicated boat trips are allowed to land on Bass Rock.
Things to know before you visit Bass Rock
Wear layers: It’s often colder out at sea, even on sunny days. Much to the amusement of my family, I took waterproof jackets, just in case of sea spray or passing rain.
We were visiting in July, which meant the sun was beating down too, so take a secure hat to protect your head, and don't forget the suncream.
Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens: The wildlife is the real star here.
Time it right: Spring and summer are prime seasons for birdlife, especially if you want to see the gannets nesting.
Why it’s worth it
Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher or just curious about the dramatic rock you can see from the beach, a boat trip to Bass Rock is a highlight of any North Berwick visit.
We were delighted with views of thousands of gannets and their babies gripping onto the cliff edges, sleek cormorants and kittiwakes diving into the water around us and seals.
The aim of the trip was to see puffins, and we were lucky, tiny puffins flew around us, fast-approaching the season to leave North Berwick and head to sea.
We didn't see dolphins as they weren't out to play, but there is always next time.
It’s not just about the birds, though they are spectacular, it’s about stepping into a wild, otherworldly space just off the coast.
It’s a short journey, but creates a lifetime of memories.
Enjoy a boat trip to Bass Rock for stunning views of step cliffs covered with sea birds, an unmissable part of any trip to East Lothian.
Contact us to help plan your stay in North Berwick and the surrounding towns.
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