Queensferry is one of those special spots where the scenery and history come together. Tucked along the Firth of Forth, this charming town offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its stunning coastline, iconic bridges, and nearby sights. We particularly enjoy the Forth of Forth cruises, which combine spectacular views with the chance to see puffins and seals — a true highlight for wildlife lovers. Plus, if you’re after something active, flying over water on an electric hydrofoil surfboard is a must-try for thrill-seekers. Whether you’re into scenic boat rides or historical excursions, Queensferry has something that fits different tastes and budgets.
What makes Queensferry especially appealing for tours is its proximity to Edinburgh, yet it offers a distinct maritime vibe. The sightseeing cruises provide unbeatable views of the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge and Inchcolm Island, while the day trip into the Scottish Highlands reveals rugged landscapes and historic castles just a short drive away. For those interested in birdwatching, a guided cruise with RSPB staff gives a close-up look at puffins and guillemots. Below, you’ll find a list of the six best tours in Queensferry, each with details to help you decide which experience suits your interests and travel style.
1. Edinburgh: ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise
At number 1 on our list, this cruise offers a 1.5-hour scenic boat ride through the Firth of Forth, providing fantastic views of the famous Three Bridges — including the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge. The tour departs from Fife and combines breathtaking scenery with wildlife spotting opportunities. During the cruise, you’ll see Inchcolm Island and its medieval abbey, which is a highlight for history buffs. The crew is known for sharing fascinating facts about the bridges, islands, and surrounding area, making it both an informative and relaxing experience. Expect to spot seals and puffins, especially during the spring and summer months.
The cruise’s value is excellent, costing only $27 per person, and reviews consistently praise the friendly crew and stunning views. Many mention it as a “highlight of their Edinburgh trip,” noting how close encounters with seals and puffins made it especially memorable. The itinerary includes stops for photo opportunities at the Forth Bridge and Inchcolm, plus scenic wildlife viewing. The cruise is perfect for those wanting a relaxing but visually impressive experience, with enough wildlife to delight nature lovers.
Bottom Line: For a compact, wildlife-rich cruise with iconic bridges and islands, this tour offers both value and memorable scenery. It’s ideal for short visits or those wanting a taste of the Forth’s maritime charm.
2. Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise to Inchcolm Island
Coming in at number 2, this 3-hour cruise takes you from Queensferry under the Forth Bridges to Inchcolm Island, famous for its well-preserved medieval abbey. The trip combines a scenic boat ride with the chance to explore the island’s ruins and beaches at your own pace. The boat departs from the Forth Boat Tours Ticket Office and offers spectacular views of the bridges, while the island itself provides a quiet spot to relax, walk, and enjoy marine wildlife like seals and puffins.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to visit Inchcolm’s historic abbey and WWII defenses, making it appealing for history enthusiasts. The boat ride is narrated with interesting facts, and the guides are praised for their humor and knowledge. Reviews note that the extra cost for exploring the island is worth it, although some travelers found the full 3-hour duration slightly misleading in terms of time on the island itself.
This trip offers great value, especially for those eager to combine wildlife viewing with history. The scenic cruise provides a memorable way to enjoy the Forth’s rugged coastline, with plenty of photo stops along the way. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed, educational experience in a stunning setting.
Bottom Line: This tour balances scenic beauty, wildlife, and history in a relaxed cruise that’s perfect for families or history buffs wanting to experience Inchcolm Island in style.
3. From Edinburgh: Scottish Highlands Full-Day Trip
Number 3 takes you far from the coast into the heart of Scotland’s rugged Highlands. This full-day trip is ideal for those craving a comprehensive look at Scotland’s landscapes, castles, and villages. The tour includes stops at Blackness Castle, Loch Tay, and the Kelpies—amazing sculptures that resemble giant horse-heads. While it’s a long day (about 9 hours), the journey covers hidden corners and iconic sights like Killin and Perth.
The tour is driven by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about Scotland’s history and landscape, making the experience engaging. It’s more suited for travelers who want a deep dive into the Highland scenery than those looking for a leisurely cruise or short excursion. The review mentions Ross, the guide, as a highlight—“funny, informative, with tons of energy.”
This trip offers great value for a full-day adventure—especially if you want to see castles, lochs, and rural villages without planning each stop yourself. It’s best for active travelers with a full day to spare. The main drawback? Its length and the fact that it’s a fairly busy bus tour, so if you prefer a slow pace, this might not be your top choice.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, hassle-free glimpse of Scotland’s Highlands, this tour delivers a memorable and scenic experience, especially for those eager to see major sights in one day.
4. Edinburgh: Fly Over Water On an Electric Hydrofoil Surfboard
If you’re looking for something truly different, number 4 is a thrilling water adventure—flying over water on an electric hydrofoil surfboard. This tour is perfect for adventurous souls eager for a modern, high-tech experience. Starting at Newhalls Road, you’ll learn how to balance and ride this £13,000 piece of equipment with guidance from experienced instructors.
What makes this activity stand out is the feeling of true freedom—gliding smoothly over the water, with views of the Forth Bridge in the background. It’s a short, but intense session that combines fun, physical activity, and a sense of accomplishment. Reviews highlight how “super fun” and well-guided the experience is, making it ideal for those looking to add an adrenaline rush to their trip.
While this tour is pricier at $363 per person, it fits those wanting a unique, modern adventure that’s not just sightseeing but a hands-on activity. It’s suitable for physically active travelers, and the duration of 2.5 hours includes instruction and practice time. The only potential drawback is the cost, which might be steep for casual visitors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and water lovers, this high-tech water sport offers a memorable, fun experience that’s a bit different from traditional tours.
5. Queensferry: St. Andrews, Fife, and Falkland Shore Excursion
For those who want a full day of exploring historic sites, number 5 is an 8-hour guided tour that takes you beyond Queensferry into Fife and the surrounding countryside. Starting from Queensferry, you’ll visit Anstruther, a charming fishing village known for its seafood. Afterward, you’ll head to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, famous for its ruins and golf courses. The tour also includes a stop at Falkland Palace, which features the stunning Renaissance architecture seen in Outlander.
The tour is well-paced, with plenty of photo stops and time to explore on your own. The highlight for many is the Covenanters Hotel, a historic spot that adds a touch of Scottish authenticity. The price of about $120 per person makes it a solid value for a full day of sightseeing and culture.
Reviews mention the tour’s smooth logistics and the guide’s informative commentary. It’s well suited for history and architecture enthusiasts, as well as those eager to see some of Scotland’s most picturesque villages and castles. The main drawback is the long bus ride, but most travelers find the stops worthwhile.
Bottom Line: For a mix of history, scenery, and local flavor, this comprehensive day trip is a top choice—especially if you want to experience the charm of Fife and its surroundings.
6. South Queensferry: Birdwatching Cruise with RSPB Guide
Rounding out our list at number 6 is a 3-hour cruise focused on birdwatching, led by RSPB staff. Departing from South Queensferry, you’ll sail past the Inner Forth islands—Inchcolm, Inchgarvie, and Inchmickery—and focus on spotting puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and seals. The guides are known for their expertise and friendly approach, making it easier to identify and learn about the various species.
What makes this cruise special is the opportunity for close-up encounters with seabirds and the chance to see seals basking in the sun. The route includes stops at the Forth Bridge and Queensferry Crossing, offering excellent photo opportunities. The reviews highlight how exciting it is to see puffins and learn about local wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers and families wanting an educational, wildlife-focused experience. It provides a relaxing pace and a chance to connect with the region’s rich birdlife. The only caveat is that the price isn’t specified, but the experience is highly valued by participants.
Bottom Line: Ideal for birdwatchers and wildlife fans, this cruise combines scenic sailing with expert-guided wildlife spotting for a memorable outing.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Queensferry, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. For a quick, scenic overview, the Firth of Forth Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise offers excellent value and wildlife sightings. If history is your focus, the Inchcolm Island cruise delivers a mix of scenery and medieval ruins. For a full-day adventure, the Scottish Highlands trip is perfect, but it requires a full day and a willingness to travel farther.
Active travelers craving adventure should not miss the electric hydrofoil experience, which combines technology and thrill. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts will love the birdwatching cruise, especially during nesting seasons when puffins are most active.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot and enjoy the best availability. Think about what excites you most—iconic bridges, historic castles, wildlife, or a unique water sport—and pick the tour that matches.
Final Thoughts
Queensferry offers a diverse range of tours that suit different interests and energy levels. For breathtaking scenery and wildlife, the boat cruises stand out. If you’re into history and exploring charming towns, the full-day trip to Fife and Falkland is a winner. And for pure adrenaline, the hydrofoil experience is unlike anything else in the area.
No matter which you choose, each tour promises a memorable experience. For wildlife lovers, the birdwatching cruise and the Firth of Forth cruises are hard to beat. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Inchcolm Island visit and the Fife and Falkland day trip. Just remember to book early, especially if you’re visiting during the busy months, and prepare for some stunning views and authentic Scottish charm.
