Puffins, Seals & Lighthouses Tour

About this experience

Puffin season is done for 2026 — these sailings return in April. Sailing now: our autumn Rathlin and Carrick-a-Rede trips on the daily sailings page.

Northern Ireland's classic puffin tour: two hours from Ballycastle into Rathlin Sound, among the seabirds and the seals.

On the water

– Out of Ballycastle harbour with views of the North Coast, Rathlin Island and, on a clear day, the Mull of Kintyre, Islay and Jura

– Rue Point lighthouse and the seals at Ushet Port

– One of the UK's largest seabird colonies: over 100,000 nesting birds

– The East Lighthouse at Altacorry, 72 metres above the sea

– Bruce's Cave, where Robert the Bruce sheltered in 1306

Wildlife you may see

– Puffins, often on the water right beside the boat (April to mid-August)

– Razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, skuas and fulmars on the nesting cliffs

– Diving gannets, the best photo of the day if you time it right

– Seals basking at Rue Point

– Dolphins and porpoises along the route (occasionally and never promised, but it happens)

– Late summer brings the odd minke whale or basking shark (rare and never promised, but it happens)

Good to know

– Warm, waterproof clothing; bring a blanket if you feel the cold

– Mixed indoor and outdoor seating

– Limited wheelchair access — see our FAQ and message us before booking

– A Marine Mammal Observer or scientist is often onboard to help spot

– Weather dependent

Departs: Ballycastle Harbour (outer pier)

Duration: approx 2 hours

NB: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Ballycastle is busy in peak season, so allow time for parking.