Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking and experiencing a Seafari adventure
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FAQs
Booking & Payment
Tours & Experiences
Weather & Cancellations
What to Bring
Accessibility & Requirements
Wildlife
Getting There
Gift Vouchers
Questions or Special Requests?
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our friendly team is here to help.
Booking & Payment
How do I book a tour?
You can book online through our website for instant confirmation, or contact us by phone or email. Online booking is available 24/7 and you’ll receive immediate confirmation. Phone bookings are available Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm.
Do I need to pay in full when booking?
Yes, full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation. We accept credit/debit cards, bank transfer (for group bookings by arrangement), and gift vouchers.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak season (May-September) and for weekends. Popular tours and dates can sell out weeks in advance. However, we can sometimes accommodate last-minute bookings if space is available – just give us a call.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, subject to availability. Call us on 01852 300003 on the morning of your preferred date to check. We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance when possible.
What's your cancellation policy?
- More than 48 hours before departure: Full refund or reschedule
- 24-48 hours: 50% refund or reschedule with 25% fee
- Less than 24 hours: No refund (50% rebooking fee applies)
- No-show: No refund
We’re understanding in exceptional circumstances (medical emergencies, bereavement, etc.).
Can I change my booking date?
Yes, you can change your date free of charge if you notify us more than 48 hours before your original booking. Changes within 48 hours incur a £25 admin fee. All changes are subject to availability.
Will I receive a booking confirmation?
Yes, you’ll receive an email confirmation immediately after booking (online bookings) or within a few hours (phone bookings). This includes your booking reference, tour details, meeting point, and what to bring. If you don’t receive this, check your spam folder or contact us.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes! We offer competitive rates for groups of 8 or more. Private charters are often the best option for larger groups. Contact us directly for a tailored quote.
Is there a minimum age?
Minimum age is typically 4 years (though this varies by tour – check specific tour pages). Children must be at least 1 metre tall to fit life jackets safely. All children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Can I book a private tour?
Absolutely! We offer private charters from 2-8 hours. You’ll have the boat exclusively for your group (up to 12 people). Perfect for special occasions, corporate events, or when you want a tailored experience. See our Private Charters pages for details.
Tours & Experiences
Which tour should I choose?
It depends on your interests and time:
- 2hr Corryvreckan Wildlife Tour: Perfect for families, time-conscious visitors, first-timers
- 3hr Whirlpool Adventure: For thrill-seekers wanting high-speed excitement
- 3hr Wildlife & Whales Tour: Best for dedicated wildlife watchers
- Full Day Iona, Staffa & Puffins: Epic all-day adventure, island landings, puffin colonies
- Private Charter: Fully customisable, exclusive experience
How long are the tours?
Our scheduled tours range from 2 hours to a full day (approximately 7 hours). Private charters can be 2-8 hours, tailored to your preferences.
What's included in the tour price?
All tours include:
- Expert skipper and WiSE-accredited guide
- All safety equipment and briefings Waterproof jackets and trousers (all sizes)
- Life jackets (infant to adult sizes)
Not included: Food, beverages, gratuities.
Where do tours depart from?
All tours depart from Ellenabeich Harbour on the Isle of Seil. We’re 7 miles south of Oban and you can park in the free public car park.
What time do I need to arrive?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows time for check-in, safety briefing, and getting kitted out in waterproof gear. Tours depart promptly at the stated time.
How many people are on each tour?
Our RIB boats accommodate up to 12 passengers (plus crew). Scheduled tours typically have 8-12 people, but this varies. Private charters are exclusively for your group.
Are tours suitable for children?
Yes! Many families love our tours. Minimum age is typically 4 years, and children must be at least 1 metre tall. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. RIB tours can be bumpy, so consider your child’s temperament and whether they’ll enjoy the experience.
Is it scary or dangerous?
Not at all! While RIB boats are fast and exciting, safety is our absolute priority. You’re in the hands of experienced, qualified skippers with nearly 30 years of local knowledge. We provide comprehensive safety briefings and all necessary equipment. That said, tours can be bumpy, and you will get some spray – it’s part of the adventure!
Will I get wet?
You’ll likely get some spray, especially on more adventurous tours or in choppier conditions. That’s why we provide waterproof jackets and trousers! You’ll stay dry underneath. Some people love the refreshing spray – it’s part of the experience!
Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely! Many guests take amazing photos. We recommend:
- Waterproof case or bag (spray can occur)
- Strap for cameras/phones (in case of drops)
- Keep items secure when not in use
We accept no responsibility for water-damaged equipment, so protect your devices.
Weather & Cancellations
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety is our top priority. If conditions are unsuitable (high winds, poor visibility, rough seas), we’ll cancel the tour. You’ll receive either:
- Full refund, or
- Option to reschedule to another date, or
- Credit voucher valid for 12 months
We typically make weather decisions the evening before (6-8pm) or morning of your tour (6-8am). We’ll contact you by phone and email.
How do I know if my tour is cancelled?
We’ll contact you directly by phone and email if we need to cancel. Please ensure you’ve provided correct contact details and check your emails (including spam folder) the evening before and morning of your tour. You can also call us for an update.
What if it's raining?
Rain doesn’t mean cancellation! We provide waterproof clothing and many of our best tours happen in light rain. What matters most is wind speed, sea conditions, and visibility. Trust our experienced skippers to make the right call.
Can I cancel if I'm worried about weather?
Yes, our cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 48 hours before departure for a full refund. However, we have nearly 30 years of experience operating in Scottish conditions and only cancel when it’s genuinely unsafe. The weather can look worse than it is – give us a call if you’re concerned.
What time of year is best for tours?
We operate most of the year! Each season has its charm.
Is it cold on the boat?
It can be! Even on warm days, it’s cooler on the water due to wind chill and spray. We provide waterproof layers. Wear warm clothing underneath (see “What to Bring” for a full list).
What if only some of my group can come due to cancellation?
If we cancel the tour, everyone must reschedule or receive refunds – we can’t run tours for partial groups when conditions are unsafe. If you choose to cancel and some members of your party still want to attend, contact us to discuss options.
What to Bring
What should I wear?
Dress in layers for Scottish weather:
- Base layer: Thermal or warm clothing (trousers and long sleeves recommended)
- Mid layer: Fleece or jumper
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good grip (trainers, walking boots, deck shoes)
- Accessories: Warm hat, gloves (even in summer!), sunglasses, sunscreen
We provide waterproof jackets and trousers.
Can I wear shorts and flip-flops?
We strongly recommend against this! Even on warm days, it’s cooler on the water. Flip-flops are dangerous on boats (slippery surfaces). Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, and trousers or long leggings are much more comfortable.
What shoes should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential:
- Trainers (most popular choice)
- Walking boots
- Deck shoes
Avoid high heels, flip-flops, open-toed sandals, brand new white trainers (they’ll get wet!).
Should I bring food and drinks?
2-3hr tours: Not necessary, but you’re welcome to bring snacks and water in a waterproof bag.
Full day tours: Definitely bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. We stop on an island where you can eat lunch. No alcohol permitted on board.
Can I bring a backpack?
Yes, but keep it small and waterproof. There’s limited storage on RIB boats. Essentials only! We recommend:
- Small dry bag or waterproof backpack
- Phone/camera in waterproof case
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
Snacks and water (especially for longer tours)
Do I need to bring a life jacket?
No, we provide life jackets in all sizes from infant to adult. Wearing a life jacket is mandatory throughout the tour.
Should I bring seasickness tablets?
If you’re prone to motion sickness, yes! Take tablets before departure (follow package instructions for timing). RIB boats are fast and bouncy, which most people find exhilarating but can trigger seasickness in susceptible individuals. Fresh air and looking at the horizon help too.
Can I bring binoculars?
Absolutely! Great idea for wildlife watching. Just ensure they’re secured with a strap so they don’t fall overboard if the boat moves suddenly.
Accessibility & Special Requirements
Are tours accessible for wheelchair users?
We’re committed to making our tours as accessible as possible. Boarding a RIB does however require a step (with assistance), and the boats can be bumpy. Many wheelchair users have successfully enjoyed our tours – please contact us before booking to discuss your specific needs, and we’ll advise honestly about suitability.
I have limited mobility - can I still come?
Possibly! It depends on the extent of your mobility limitations. You need to be able to:
- Step onto the boat with assistance
- Sit on a bench seat (some have backrests)
- Hold on when the boat is moving
- Tolerate bouncing/movement
Contact us before booking, and we’ll discuss your situation and recommend the best tour option.
I'm pregnant - can I go on a tour?
We don’t recommend RIB tours during pregnancy due to the bouncing and jolting movement. This is for the safety of you and your baby. We’re unable to accept liability for any complications. However, you’re welcome to book for after your baby arrives!
I have a bad back/neck - is this suitable?
RIB tours can be quite bumpy, which may aggravate back or neck problems. If you have chronic back/neck issues or recent injuries, we’d generally advise against participating. That said, we do have seats with backrests and can recommend gentler routes. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Do you cater for food allergies?
We don’t provide food on tours, so you’re responsible for bringing your own snacks/lunch. This means you have complete control over dietary requirements and allergen avoidance.
I'm deaf/hard of hearing - will I understand the guide?
Our safety briefings and commentary are given verbally, but we can provide written safety information in advance. The guide will also use visual signals. Please let us know before departure so we can ensure clear communication.
Do you have facilities for people with disabilities?
Toilet facilities at Ellenabeich are standard public toilets. Our boats don’t have toilets due to size, so please use facilities before departure. For full-day tours, we stop at locations with toilet facilities.
Can you accommodate autism or sensory needs?
Yes, we’re happy to work with families to make the experience comfortable. Some considerations:
- Ear defenders are fine (but you’ll need to hear safety briefings)
- We can provide a visual schedule of the tour in advance
- You can bring comfort items/fidget toys
- Tours can be quite loud (engine noise) and stimulating
Contact us before booking to discuss specific needs.
Wildlife
Will I definitely see wildlife?
While we have excellent success rates, we cannot guarantee specific wildlife sightings. Wildlife is wild and unpredictable – sightings depend on weather, sea conditions, time of year, and simply being in the right place at the right time. However, we almost always see seals, and regularly encounter dolphins, porpoises, and various seabirds. Our experienced guides know the best spots!
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include:
- Very likely: Seals (common and grey), seabirds (guillemots, razorbills, gannets, shags)
- Regularly: Dolphins, porpoises, otters, eagles (sea and golden)
- Seasonally: Puffins (Apr-mid August), minke whales (May-September), basking sharks (May-August)
- Occasionally: Orcas, humpback whales, sunfish
When's the best time to see whales?
Minke whales are most common May-September. Humpback whales are occasional visitors, typically in summer and autumn. Orcas are rare but have been spotted year-round. Remember, these are wild animals – we can never guarantee sightings.
Can I see puffins?
Yes, on our full-day Iona, Staffa & Puffin Colony tour! Puffins are present on Staffa from April through mid-August (they leave to spend winter at sea). Peak puffin season is May-July. We get close enough for excellent photos without disturbing them.
How close do you get to wildlife?
We follow WiSE (Wildlife Safe) guidelines and maintain appropriate distances:
- Seals: Close enough for photos, but we don’t disturb them
- Dolphins/porpoises: They often approach us!
- Whales: 100m+ distance, we let them approach if curious
- Seabirds: Close but respectful
We never chase or harass wildlife – it’s about ethical wildlife watching.
What if we don't see much wildlife?
While rare, sometimes wildlife is elusive. We can’t offer refunds for lack of sightings as this is beyond our control. However, the scenery, Corryvreckan whirlpool, coastal geology, and overall experience are spectacular even without abundant wildlife. Our guides share fascinating information about the area regardless of sightings.
Can we feed the wildlife?
Absolutely not. Feeding wild animals:
- Changes their natural behaviour
- Can make them dependent on humans
- May be harmful to their health
- Is against WiSE guidelines
We take responsible wildlife watching very seriously.
How do you find the wildlife?
Our skippers have nearly 30 years of local knowledge! They know:
- Where seals haul out
- Feeding areas for seabirds
- Whale and dolphin hotspots
- Seasonal patterns and behaviours
- How to read sea conditions for wildlife activity
Plus a bit of luck and keeping a keen eye on the water!
Getting There & Parking
Where exactly do I go?
Tours depart from Ellenabeich Harbour on Seil Island. Full directions:
- Drive to Ellenabeich village (Isle of Seil, 7 miles south of Oban)
- Park in the public car park at Ellenabeich (free parking)
- Walk to the harbour (2 minutes, well signposted)
Is there parking?
Yes, free public parking is available at Ellenabeich. The car park is next to the ferry slipway. In peak season (summer), arrive with plenty of time as it can get busy. There’s overflow parking nearby if needed.
How far is it from Oban?
Approximately 7 miles (20 minutes drive) south of Oban via the A816 and B844. You’ll cross the famous Atlantic Bridge to reach Seil Island, then drive to Ellenabeich at the southern tip.
What if I'm coming from far away?
Many visitors travel from across Scotland and beyond:
- From Glasgow: 2 hours
- From Edinburgh: 2.5-3 hours
- From Inverness: 2 hours
- From Fort William: 1.5 hours
Oban is well-connected by road and rail. See our Plan Your Visit page for detailed travel information and accommodation options.
Is there accommodation nearby?
Yes! Options include:
- Easdale Island (self-catering cottages on the island)
- Ellenabeich village (B&Bs, guest houses)
- Oban (full range of hotels, B&Bs, hostels – 7 miles away)
- Isle of Seil (various self-catering options)
Are there facilities at the departure point?
Ellenabeich (on the mainland side) has:
- A pub-restaurant
- The village / Seafari shop!
- Public toilets
Easdale Island has:
- Pub & café (seasonal opening)
- Easdale Island Folk Museum (worth a visit!)
Gift Vouchers
How do gift vouchers work?
Our gift vouchers are valid for any Seafari tour. The recipient contacts us to book their chosen tour (subject to availability). Vouchers are valid for 12 months from purchase date.
How will the voucher be delivered?
You’ll receive an email confirmation immediately. Physical vouchers can also be posted to the address you provide (or directly to the recipient if you prefer). Allow 3-5 working days for postal delivery within the UK.
Can I buy a voucher for a specific tour?
Yes! We offer tour-specific vouchers:
- 2hr Corryvreckan Wildlife Tour
- 3hr Whirlpool Adventure
- 3hr Wildlife & Whales Tour
- Full Day Iona, Staffa & Puffins
Or you can purchase open vouchers that can be used for any tour.
How long are vouchers valid?
12 months from the date of purchase. The expiry date is clearly printed on the voucher. Unfortunately, we cannot extend vouchers beyond the expiry date.
Can I use multiple vouchers for one booking?
Yes, you can combine vouchers to pay for a single booking. For example, two 2-hour tour vouchers can be used toward a full-day tour (you’d pay the difference).
What if the recipient loses the voucher?
Contact us with the order details (purchaser name, email used) and we can verify the voucher in our system. We recommend recipients photograph or scan their vouchers as backup.
Can vouchers be refunded?
Gift vouchers are non-refundable once purchased. However, they can be transferred to another person if the original recipient can’t use them.
Can I purchase vouchers by phone?
Yes! Call us on 01852 300003, and we can process your voucher purchase over the phone. We’ll send email confirmation and can post the physical voucher on request.
Still Have Questions?
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