Scotland’s Most Experienced Marine Wildlife Tour Operators
Nearly 30 years of sharing Scotland’s wild west coast with adventurers from around the world
A Family Business
Owned and operated locally by the same family for nearly 30 years
WiSE Accredited
Certified for responsible wildlife watching practices
5-Star VisitScotland
Recognised for exceptional quality and service by Scotland’s national tourism organisation
Local Knowledge
Founded and raised on these waters; nobody knows them better
We’re Seafari, a 5-Star Visit Scotland Accredited Tour Operator.
In 1991, something special began in the sheltered harbour of Easdale, a tiny island off Scotland’s west coast. What started as a single boat and a passion for these remarkable waters has grown into one of Scotland’s most respected marine wildlife tour operators—yet we’ve never lost sight of why we started.
We’re a family business, and these waters are quite literally in our blood. The skippers who captain our vessels aren’t just experienced mariners—they love this coastline. They learned to read the tides, know every reef and current, and can spot a distant dorsal fin that others would miss entirely.
Over three decades, we’ve been privileged to introduce thousands of visitors to the wildlife that makes Scotland’s west coast truly extraordinary. Every minke whale breach, every dolphin bow-ride, every sea eagle soaring overhead—these moments never get old for us. The thrill we felt on our first tour in 1991 is the same thrill we feel today when we see a guest’s face light up at their first whale encounter.
But being Scotland’s most experienced operator brings responsibility. We were Scotland’s first RIB-based wildlife tour operator, pioneering a style of adventure tourism that’s now common across the Highlands. We hold WiSE accreditation for responsible wildlife watching, meaning every tour follows strict codes of conduct that put animal welfare first. Our 5-star VisitScotland rating isn’t just about comfort—it reflects our commitment to excellence in every aspect of what we do.
We operate in the Firth of Lorn, a designated Special Area of Conservation and Marine Protected Area where destructive fishing practices are restricted. This protection means the seabeds have regenerated, fish stocks have flourished, and the wildlife populations are thriving. When you tour with us, you’re not just watching nature—you’re supporting a conservation area that ensures these animals have a future.
Today, we operate five vessels ranging from high-speed RIBs to our comfortable catamaran, Celtic Adventurer. We’ve grown, but we haven’t changed. We’re still family-owned, still passionate, still committed to sharing these waters responsibly and honestly. Every member of our team genuinely loves what they do, and it shows.
When you choose Seafari, you’re not just booking a tour—you’re joining a family with respect for nature, commitment to excellence, and genuine Highland hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Tony & Jess Hill, Founders of Seafari Adventures
Nearly 30 Years of Adventure
1997
Seafari Begins
Our first tours depart from Ellenabeich, introducing visitors to the West Coast of Scotland’s incredible wildlife.
Early 2000s
Scottish Tourism Awards
Recognition as pioneers in adventure tourism and responsible wildlife watching.
2010s
Fleet Expansion
Growing from one boat to five vessels, including Celtic Adventurer catamaran for enhanced comfort.
2020s
WiSE Accreditation
Official recognition for our commitment to responsible wildlife watching and conservation practices.
Wildlife Comes First
WiSE accredited practices mean we always put widlife welfare above entertainment. Respectful distances, no chasing, ethical observation.
Honest Communication
Unmatched Local Knowledge
Our skippers know this coastline like the back of their hands. They know every reef, current, and wildlife hotspot through decades of experience.
Safety Without Compromise
Modern vessels, experienced crew, comprehensive insurance, and rigorous safety procedures on every single tour.
Environmental Stewardship
Operating in a Marine Protected Area isn’t just our location—it’s our responsibility. We actively support conservation efforts.
True Passion
Our team genuinely loves what they do. After 30 years, we’re still as excited by every whale sighting as we were on day one.
Island Community
Proud to be part of the Easdale Island, Ellenabeich and wider Argyll & Bute communities. We support local businesses and sustainable Highland tourism.
5-Star Excellence
Our VisitScotland 5-star rating reflects our commitment to exceptional quality in every aspect of your experience.
Let us introduce you to the experienced crew who make every Seafari adventure special
Voirrey
Ticket Office
Roy
Skipper
Lydia
Tour Guide
Kieron
Skipper
Tony
Co-Founder
Jess
Co-Founder
Ready to Book?
Happy Customers
Wild Places Visited
Positive Reviews
Award Wining
Frequently Asked Questions.
How long have you been operating?
Seafari has been operating from Easdale Island since 1997—nearly 30 years of sharing Scotland’s west coast with visitors from around the world. We were Scotland’s first RIB-based wildlife tour operator and remain family-owned and operated.
What does your WiSE accreditation mean?
WiSE (Wildlife Safe) is the UK’s highest standard for wildlife watching operators. It means we follow strict codes of conduct developed by marine scientists, maintain respectful distances from wildlife, never chase or herd animals, and our skippers receive ongoing training in responsible practices. We put animal welfare first, always.
Are you insured and certified?
Absolutely. All our vessels are fully insured, commercially coded by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and undergo regular safety inspections. Our skippers hold all required maritime qualifications and certifications. We carry comprehensive passenger liability insurance on every tour.
Do you operate in all weather?
We operate in most weather conditions, but safety comes first. If conditions are unsuitable, we’ll reschedule your tour at no cost. Our experienced skippers make weather decisions based on forecast, sea state, and passenger comfort. We’d rather reschedule than compromise safety or your experience.
What makes you different from other tour operators?
Honest answer? Experience. With 30+ years operating these waters, our skippers have unmatched local knowledge. We’re also family-owned (not a corporate operation), WiSE accredited for responsible wildlife watching, 5-star VisitScotland rated, and genuinely passionate about what we do. Our reviews speak for themselves.
Can we book private tours?
Yes! We offer both 2-6 hour private charters and full-day bespoke experiences. Private charters give you complete flexibility with timing, route, and duration. They’re perfect for families, special occasions, corporate events, or anyone wanting a tailored experience. Visit our Private Charters page for details.
Are children welcome on all tours?
Most of our tours welcome children from age 3+, though we provide age guidance specific to each tour type. Some tours (like the extended whale watching) recommend a minimum age of 8 due to duration. We’re happy to discuss which tour best suits your family—just call us on 01852 300003.
What if we don't see any wildlife?
We’ll be honest: we cannot guarantee specific wildlife sightings because we’re watching wild animals in their natural habitat. However, we see seals, seabirds, and porpoises on virtually every tour, with dolphins and whales depending on season. Our skippers have decades of experience, and we’ll make every effort to find wildlife. That said, unpredictable nature is part of what makes these experiences so special.
Do you support local conservation?
Yes, actively. We operate in a Marine Protected Area, hold WiSE accreditation for responsible practices, contribute sighting data to marine research, and educate every guest about conservation. We also employ locally, support island businesses, and operate with the long-term health of the environment and community as priorities.
Can we visit Easdale Island before or after our tour?
Absolutely! The island is car-free, peaceful, and worth exploring. There’s a small heritage museum, community café, and beautiful walks. Many guests arrive early to look around or stay after their tour. The island community is welcoming, and it adds to the overall experience.