Iona, Staffa & Puffin Colony Day Trip
A full day exploring Scotland’s most iconic islands with 2.5 hours ashore on Iona
This full-day adventure combines Scotland’s rich spiritual heritage with its stunning natural wonders, all from the comfort of our cabin RIB. Departing from Easdale, we visit three of the Hebrides’ most remarkable islands—each offering something completely unique.
What makes this tour special is the generous time ashore on Iona. Rather than a brief stop, you’ll have 2.5 hours to truly experience this sacred island at your own pace. Explore the magnificently restored Iona Abbey, where St Columba brought Christianity to Scotland in 563 AD. Wander the ancient graveyard where 48 Scottish kings are said to be buried. Walk the pristine white-sand beaches. Visit one of the island’s charming cafés for lunch, or bring a picnic to enjoy with spectacular views.
Our arrival time is carefully planned—we reach Iona before the main tourist influx from Oban, giving you a more peaceful, authentic experience of this spiritual place.
After re-boarding, we cruise to Staffa to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary geological displays. The island’s hexagonal basalt columns—formed by ancient volcanic activity—create otherworldly formations that captivated Victorian travellers and continue to amaze visitors today. Fingal’s Cave, the cathedral-like sea cave at Staffa’s heart, inspired composer Felix Mendelssohn and writers like Jules Verne.
During breeding season (April to late July), we will visit Staffa’s puffin colony—a guaranteed highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. These charismatic birds, with their distinctive orange beaks and comical waddling gait, provide endless entertainment.
The return journey hugs Mull’s dramatic south coast, where we pass the spectacular Carsaig Arches before arriving back at Easdale by mid-afternoon.
Duration
6 hours 45 mins
From
£98
Ages
5+
Departures
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Ready to Book?
09:45
Depart Easdale
Setting off on our comfortable cabin RIB for the journey to Iona. Wildlife spotting begins immediately!
11:00
Arrive Iona
2.5 hours ashore to explore the famous abbey, beaches, cafés, and stunning island scenery.
13:30
Re-board & Visit Staffa
Cruise to Staffa’s spectacular basalt columns. View Fingal’s Cave from the sea (non-landing).
14:30
Puffin Colony (Seasonal)
Visit the puffin colony at Staffa’s NW corner (breeding season: April to late July).
15:30
Return Journey
Scenic return via south coast of Mull, viewing the impressive Carsaig Arches.
16:30
Arrive Back Easdale
Three Incredible Sights, One Unforgettable Day
Iona
- Iona Abbey (must-see)
- Ancient monastic sites
- Beautiful beaches
- Cafés and restaurants
- Gift shops and local crafts
- Arrive before the crowds
Staffa
- Fingal’s Cave
- Hexagonal basalt columns
- Victorian heritage
- Natural wonder
- Photography paradise
Puffin Colony
- Close viewing
- Photography opportunities
- Breeding colony
- Unique cliffside habitat
- Best observed April-July
What You Need to Know
Included in Your Tour:
- 6h 45min island tour
- Cabin RIB with heated interior
- Expert skipper and wildlife guide
- 2.5 hours ashore on Iona
- Staffa viewing (Fingal’s Cave)
- Puffin colony visit (seasonal)
- Carsaig Arches viewing
- Full safety equipment and briefing
Not Included:
- Food and refreshments
- Hotel transfers
- Cameras
- Iona Abbey entrance fee (donations appreciated)
- Landing on Staffa (viewing is from the boat)
What to Bring:
- Packed lunch OR money for Iona cafés
- Drinks and snacks
- Warm, layered clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes for Iona
- Camera with zoom lens
- Waterproof jacket (just in case)
- Sun protection (sunglasses, cream)
- Binoculars (for puffins)
This tour operates on one of our purpose-built cabin RIBs, the perfect combination of speed, comfort, and weather protection for a full day on the water.
Cabin RIB Features
- Comfortable Cabin: The cabin provides shelter from wind and spray throughout the journey. This makes the longer duration much more comfortable.
- Swift Transit: Powered by twin engines, we reach Iona in just 75 minutes—far quicker than conventional ferries. This speed maximises your time on the islands.
- Purpose-Built Design: Constructed in our own dedicated workshops with the same attention to detail as our other vessels. The cabin RIBs are specifically designed for longer tours.
- Dual Seating Options: While the cabin provides protection, you’re free to sit outside on the deck when weather permits, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and better wildlife viewing.
Booking Details
- Departure Point: Ellenabeich, nr Oban
- Check-in Time: 15 minutes before departure
- Parking: Free parking available at Ellenabeich
- What to Wear: Warm layers recommended (waterproofs provided)
- Cancellation: See our booking conditions for details
Important Note
Suitable for children aged 5 and above. The long duration and time ashore make this ideal for families. Younger children enjoy the puffins and abbey exploration.
Puffins breed on Staffa from April through late July. They head back offshore in late summer, so book early in season for guaranteed puffin viewing.
Wear trousers (not skirts) as lifejackets have crotch straps. Bring warm layers even in summer. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Iona.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Is food included or available on the tour?
Food is not included in the tour price. You have two options: (1) Bring a packed lunch, snacks, and drinks, or (2) Purchase lunch at one of Iona’s cafés or restaurants. There are several good options on the island, but they can be busy during peak season. We recommend booking a table in advance if you plan to eat at a specific café.
What if the puffins have already left?
Puffins typically depart Staffa in late July as their breeding season ends. If you’re booking for August or September, we’ll be honest that puffins are unlikely to be present. However, the tour remains spectacular—Iona Abbey and Fingal’s Cave are world-class attractions regardless of season. Other seabirds are present year-round.
Can we land on Staffa?
No, this tour views Staffa from the boat. Our skipper will position the vessel for optimal viewing of the basalt columns and, if conditions allow, will nudge into Fingal’s Cave so you can experience it from water level. Landing on Staffa requires different permits and significantly more time.
Is 2.5 hours enough time on Iona?
Yes, it’s sufficient for most visitors. You can comfortably explore the abbey (45 mins), enjoy lunch (45 mins), walk the beaches or visit other sites (45 mins), with time remaining for photos and browsing gift shops. If you’re an enthusiastic hiker wanting to walk the entire island, you might want more time—but for typical visitors, 2.5 hours provides a good balance.
What happens if weather is bad on our booked day?
Safety is our priority. If sea conditions are unsuitable, we’ll contact you to reschedule or provide a full refund. We operate in most weather conditions, and the cabin RIB provides good protection, but occasionally conditions exceed safe operating limits.
Do you provide waterproof clothing for this tour?
No, because the cabin RIB provides weather protection throughout the journey, waterproof clothing is not provided. However, we still recommend bringing a waterproof jacket for use on Iona, where you’ll be ashore for 2.5 hours and weather can be changeable.
Are there toilet facilities on the boat and islands?
Yes, our cabin RIB has an onboard toilet. There are also public toilet facilities on Iona near the ferry pier.
Is this tour suitable for elderly passengers or those with limited mobility?
Many elderly passengers thoroughly enjoy this tour. However, participants must be able to board and exit the boat via ladder (with crew assistance). On Iona, the main abbey and facilities are relatively accessible, though there are some uneven paths. If you have concerns about specific mobility issues, please call us to discuss: 01852 300003.
Can we bring our dog?
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this tour due to regulations on Iona and the length of the journey.
What about seasickness?
The cabin RIB offers good stability, and we travel through relatively sheltered waters (not open ocean). Most passengers have no issues. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication 30 minutes before departure. You can also sit in the cabin rather than outside if you prefer.
Can you guarantee good weather for photography?
Scottish weather is famously unpredictable! We operate the tour in most conditions, and often dramatic weather creates the most atmospheric photographs. Morning light is generally excellent for Iona Abbey. Bring a waterproof camera case regardless of forecast.
Is Iona Abbey open year-round?
Yes, the abbey grounds are open year-round, though opening hours may vary seasonally. The abbey is an active place of worship, so occasionally services or events may limit access to certain areas. This is rare and doesn’t significantly impact your visit.
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