See adorable puffins as they build their nests on the rocky outcrops of the Scottish Coast!

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Puffin Day Tour Scotland Map

Puffin Spotting Day Tour from Edinburgh

Would you like to see Puffins, dramatic coastline and a Historic Castle in Scotland? All this in 1 day departing daily from Edinburgh!

You’ll explore the coastal castle ruin of Tantallon Castle, set sail to see puffins on a cruise and soak up the beautiful east coast town of North Berwick.

It’s the perfect 1 day tour for those who LOVE seeing wildlife & exploring castle ruins.

Tour Highlights:

Explore Tantallon Castle with its breathtaking cliffside views
Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the seaside town of North Berwick
Spot puffins, seals, and other wildlife on a guided boat tour
Listen to the History & Legends that bring the places to life!

May 2026
The Puffin Tour start and End Times change daily due to the change in tidal times each day.

1st May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
2nd May - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
3rd May - 10:45am Start - 10:30am Check-in
5th May - 10:30am Start - 10:15 Check-in
6th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
8th May - 1:15pm Start - 1pm Check-in
9th May - 7am Start - 6:45am Check-in
10th May - 7:15am Start - 7am Check-in
13th May - 9:15am Start - 9am Check-in
14th May - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
15th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
16th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
19th May - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
20th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
21st May - 12:30pm Start - 12:15pm Check-in
22nd May - 1:15pm Start - 1pm Check-in
23rd May - 7am Start - 6:45am Check-in
25th May - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
26th May - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
27th May - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
28th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
29th May - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
31st May - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
The Puffin Tour start and End Times change daily due to the change in tidal times each day.

2nd June - 9:45am Start - 9:30am Check-in
6th June - 1pm Start - 12:45pm Check-in
8th June - 7:30am Start - 7:15am Check-in
10th June - 9:15am Start - 9am Check-in
11th June - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
12th June - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
15th June - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
16th June - 9:30am Start - 9:15am Check-in
17th June - 9:45am Start - 9:30am Check-in
18th June - 10:45am Start - 10:30am Check-in
19th June - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
20th June - 12:45pm Start - 12:30pm Check-in
21st June - 7:15am Start - 7am Check-in
22nd June - 8:15am Start - 8am Check-in
23rd June - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
24th June - 9:45am Start - 9:30am Check-in
30th June - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
The Puffin Tour start and End Times change daily due to the change in tidal times each day.

1st July - 9:30am Start - 9:15am Check-in
4th July - 11:30am Start - 11:15am Check-in
6th July - 12:45pm Start - 12:30pm Check-in
8th July - 7:45am Start - 7:30am Check-in
9th July - 8:15am Start - 8am Check-in
10th July - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
11th July - 8:15am Start - 8am Check-in
12th July - 9:15am Start - 9am Check-in
13th July - 10:30am - 10:15am Check-in
15th July - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
17th July - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
21st July - 7:15am Start - 7am Check-in
22nd July - 8:15am Start - 8am Check-in
23rd July - 9:15am Start - 9am Check-in
24th July - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
26th July - 10:30am Start - 10:15am Check-in
27th July - 10:30am Start - 10:15 Check-in
28th July - 11:30am Start - 11:15 Check-in
29th July - 8:45am Start - 8:30am Check-in
30th July - 9am Start - 8:45am Check-in
Puffin Cruise Day Tour Itinerary
Check-in Time: 15 minutes before tour start time
Departure from Edinburgh: Changes Daily
Stop 1: Tantallon Castle
Your first stop is Tantallon Castle, a stunning medieval stronghold perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea. Dating back to the 14th century, this fortress offers fascinating insights into Scotland’s history and spectacular views of Bass Rock and the surrounding islands. Explore the ruins and imagine life in this rugged coastal stronghold.
Stop 2: North Berwick
Next, head to North Berwick, a coastal town known for its sandy beaches, vibrant harbours, and cosy cafés.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste fresh seafood or other Scottish delicacies. Afterward, take time to explore the town’s shops, stroll along the shoreline, or simply soak in the peaceful seaside atmosphere.
Stop 3: Boat Tour to See Puffins and Wildlife
The final stop of the day is where you’ll set off on an unforgettable wildlife boat tour.
From May to the beginning of August, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to see puffins nesting on nearby islands. The tour also showcases Bass Rock, home to the world’s largest gannet colony, and seals basking on rocky shores. Learn from expert guides as they share fascinating facts about Scotland’s coastal ecosystem and its diverse wildlife.
This thrilling boat tour is the highlight of the day, offering incredible opportunities to spot some of Scotland’s beautiful wildlife.
Return to Edinburgh
After a day of exploring Scotland’s coastal beauty and wildlife, return to Edinburgh. The return time changes daily.
This tour may be completed in a different order depending on a variety of reasons.
Book Your Puffin Adventure Today!
Experience the best of Scotland’s coastline, history, and wildlife!
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Edinburgh Pick-up Location
Meet your guide outside the Jolly Botanist
256-260 Morrison Street,
Edinburgh,
EH3 8DT
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What’s Included in your Castle & Puffin Day Tour Departing Edinburgh
Included
Entry for Puffin Boat Tour
Entry to Tantallon Castle
A Fun & Friendly Guide
A Fully Air-Conditioned Vehicle
Beautiful Coastal Scenery
Stories, Myths & Legends
Not Included
Waterproof Clothing for Puffin Boat Tour
Lunch & Snacks
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We aim to provide you over the top value so that you have the best time possible as you visit Scotland and travel with us!
★★★★★
Most importantly, Clients consistently review us as a 5-star Tour Operator on
- TripAdvisor
- Google
★★★★★
We’re reviewed every year by the National Tourism organisation - Visit Scotland and are consistently awarded 5 stars for all aspects of your Scotland Tour.
★★★★★
We provide Small Group Tours of no more than 16 people to ensure a more personal and enjoyable experience as you travel into the Highlands of Scotland.
★★★★★
#Sightdoing
Our Sightseeing tours aim to get you out of the minibus and into the Scottish Highlands on foot so you can get a proper feel of Scotland and its countryside.
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Single day tours
To secure a single day tour, a 50% payment is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 8 days before your tour start date.
Payment of the remaining balance will be taken automatically at that time.
What makes the Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour Special?
Your Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour differs from other generic bus tours as we focus on getting you out and really experiencing the spectacular landscape. You’ll learn about the area and the history, enjoy the culture and bond with your fellow visitors. We don't just go sightseeing, we take part in sightdoing.
Is the Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour for me?
Before booking on to our tour, please remember that this is an active sightseeing tour and might not be for everyone. We will be going on a boat tour for approx. 2 hours so bare this in mind when booking. It may not be for you if you or anyone in your group suffers from sea sickness.
Please also note the boat tour is not suitable for those who are pregnant or have back problems/injuries.
What should I bring on the Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour?
For the boat tour, please bring your own waterproofs as these are not included.
As the weather can be unpredictable at times in Scotland, for your day tour we recommend you bring light waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots or shoes. You may also want to bring midge repellent as during certain times of year (primarily April - September) the midges may irritate you. If you’re lucky enough to get a nice sunny day, then some sun cream would be great. If it’s during the colder months, then some warm clothing, gloves and a hat may also be useful.
When should I arrive for the Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour?
We ask all clients to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour, this ensures a prompt departure. If you’re going to be late, get in touch as soon as possible at +44 131 241 8292 and we will see about getting you on another tour if there is availability. This is not a guarantee though.
Is there Parking near the Edinburgh Departure location?
No, we recommend not driving to this starting location. There is plenty of public transport to this tour’s starting location.
How long will I be out of the vehicle?
On your Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour, you’ll be out of the vehicle as often as possible. We will be walking around Tantallon Castle, North Berwick and also out of the van for 2+ hours for the boat tour.
Do you have any age restrictions?
For our scheduled day tours, we have a minimum age limit of 12 years old. If you have children under 12 who you’d like to take on a Day Tour, we recommend getting in touch at info@scotlandswild.com and asking about a fully private tour for you and your group.
Should I bring lunch?
There will be no need to bring any lunch as you’ll be stopping off for some delicious lunch in North Berwick.
Can I take my luggage with me?
On your Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour, there is space for everyone to have a rucksack or handbag so you can carry your essentials. If you have a suitcase or any form of larger luggage, then do get in touch before booking to find out if we still have space to store it during your trip. You can do so via our email info@scotlandswild.com
Will there be plenty of bathroom breaks?
During your exploration of the East coast, there are plenty of locations to stop and use the facilities.
Should I tip my Tour Guide?
If you believe your guide provided you with a great experience then yes, they will always appreciate a wee bonus. Though it is completely up to you on how much that may be or if you’d like to provide one.
What’s your Day Tour Cancellation Policy?
Any cancellation for our Puffin Boat Trip & Tantallon Castle Day Tour 8 or more days before the tour start day, will be issued a full refund. Cancelling between 4 and 7 days before the tour start date, you will be issued a 50% refund and cancelling within 3 days of the tour, full payment is taken. To see all our T&Cs, check them out here
What happens if I miss my tour?
If you are late for your tour, the cancellation policy will apply. If on the day, you believe you will be late, do get in touch as soon as possible at +44 131 241 8292and we will see about getting you on another tour if there is availability. This is not a guarantee though.
Do I have Travel Insurance Provided?
We don’t provide travel insurance, though we highly recommend taking out appropriate travel insurance for any vacation to Scotland.
I still have more questions; how can I get answers?
We’re always happy to answer any question and would love to help you as much as possible before you arrive in Scotland, so do get in touch if you think we can help info@scotlandswild.com
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