The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise offers a fascinating and scenic boat tour along the picturesque Firth of Forth near the vibrant city of Edinburgh, Scotland.
This unique cruise showcases the three iconic bridges that span the estuary: the Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the Queensferry Crossing.
With their striking architectural designs and historical significance, these bridges have become enduring symbols of engineering prowess and cultural heritage.
As you sail along the Firth of Forth, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views, rugged landscapes, and fascinating wildlife.
It’s an excursion that combines awe-inspiring architecture, natural beauty, and informative commentary, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Scotland’s engineering legacy and stunning coastal landscapes.
This article covers everything you should know before booking tickets for Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise.
Top Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise Tickets
# Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise tickets
# Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea
# Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise
Table of contents
- What to expect at Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise
- Where to book tickets
- How do online tickets work?
- Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise ticket prices
- Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise tickets
- Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea
- Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise
- How to reach
- Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise Timings
- How long does the tour take
- Best time to visit
- FAQs
What to expect at Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise
When embarking on the Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise, you can expect scenic beauty, iconic bridges, informative commentary, wildlife spotting, and more.
Prepare to be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty as you cruise along the Firth of Forth.
Admire the stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque islands, and panoramic views of the estuary. The cruise offers ample opportunities for capturing memorable photographs.
The most notable feature of the cruise is the three famous bridges that cross the Firth of Forth.
You’ll get an up-close view of the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and an engineering marvel.
Its distinctive red color and intricate lattice structure make it a sight.
You’ll also see the Forth Road Bridge, a historic road crossing, and the modern Queensferry Crossing, a cable-stayed bridge that opened in 2017.
The Firth of Forth is home to various marine life and bird species. If lucky, you might spot seals, dolphins, seabirds, and even puffins.
The cruise provides comfortable onboard facilities, including seating areas, restroom facilities, and a cafe or snack bar where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly excursion.
Children can learn about the bridges, listen to engaging stories, and enjoy the boat ride experience.
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh: ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise | £18 |
| Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea | £24 |
| Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise | £18 |
Where to book tickets
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise tickets can be purchased online or at the attraction.
To save time and money, we suggest buying your tickets online.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.
Because the activity provider sells limited tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointment.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
How do online tickets work?
Visit the Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise booking page, select your preferred date, time slot, and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.
After the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email.
There is no need to carry a printout.
You can walk in and show the e-ticket on your smartphone.
Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise ticket prices
Tickets for Edinburgh: ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise costs £18 for visitors aged 16 to 59
For visitors aged between six and 15 the ticket costs £11.
For visitors over 60 years old, these tickets cost £17.
Infants up to five years are free.
Ticket for Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea costs £24 for visitors aged 16 to 60.
For visitors aged between five and 15 years, the ticket costs £20.
For visitors over 60 years old, these tickets cost £22.
Infants four and younger can go on the cruise for free.
Tickets for Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise costs £18 for visitors aged 16 and above.
For visitors aged between five and 15 years, the tickets cost £11.
Infants up to four years old can take the cruise for free.
Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise tickets
Your tour will feature breathtaking views of the “three bridges,” including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Forth Railway Bridge.
In addition, visitors may enjoy stunning views of the Edinburgh skyline, the Kingdom of Fife, and the ancient island of Inchcolm, complete with a medieval abbey.
Discover the majesty of the red railway Forth Bridge, the Forth Road suspension bridge, and Queensferry Crossing, the world’s longest three-tower, cable-stayed bridge.
Throughout the tour, you can see and photograph various marine creatures, including seagulls, porpoises, and seals.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (16 to 59 years): £18
Child Ticket (6 to 15 years): £11
Senior Ticket (65+ years): £17
Infants up to five years can take the cruise for free.
Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea
Plentiful mythologies, violent history, and interesting marine animals exist in the Firth of Forth.
Join this boat excursion for a 90-minute ride on a beautiful catamaran. Depart from South Queensferry, only a short distance from Edinburgh, Scotland’s bustling capital city.
You will also see the Three Bridges in a new light, including the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge.
During your tour, there will be plenty of opportunities to see a range of marine creatures, including seagulls and seals.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (16 to 60 years): £24
Child Ticket (5 to 15 years): £20
Senior Ticket (61+ years): £22
Infants up to four years and younger are free.
Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise
The journey begins with the boat passing through the Red Forth Rail Bridge, then past the famous Inchgarvie Island, and on to Inchcolm Island.
On the cruise, you may spot some wildlife, such as seals and puffins.
After passing around Inchcolm Island, watch for sunbathing seals on the Haystack before returning under the Red Rail Bridge to the Forth Road Bridge and the recently opened Queensferry Crossing.
After passing beneath these magnificent bridges, the boat will return to Hawes Pier, where you can disembark.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (16+ years): £18
Child Ticket (5 to 15 years): £11
Infants up to fours years can take the cruise for free.
Save time and money! The Edinburgh Pass offers swift access to three of Edinburgh’s best activities and sights, allowing you to get to know the city’s nooks and corners. Visit Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia, and take two tours: one with traditional history and one with a podcast guide sharing local perspectives and odd tales. You will also receive a 10% discount coupon on other Edinburgh-based attractions.
How to reach
The Forth Boat Tours boat agency is in Port Edgar, Port Edgar Marina, South Queensferry, United Kingdom. Get Directions.
The meeting point for the Firth of Forth sightseeing cruise is Hawes Pier, South Queensferry, EH30 9TB or Port Edgar Marina, South Queensferry, EH30 9SQ.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure and check-in at the Forth Boat Tours ticket kiosk within Hawes Pier or Port Edgar Marina.
You can reach the meeting point by car or public transport.
Buy Bus
You can board bus number 43, 63, or N43 to reach the nearest bus stops Queensferry Police Station. The bus stop is only 8 minutes walk from boat agency office.
By Car
If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and begin your journey.
There are numerous parking garages near Firth of Forth Three Bridges Cruise.
Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise Timings
The cruises mostly operate multiple times throughout the day to accommodate different schedules.
The morning cruises typically start around 10.30 am or 11 am
Afternoon cruises are commonly scheduled at 12.15 pm, 1 pm and 2 pm.
The sunset cruises usually depart in the early evening at 5 pm, closer to sunset.
How long does the tour take
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise typically ranges from 90 minutes to 2 hours.
During the cruise, you’ll have ample time to sail along the Firth of Forth, admire the three bridges, enjoy the scenic views, and listen to the commentary provided by the guides.
You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the bridges and the surrounding landscapes for a leisurely duration.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Three Bridges Cruise is at 10.30 am when the first tour begins.
You may consider going early in the day when the visitors are minimal.
If you’re interested in seeing the bridges illuminated at night, consider visiting during the cruise at 5 pm, when the bridges are lit up with colorful lights.
It can create a stunning visual spectacle during the darker evenings.
It is advisable to plan your visit on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid large crowds.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Three Bridges Cruise Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise is a boat tour along the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh, Scotland.
It specifically focuses on the three iconic bridges that span the estuary: the Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the Queensferry Crossing.
Yes, it is possible to purchase tickets online in advance. This is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Here are some available ticket options – Edinburgh: ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise, Queensferry: Sightseeing Cruise with Cream Tea and Queensferry: 1.5-Hour Maid of the Forth Sightseeing Cruise.
Most Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruises provide commentary or guided explanations throughout the journey.
Tour operators have knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts, history, and information about the bridges, landmarks, and wildlife you encounter.
The commentary is available in English.
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities.
You’ll have the chance to capture stunning views of the bridges, the estuary, and the scenic landscapes.
Many cruises provide onboard facilities to purchase refreshments such as snacks, beverages, and light meals.
The availability and variety of refreshments may vary depending on the tour operator and your package.
The Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise is suitable for children and families.
It can be an enjoyable and educational experience for kids, offering them a chance to see the impressive bridges up close, enjoy the boat ride, and learn about the local history and landmarks through the guided commentary.
To ensure a pleasant experience on your cruise, you should choose comfortable clothing appropriate for the day’s weather conditions.
Additionally, bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella in case of rain.
Sources
# Forthtours.com
# Pelago.co
# Tripadvisor.com
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