Maid of the Forth
Unit 2 Hawes Pavillion and Pier, Newhalls Road South Queensferry
View on Google MapsPhoto: Josh Halliday
About Maid of the Forth
Set sail from South Queensferry aboard this scenic boat tour where families can watch for marine wildlife including seals, dolphins and porpoises while exploring the Firth of Forth's spectacular waters.
What's nearby
- Innkeeper's Collection Edinburgh North, South Queensferry next door
- Biker's Cove next door
- The Hawes Inn next door
- RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat Station next door
- Hawes Pier, Queensferry next door
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
It was a truly amazing experience from start to end. The crew and staff on the Island were all so friendly, kind and knowledgeable. The boat was comfortable and had everything we needed. When we landed on Inchcolm Island, we were given a guide as to what was available to see and explore as well as the services they offered (small freshment cafe, toilets, shop, World War I tunnel etc and of course, the abbey. We had plenty of time to explore the Island and it felt safe for us to leave our bags at a picnic table whilst we explored the Abbey. The Maid of the Forth have multiple crossings and the lovely gentleman onboard informed me that they also offer Scottish Evenings on board with Folk Music and Steak ! All round, Inchcolm Island is a beautiful and historic place to visit and the boat tour was informative and just honestly awesome. Loved it and I plan to book for the Folk / Steak Night in September (if there are still spaces available).
· via Google
I had a very nice experience with Maid of the Forth during my Scotland trip. The cruise was peaceful, enjoyable, and a great way to see the beauty of the Firth of Forth from the water. The views were really beautiful, especially the bridges, the island scenery, and the calm sea atmosphere. The trip gave a different experience compared to normal city sightseeing. It was relaxing and suitable for families, tourists, and anyone who wants to enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty and history. The commentary during the journey was also useful, as it helped us understand more about the places, islands, and historical background connected to the area. The boat was comfortable, and the overall arrangement was good. It was nice to spend time outside, take photos, enjoy the fresh air, and see the surroundings from a different angle. The cruise felt safe and well managed. I am giving 4 stars because the experience was very good, but I feel a little more improvement in guidance, seating comfort, or visitor arrangements could make it even better. Still, it was a memorable and worthwhile trip. Overall, Maid of the Forth is a very good cruise experience and I would recommend it to anyone visiting Scotland, especially for a peaceful family outing and beautiful views.
· via Google
A lovely trip today, even though the weather was not great. Very helpful, polite staff. Very nice to get 20% discount with Bluelight card. Recommend this as an informative fun activity. Thanks 😊
· via Google
Fantastic afternoon trip from South Queensferry to Inchcolm island with Maid of the Forth. Really nice boat, with a wee bar on board, comfortable seating inside and out, and excellent informative commentary too. The island is worth an explore, especially on a sunny day! Easy booking and picking up tickets etc. Staff all very friendly too.
· via Google
Visitors say this boat trip offers stunning views of the Forth Bridges and local wildlife, with the option to explore Inchcolm Island and its historic abbey. They also highlight the informative commentary and the comfortable boat, which features a bar and clean restrooms. Guests mention the staff are friendly and helpful, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Hawes Pier, Newhalls Road, South Queensferry, EH30 9TB Get directions
- Category
- Boat Tours & Cruises
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (1,449 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor & outdoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Edinburgh