Edinburgh is a fantastic starting point for exploring Scotland’s spectacular waterways and coastlines. While the city itself is famous for its historic streets and castles, its surrounding waters reveal different sides of Scotland—ranging from the mysterious depths of Loch Ness to the rugged beauty of Inchcolm Island. What makes these cruise and boat tours especially appealing is the combination of comfort, storytelling, and unique vantage points that land-based tours simply can’t match. One standout is the Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands tour, which offers a comprehensive day trip with scenic walks and whisky tastings. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an all-in-one Highland experience without the hassle of driving.
While many visitors enjoy exploring on land, taking a boat or cruise tour from Edinburgh opens a different perspective—focusing on Scotland’s lakes, rivers, and coastlines from the water. Whether it’s a half-day jaunt or a full-day adventure, these tours combine scenic beauty with cultural highlights. Below, you’ll find a selection of the best options, each offering something special for different types of travelers.
1. Loch Ness Cruise, Scenic Walk, Whisky & Glencoe Tour – Edinburgh
At number one on our list is this full-day tour across the Scottish Highlands, which includes a scenic drive, a walk through the Hermitage woodlands, a Highland whisky distillery visit, and a boat cruise on Loch Ness. Priced at around $89.72 per person and rated a perfect 5.0 based on 93 reviews, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Highland experience without managing any logistics themselves.
What sets this apart is the well-organized itinerary that covers all the highlights in one day. You’ll start in Edinburgh and cross the impressive Queensferry Crossing before heading into Cairngorms National Park. The walk at The Hermitage offers a peaceful break amid waterfalls and ancient trees, while the Dalwhinnie Distillery visit lets you sample authentic Scotch. The Loch Ness leg is particularly memorable—travelers often comment on the stunning views and the chance to spot mythical creatures or just enjoy the vast waters. The small-group format (limit of 8) ensures a more personal experience, and the driver-guide shares engaging stories about Scottish legends and history.
Bottom line: This tour blends scenery, culture, and storytelling into a single day, making it perfect for first-timers or those short on time wanting a taste of the Highlands.
2. Boat trip and guided tour to Inchcolm Island
At number two, this half-day boat tour combines a scenic river trip with a guided exploration of Inchcolm Island, famous for its 12th-century abbey. Priced at $40 per person and with a 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews, this experience is excellent for history lovers and those wanting a relaxed, nature-infused outing.
The tour begins with a short train ride from Edinburgh to South Queensferry, where you board a boat for a 30-minute journey across the Firth of Forth. Once on Inchcolm Island, your guide will lead you through the ruins of the medieval abbey, sharing stories of the island’s naval history and its role in Scottish defenses. The island’s wildlife—puffins, seals, and seabirds—is also a highlight, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. The return trip offers stunning views of Edinburgh’s skyline and the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guests love how smoothly the day flows, with plenty of time to explore on your own after the guided part. The combination of water scenery, historic ruins, and local wildlife makes this a well-rounded introduction to Fife’s coastal charm.
Bottom line: Perfect for a half-day escape from the city that combines history, nature, and beautiful river views—especially good for families or those with limited time.
3. Edinburgh: Fish ’n’ Chip Cruise
The third spot on our list is a unique 1.5-hour cruise along the Firth of Forth, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Fish ’n’ Chips supper while taking in the views of the Forth Bridge. Priced per availability, this cruise promises a relaxed, tasty way to see one of Edinburgh’s most iconic sights.
Onboard, you’ll be served a fresh, locally made Fish ’n’ Chips, making it a true Scottish culinary experience. As you cruise under the Three Bridges—an engineering marvel and UNESCO World Heritage site—you’ll have plenty of opportunities for photos. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep an eye out for seals, puffins, and other seabirds that frequent the waters.
This cruise is ideal for foodies or those wanting a more casual, fun experience. It’s less about extensive sightseeing and more about enjoying a traditional meal with a view. Guests comment on how the seating is comfortable, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite for families or couples seeking a laid-back activity.
Bottom line: For a fun, food-focused outing that combines good eats with scenic views of Edinburgh’s coastline, this cruise is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Perfect Edinburgh Boat & Cruise Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a full-day Highland adventure, the Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands tour delivers a rich mix of scenery and culture. For those interested in history and wildlife with a shorter commitment, the Inchcolm Island boat tour offers a relaxed half-day exploring Scottish maritime history. If you’re after a fun, casual experience with great photo opportunities and a taste of local cuisine, the Fish ’n’ Chips Cruise provides a memorable, tasty outing.
When booking, consider the time of year, as some tours operate seasonally, and think about your preferred pace—whether you want an all-encompassing Highland day or a laid-back afternoon near Edinburgh. Always check the latest availability and book early for popular tours, especially in summer.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh offers a surprising variety of cruises and boat tours that highlight Scotland’s natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. For travelers eager to explore the Highlands with minimal hassle, the Loch Ness tour is a standout. History buffs and wildlife lovers will enjoy Inchcolm Island, while those after a relaxing, fun meal on the water will appreciate the Fish ’n’ Chip cruise.
For different interests and schedules, all three tours provide excellent value and memorable experiences. If you’re planning your trip, consider which aspect of Scotland appeals most—whether it’s the legendary lochs, historic islands, or scenic coastlines—and book early to secure your spot. Scotland’s waterways are waiting to show you their best side.