Discover the Magic of Puffins and Seals with Billy Shiel Farne Island Boats

From April to the end of July, something remarkable happens just off the Northumberland coast. The Farne Islands come alive with the sights and sounds of puffins returning to nest. At Billy Shiel Farne Island Boats Limited, we invite you to witness this natural wonder up close on our unforgettable Puffin Trips.

As spring unfolds, puffins begin to return to the islands after months at sea. By mid-April, their numbers grow as they settle into their nesting burrows, offering visitors an incredible opportunity to see these colourful, charismatic birds in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a keen wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day out, this trip offers a front-row seat to one of the UK’s best seabird spectacles.

Our cruise isn’t just about puffins. The Farne Islands are also home to one of the largest Grey Seal colonies in the country. With around three to four thousand seals living around the islands, the sight of them basking on the rocks, especially during low tide, is something you won’t forget. Every year, over a thousand pups are born in the autumn and winter, making the colony one of the most vibrant and thriving in the UK.

While nature takes centre stage, there’s also a moment of history to explore. As we sail, your Skipper will guide you along the same route taken by Grace Darling and her father during their heroic rescue in 1838. This powerful story adds another layer of meaning to your journey and brings the spirit of the sea to life in a truly memorable way.

Our Farne Island Puffin Trip is more than a boat tour, it’s a close encounter with the wild beauty of the North Sea, a lesson in history, and a rare chance to witness two iconic species thriving in their natural environment.

Trips operate daily, weather permitting, throughout the puffin nesting season from April to the end of July. Puffins start leaving the islands around early August, so don’t miss your chance to see them.

Book your Farne Island Puffin Trip with Billy Shiel Farne Island Boats Limited today and experience the unforgettable. Adventure, wildlife and history all await you on the open sea.