Portrush Sea Tours

Portrush Harbour, North Pier, Portrush, UK
1-90 Years
Paid

Description

Portrush Sea Tours offers an exhilarating way to see the stunning Causeway Coast from a completely different perspective. If you are looking for the best things to do with kids in Portrush, this boat tour activity category provides a mix of high-speed thrills and educational wildlife spotting. The tours depart directly from the historic Portrush Harbour, taking families on a journey to see famous landmarks like Dunluce Castle and the Giant’s Causeway from the water.

The cost for these adventures is designed to be accessible for families exploring Northern Ireland. Prices start from £25.00 for a standard one-hour sightseeing trip, with various options for longer excursions or private charters. It is a great value option for those wanting to pack multiple sights into a single, memorable morning or afternoon.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines fresh sea air with local history, this is it. The tours are led by experienced local skippers who share fascinating stories about the coastline, making it more than just a boat ride. It is an ideal way to escape the crowds on land and enjoy a unique coastal adventure.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

Experience Features

  • Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for seals, porpoises, and various seabirds in their natural habitat during an educational day out.
  • High-Speed RIBs: Experience the thrill of "Storm" or "Spirit," the high-speed Rigid Inflatable Boats that offer a stable yet exciting ride.
  • Coastal Storytelling: Every trip includes live commentary from the skipper, providing interactive exhibits of local history and folklore.
  • Photography Opportunities: Get closer to the cliffs and caves than any land-based tour, perfect for capturing the Causeway Coast.

What makes Portrush Sea Tours unique?

  • The Giant’s Causeway from the Sea: While most people walk on the stones, seeing the hexagonal columns from the water allows you to appreciate the full scale of this geological wonder.
  • Dunluce Castle Views: Approaching this cliffside ruin from the sea is a highlight for children who love tales of knights and ancient fortresses.
  • The Skerries Adventure: These small islands just off the coast are home to a variety of marine life, and the boat gets close enough for kids to see the birds nesting on the rocks.
  • River Bann Exploration: Some tours head inland up the River Bann, offering a calmer, scenic route that focuses on the peaceful landscapes of the Estuary.
  • Deep Sea Fishing: For older kids, the fishing trips provide a hands-on introduction to the sea, where they can try to catch their own dinner.

Specific Tours & Routes

  • Causeway Coast Tour: A 2-hour trip covering the Skerries, Dunluce, and the Giant's Causeway.
  • Skerries Sightseeing: A shorter 1-hour "taster" tour perfect for younger children.
  • River Bann Tour: A calmer inland route exploring the historic estuary.
  • Deep Sea Fishing Trips: 3-hour sessions focused on catching mackerel and pollock.
  • Private Charters: Customised trips for large family groups or special occasions.

Beyond the Main Attraction

  • Portrush Harbour: Explore the traditional fishing boats and enjoy an ice cream on the quay.
  • Curry's Fun Park: Located within walking distance for more traditional seaside fun after your boat trip.
  • Whiterocks Beach: A short drive or walk away for sandcastle building and surfing.

Facilities

  • Safety Gear: Life jackets are provided for all passengers and are mandatory for the duration of the trip.
  • Storage: Limited storage for small bags is available on the boat, but it is best to travel light.
  • Toilets: There are no toilets on the boats; however, public facilities are available at Portrush Harbour before you board.
  • Clothing: Waterproof coats can often be provided, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own warm layers.

What to see

What Visitors Love

  • The skippers are incredibly knowledgeable and great at keeping children entertained with local stories.
  • The excitement of the high-speed sections is balanced well with slow-moving wildlife spotting.
  • The views of the Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle are vastly superior to the views from the land.
  • Value for money is considered high given the unique nature of the experience.

What Visitors Don't Like

  • The tours can be cancelled at short notice due to rough sea conditions, which can be disappointing for kids.
  • You are likely to get some sea spray, so those who dislike getting slightly wet may find it uncomfortable.
  • Wait times at the harbour can occasionally occur if the previous tour is delayed by wildlife sightings.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is it worth it for toddlers?: While children as young as 4 are welcome, it is best for toddlers who are comfortable with noise and movement. The one-hour Skerries tour is the best option for younger children as it stays closer to the shore and is shorter in duration.
  • How long does a visit take?: The tours themselves last between 1 and 2 hours, but you should factor in 30 minutes for check-in and safety briefings. Most families spend about 2.5 hours at the harbour in total.
  • Where is the best place to park?: The Lansdowne Crescent car park is the most convenient as it is located directly above the harbour. It uses a pay-and-display system and offers plenty of spaces, though it fills up quickly on sunny weekends.

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

  • 1-Hour Sightseeing (Adult): £25.00
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing (Child): £20.00
  • 2-Hour Causeway Tour (Adult): £40.00
  • 2-Hour Causeway Tour (Child): £30.00
  • Deep Sea Fishing (Per Person): £45.00 (includes gear hire)
  • Private Charter (Whole Boat): From £250.00 per hour

Pricing URL: http://www.portrushseatours.com/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • April to October: Daily from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (Tours are scheduled based on demand and weather).
  • Winter Months: Limited weekend service and private charters only.

Address: Portrush Harbour, North Pier, Portrush, UK

Post Code: BT56 8DF

Council: Causeway Coast and G

County: County Antrim

  • By Car: Follow signs for Portrush Town Centre and then "The Harbour." There is a large pay-and-display car park right at the harbour (Lansdowne Crescent).
  • By Train: Portrush Train Station is a 10-minute walk from the harbour with regular services from Belfast and Coleraine.
  • By Bus: The 140 Causeway Rambler stops frequently near the harbour during the summer months.

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