Head offshore to the remote RSPB Nature Reserve of Grassholm.
One of the world’s largest Gannets colonies and home to thousands of seabirds.
Our 3-hour Grassholm Seabird Spectacular
boat trip is one of our most popular
Our Grassholm Seabird Spectacular boat trip is one of our most popular. We operate trips from May, until Mid September, multiple times per week, and is 3 hours is duration. This trip is run on our Blue Shark vessel, which is a fantastic vessel for heading further offshore, allowing passengers to move freely and get close to all the incredible wildlife we see along the way.
We set off from St Justinians lifeboat station, and begin our journey offshore to the RSPB Island of Grassholm, one of the largest Gannet colonies in the world, with thousands of breeding Gannets.
Grassholm Island was established in 1948, and was the first RSPB island in Wales. There is no public landing on the Island.
As we head offshore we pass Ramsey Island, with Skomer Island seen in the distance. This 10 mile trip out to the island, allows us opportunities to come across some incredible bird and marine life.
Common Dolphin, Porpoise and even Risso Dolphin are seen regularly on our way out to Grassholm, so keep an eye out. Manx shearwaters, and Puffins are also spotted out towards the island feeding.
As we approach the white coloured island you will be greeted by a distinct, strong smell of gannett guano, followed by the spectacular sight of thousands of diving gannets.
The Gannets steal the show with their explosive diving, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph. They also boast an impressive six-foot long wingspan, which can be seen whilst they hover above.
As we make our way around the island, we come across Atlantic Grey Seals, hauled out on the rocks at low tide. The island is also home to small numbers of Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Fulmars.
Our experienced guides will also onboard to answer any questions regarding the island, the surrounding wildlife and its history, with some fascinating tales to tell along the way,
Our offshore trip is the perfect opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to spend a longer period out at sea, and offers up the chance to come across some incredible marine and bird life sightings.
This boat trip departs daily – 0900 & Seasonal afternoon sailings
Duration 3 hours
Adults £70
Child £45 (8-13 yrs)
How long does it take to get to Grassholm Island? +
The journey out to Grassholm takes approximately 50 Minutes. If we come across a pod of friendly Dolphins on the way out to Grassholm, we will spend some time with them, before continuing back on our journey to the Island.
Can you land on Grassholm island? +
No, passengers can not land onto the island, there is a strict no landing policy. However, you can land on Ramsey Island.
What age is this trip suitable for? +
We have a minimum age of 8 years old for this trip. Our Grassholm trip is a 3 hour round trip, offshore, where conditions can change quickly, so we need to ensure all passengers are able to look after themselves if need be.
Whats the best time of year to see the gannets? +
The best time of year to see the Gannets out towards Grassholm is from May, until September. During this period we will come across tens of thousands diving offshore.
Are we likely to see Dolphins and Whales out towards Grassholm Island? +
There is always a chance of seeing Dolphins and even Whales on this trip. As we head towards Grassholm we often pick up with pods of playful Common Dolphin, who quickly steel the show.
Do you have a toilet onboard the vessel? +
Yes, we do have a toilet on board this vessel. We always recommend passengers visit the toilets prior to sailing, at St Justinians, but if nature calls, then we have one available.