Wildlife Excursions

Scow's, St Margarets's Hope, Orkney, KW17 2TQ

Join us for Wildlife Excursions aboard our boat Boy Ryan, departing from St Margaret’s Hope. Experience the rich wildlife and stunning scenery of Orkney on a morning or afternoon trip, scheduled according to the tides for the best possible experience.

Step aboard Boy Ryan for a relaxed and immersive wildlife experience shaped by Orkney’s sea, seasons, and stories. Each trip is unhurried and personal, giving guests the chance to encounter seals, porpoises, seabirds, and—when conditions align— orcas moving through local waters. Every outing reflects the real Orkney: its wildlife, its people, and its traditions.

What guests can enjoy onboard

Hospitality is a central part of the journey, with a warm and welcoming selection of food and drinks available throughout the trip. All food and drinks are charged additionally onboard. Guests can enjoy:

Hot and cold drinks

Mince rolls

Toasties

Homemade soup

A small, carefully chosen selection of drinks to accompany the experience.

For guests wishing to elevate their trip, the A Taste of Island Life experience can be pre‑booked. This includes BBQ scallops and lobster cooked onboard, served with wine and accompanied by local Orkney produce such as bere bannocks, Orkney cheese, and oatcakes. It’s a true from‑the‑sea‑to‑your‑plate experience — fresh, simple, and enjoyed in the very environment it comes from, offering something no restaurant can replicate.(£40pp)

The experience

Each excursion blends wildlife, scenery, and genuine island hospitality. Whether guests are here for the wildlife, the food, or simply the peace of being on the water, the experience is crafted to feel warm, memorable, and authentically Orkney.

Another Great Offer for Our Passengers!

We’re excited to offer passengers an exclusive overnight stay onboard for £75 per person (minimum 2 guests). After your wildlife excursion, you can unwind in the hot tub, fire up the BBQ, or head ashore to explore local dining — a perfect way to end your day in Orkney.

If there is a 09:00 departure the following morning, an 08:30 checkout is required so we can prepare the vessel for the trip. If there is no early sailing, checkout is by 10:00.

This rate applies to evening stays only and does not include 24‑hour access.

You'll find this on our "Home Screen" under "Overnight Stay – Special Passenger Rate"