Booking your boat trip to the Farne Islands
To land on Inner Farne or Longstone, or to sail around the Farne Islands, you need to catch a boat from Seahouses harbour. It's recommended that you book your boat trip in advance. Read on to find out how to book and what to expect from your tour. Please note, Inner Farne is now closed for landing trips until 2025.
How to book
Tickets for your sail around or landing trip can be purchased in advance, or on the day, from one of the boat companies below:
When you arrive
On arrival in Seahouses, please park in one of the council operated pay and display car parks.
Parking can fill up very quickly, so do allow yourself plenty of time to park before your booking. There is a short walk to the harbour. Once there, please also pop into the National Trust trailer to purchase your landing ticket or show your National Trust membership card.
What to wear
It can feel much colder just offshore than on the mainland, so do pack lots of layers and the essential waterproofs. We recommend that visitors wear sturdy footwear ( wellies or hiking boots are ideal).
Arctic terns do divebomb as a tactic to protect their nests and chicks, so a soft, wide - brimmed, wipeable hat is also highly recommended to protect heads from any tern pecks. Please don't wear hard hats, such as cycle helmets, as these can damage the birds' beaks.
What to bring
You never know what wildlife you may spot while you're here, so be sure to bring your binoculars with you! And if you are lucky enough to sail on a sunny day - remember your suncream.
Facilities
There are some toilet facilities available on Inner Farne. Some of the boats also have a toilet ( check with individual operators) and there are council owned toilets next to the main visitor car park in Seahouses.
Dogs
Due to the very sensitive nature of the colony, dogs, including assistance dogs, are not allowed onto the islands.
Some boat operators allow dogs to remain on the boat whilst their humans visit Inner Farne. Subject to the boat operators discretion, owners may be allowed to remain on the boat with their dogs. All visitors on a landing trip are required to obtain a stamped ticket from the National Trust trailer on Seahouses Harbour before they sail, please note that visitors are not able to land on Inner Farne without one. Please contact the individual boat operators for more information about their dog policy.
You might also be interested in
Our guide to puffins
Every year, thousands of puffins come to the places in our care to breed. Find out more about what they eat, when they breed and the best time to see them up close.
Things to see on the Farne Islands
Find out what you might see when you take a boat trip to the Farne Islands, from wildlife such as puffins and grey seals, to centuries-old buildings including St Cuthbert's Chapel.
Seals on the Farne Islands
Learn about the grey seal colony on the Farnes, as well as other seals that call the Islands home.
Our work on the Farne Islands
Find out more about how we care for Farne Islands in Northumberland, from repairing the boardwalks to surveying seals and ringing birds to track their movements.
Shopping on the Farne Islands
Whether you're looking for a souvenir to take home or a present for a loved one, make sure you stop by the shop in the centre of Seahouses. The shelves are bursting with gifts. Find colourful throws made from upcycled wool, home accessories inspired by nature, colourful handmade jewellery and prints by local artists. There are books for all ages and toys inspired by the great outdoors too.