Board a custom RIB from Invergordon and scan the Cromarty and Inner Moray Firths for dolphins, porpoise, seals and nesting seabirds. Local guides deliver natural history, wartime context and practical spotting tips on this 2.5‑hour wildlife cruise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The wind tugs at your jacket as the RIB slips out from Invergordon’s West Harbour; sea spray dots the air and the Cromarty Firth opens up like a living map. Guides prep waterproofs and lifejackets, their voices cutting through the motor hum to point out rigs, wartime fortifications and the pale cliffs where seabirds wheel and shriek. Dolphins often braid through the bow wake; porpoises flicker at the surface like quicksilver.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Requires a moderate level of fitness: ability to step down from a pontoon, stand for extended periods, and maintain balance on a moving deck.
Wildlife
History
The Cromarty and Inner Moray Firths played strategic naval roles in both World Wars; visible fortifications and the HMS Natal grave mark this maritime history.
Conservation
Operators follow marine wildlife codes of conduct to minimise disturbance; passengers should avoid flash photography and keep voices low during sightings.
Reserve your spot on the Wildlife Watching Boat Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for spray and wind
Full waterproofs and warm mid‑layers keep you comfortable; the operator provides waterproofs but bring a warm base layer of your own.
Wear flat, non‑slip shoes
Stable, grip soles help when stepping from pontoon to RIB and when standing on deck.
Bring compact binoculars
Binoculars improve distant sightings of dolphins, whales and cliff‑nesting seabirds.
Mind the timetable
Book morning departures in spring/summer for calmer seas and better bird activity; trips run in light rain but cancel for unsafe conditions.
Waterproof jacket and pants
Protects from spray and driving rain common in spring crossings.
spring
Warm mid‑layer (fleece)
Keeps body temperature stable on cool, windy summer mornings.
summer
Sturdy, flat‑soled shoes
Non‑slip footwear helps with boarding and moving on deck.
Compact binoculars
Small field binoculars bring distant mammals and seabird colonies into view.