Adventure Collective
Wild Cat Island Cruise at Coniston Launch in Cumbria - Ambleside

Wild Cat Island Cruise at Coniston Launch in Cumbria

Conistoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour

Fitness Level

Minimal physical activity required; suitable for all ages

Overview

Discover the magic of Coniston Water with a flexible boat cruise around Wild Cat Island. Whether hopping off to visit Ruskin’s former home or soaking in views, this experience offers a charming blend of adventure and relaxation in England’s Lake District.

Boat Tour
Sailing
Coniston, England

Wild Cat Island Cruise (Yellow Route) Hop on & Hop off

For all ages! • 60 mins • Great for groups! • Hop on & Hop off

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 60-minute cruise around the stunning lake, exploring the iconic Wild Cat Island from the 'Swallows and Amazons' films. Enjoy the flexibility of hopping on and off at various jetties, including a visit to Brantwood, John Ruskin's former home, for a memorable day of adventure.

Enjoy a 60 minute cruise and discover Wild Cat Island as seen in the Swallows and Amazons films.

*** SPECIAL OFFER - 15% OFF FOR ONLINE BOOKINGS ***

Duration

Full cruise is 1 hour but feel free to hop off at the different jetties

About

Wild Cat Island Cruise! See nearly all of the lake in 60 minutes. Discover 'Wild Cat Island' as seen in the 1970s film ‘Swallows and Amazons'. A Yellow Route around the lake ticket will also allow you to hop on and off the boat for the whole day, either on the the Yellow or Red Route.

Prices

Adult: £19.50 reduced to £16.58 Child (5-15yrs): £9.00 reduced to £7.65 Under 5s free

More info

The yellow route departs from Coniston Boat Landings and stops at Torver, Sunny Bank, Brantwood, and returns to Coniston. The whole cruise route is approximately 7 miles long.

Day Fares: A yellow route around the lake ticket will allow you to hop on and off the boat for the whole day, on either of the yellow or red routes.

There is an option to break your journey at Brantwood, the former home of John Ruskin, poet, artist and social reformer. Visit the house, garden, craft gallery and Brantwood Café, with tables overlooking the lake. Return to Coniston on a later sailing. Discounted Brantwood house tickets are available at checkout. Your house tickets will be handed to you on the boat on the day.

The Launches pick up from Brantwood roughly once per hour. Return times 10.50, 12.10, 1.20, 3.00 and 4.10.

Friendly dogs are welcome!

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Peak Light

Get on the water early in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds, perfect for photos.

Wear Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Layers and rain gear are recommended, as weather on the lake can change quickly.

Bring Binoculars

Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities with binoculars, especially for birdwatching.

Check the Schedule in Advance

Confirm the hop-on, hop-off timetable to plan your visit around visits to Brantwood or Wild Cat Island.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Herons
  • Ospreys

History

Coniston Water has hosted many historic boat races and inspired countless artists drawn to its rugged beauty.

Conservation

The boat company actively promotes eco-friendly practices by reducing emissions and respecting local ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Ambleside

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Weather-appropriate clothing

Essential

Dressing in layers keeps you comfortable as weather can vary throughout the year.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Capture scenic views and wildlife moments during the cruise.

Binoculars

Useful for wildlife viewing along the shoreline and in the trees.

Rain Gear

Be prepared for unexpected showers, especially outside summer months.

spring|fall|winter specific