fingal's cave boat tour

How to visit Fingal's Cave and why you need to

The Hebridean island of Staffa may be tiny – it’s only half a mile long by a quarter of a mile wide and completely uninhabited – but it packs a big cultural punch. This dot on the map six miles west of Mull and a similar distance north of Iona has inspired musicians, artists, writers and storytellers throughout history. Staffa made a huge impression on the likes of composer Mendelssohn, artist JMW Turner, poets Wordsworth and Keats, not to mention Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. And this is down to its remarkable geological features.

Visiting the Isle of Staffa

When you visit Staffa, you can’t fail to be awestruck by nature’s creative forces. Impossibly dramatic and romantic, Staffa is best known for its basalt columns and spectacular sea caves. The most famous of these is Fingal’s Cave, also known in Gaelic as An Uamh Binn or the Cave of Music, immortalised by Mendelssohn in his Hebrides Overture. The cave is comprised entirely of spectacular hexagonal basalt columns similar to those found at the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

Staffa is a volcanic island and the basalt columns formed when a single lava flow cooled around 60 million years ago. As the molten rock solidified it also shrank, allowing gaps to form which created the hexagonal shaped columns seen today. In addition to the cave, the columns form a dramatic cliff face which appear as colonnades or, as the Vikings saw them, the poles or staves (stafr in Old Norse) used in their buildings, hence the name Staffa. The columns are canted over at an angle of four degrees and it was this tilting that happened after they were formed which allowed the sea to exploit natural fissures in the rock, hollowing out the cave over the millenia. Other caves on the island formed in a different way, when a softer layer of ash under the basalt columns was eroded by the sea.

Fingal's Cave, Isle of Staffa

Why is Fingal's Cave so unique?

What makes Fingal’s Cave so special is its size, uniformity and the fact that, due to a fluke of nature, there is a natural walkway which allows visitors to get right inside at low tide. It was the famous botanist, Joseph Banks, who, in 1772, first brought the feature to popular attention. Since then a steady stream of visitors, including a list of famous names from the arts, have made a sort of pilgrimage to this ‘cathedral of the sea’. Among those great artists was a young Felix Mendelssohn who visited the cave in 1829. Duly inspired, Mendelssohn wrote the concert overture Die Hebriden, also known simply as Fingal’s Cave which he finished in 1832. Coincidentally, JMW Turner’s painting “Staffa” was also first exhibited in the spring of the same year. Today, Mendelssohn on Mull, a Scottish chamber music festival, continues to draws inspiration from Staffa. The event brings together young musicians for a week of musical exploration and concerts inspired by the wild beauty of Staffa, Mull and Iona.

Staffa's hexagonal shaped columns © Turus Mara

How to get to Fingals Cave

West Coast Tours based in Oban enables you to discover three beautiful Inner Hebridean islands including the beauty of Staffa and the awe inspiring Fingal's Cave.

A number of boat operators in Oban offer trips from the mainland to Staffa, including Seafari Adventures . It makes sense to combine a visit to Staffa with trips to its equally enthralling but quite different neighbours Mull and Iona . Boat trips run from Oban, Mull and Iona to Staffa. Staffa Tours operates daily boat tours from Fionnphort on Mull, Staffa Trips operates from Iona.

If you’re feeling adventurous, how about a wild swim in Fingal’s Cave? Basking Shark Scotland offers a bespoke ‘Swim Fingal’s Cave’ tour, where you can swim or snorkel into the cave. Floating in the mouth of the cave, it’s stunning to look straight up the basalt pillars and rock formations then dip your head under water and see the colonies of marine life. You can also kayak into the cave.

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Fingal's Cave (Staffa)

Take this fantastic trip with us to explore the one of a kind Fingal's Cave and enjoy breath taking views and beautiful wildlife.

This three hour cruise takes you South East from Tiree across the passage of Tiree and passed the iconic Dutchman’s cap. Out on the open waters, you’re bound to experience an adrenaline rush, as your Skipper revs the engine and takes you on a thrilling high speed journey to view from the water the unique sight of this amazing hexagonal jointed basalt columns which create the natural wonder- known as Fingal’s Cave. Subject to swell conditions – step ashore and spend an hour on Staffa. Inside this natural cathedral, close your eyes and you can even hear Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture

From £50 per adult

Departure days.

W Wednesday

March — October

Contact details

+44 (77888) 10623
View tour details
[email protected]

Tour information

½ Day

Small Group (1-16)

Tour prices

From £50 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour company information

Tiree sea tours.

We are a small family run business located on the Isle of Tiree, we offer daily boat trips to some of the most amazing places in the west coast of Scotland from the puffins on Lunga to the majestic Skerryvore Lighthouse. Fly direct from Glasgow to experience a truly unforgettable day trip. Tailormade trips for up to 12 passengers on each of our 2 boats, including shark fishing and private dive charters. Our booking office and gift shop located at Tiree Airport offers car hire and a range of local gifts and food products. Check our website and facebook page for regular updates. We look for

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Opening times

Boat trips leave at various times please contact us Booking office, shop& car hire Mon-Fri 9am-1pm & 4pm-6pm Sat 9am-1pm

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Ultimate Guide to Fingal’s Cave (Scotland) (Tours, Pricing, History)

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One of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, Fingal’s Cave is a massive sea cave that was discovered by accident. The crystal clear water inside creates amazing reflections and beautiful colors on the walls of this natural wonder.

It is located near Staffa Island off the coast of Mull, which means it is accessible to tourists who are traveling around Scotland. This guide will give an overview of Fingal’s Cave with information about tours, pricing, and history to help you decide if it would be worth visiting!

Fingal’s cave was formed uniquely and also has a unique shape. Seeing it is on an uninhabited island, the rock formation on it was constantly bashed by the water (waves) until the opening of the cave we now see was formed . The island was not a popular region, and only after Banks discovered it that way, it brought to the attention of those who were enthused by research and nature.

Fingal’s Cave is found in Staffa, an uninhabited island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The cave is owned by Scotland’s National Trust and categorized as a national nature reserve.

Fingal’s Cave is a sea cave located on the uninhabited island of Staffa, in Argyll and Bute. It was formed as molten lava from an ancient volcano cooled into solid rock that later eroded away leaving this natural wonder. This location has become popular because it holds similarities to what some believe are seen on Asteroid Yavin IV, which is home to Luke Skywalker’s Jedi Academy where he trains with other students before going off to fight in Episode IV: Star Wars – A New Hope.

History of Fingal’s Cave

Fingal’s Cave was discovered in 1772 by a British Navy ship called the HMS Fowey, which had stopped at Staffa to get fresh water. The sailors were exploring around when they stumbled across this beautiful cavern that is just under 100 feet long and 30 feet high.

The cave got its name after its connection with the legendary 18th-century Scots poet-historian James Macpherson. It was originally brought to light in the English-speaking world in 1772 by naturalist/botanist Sir Joseph Banks.

Interestingly, the name Fingal means white stranger and is associated with the poetic history of the earlier centuries. However, it has many myths surrounding the same name as back in 250 AD Finn Mac Cumhaill, or Fingal, was an Irish general.

He had many band warriors with him who were pretty faithful, and with his many contributions to Scotland after returning to the land, they thought it necessary to name a lot of land after him.

Fingal’s Cave Fun Facts

Tourists can visit Fingal’s Cave by boat, or once they are on the island, they can easily access it via foot.
The cave sits on an uninhabited island in Scotland that has a deep connection to the sea.
Fingal’s Cave has a rich connection with art and literature as it has appeared in many literary pieces of history.
It is one of the most intriguing sea caves found in the world .
The cave is made from lots of basalt columns originally caused by the past’s volcanic actions.
The cave is said to be approximately 66 to 75 feet deep and roughly 279 feet long. The widest portion of the cave is said to be around 40 feet wide.

link to article on white nose disease in bats

Fingal’s Cave Wildlife

Being a sea cave, it is a little different than what you might be used to. Fingal’s Cave is home to sea urchins, starfish, and other marine life that live on the shore but there is so. much. more.

Visiting Fingal’s Cave, you may come across wildlife such as puffins, common shags, black-legged kittiwakes, and gulls. There is also marine wildlife in the region, such as dolphins, sharks, pilot whales, minke, and grey seals. Researchers noted they spotted three red deer on the island back in earlier times, which was later replaced by goats and then by cattle.

Interestingly, through the years, the summer saw the island being a grazing field for animals, but after 1997, this practice was stopped to facilitate the vegetation of the land growing back. Of course, they are protected animals and can lead to problems if you harm them.

Fingal’s Cave Geological Formations

Fingal’s Cave is formed uniquely with an arched entrance that is filled by the sea. As we have mentioned already, the formation of this cave came from volcanic actions cooling off and forming the vertical formation of the rocks.

The cave is a little different from many others as it relates to stalactites and stalagmites. The seawater flows through the cave, and as such, the base of the cave is mainly water, but there are rocks on which visitors can move around. However, there are different formations in the rocks found in the cave.

You will see the hexagonally jointed basalt columns within that Paleocene lava flow.

Download our FREE Fingal’s Cave Guide (Unofficial)

Fingal’s cave tours.

Getting to the small island is not as hard as many people would believe, as there are numerous boat rides offered by locals, which can get you to the cave to explore a part of nature’s best. In general, most boat rides are done from Mull of Iona and take roughly 45 minutes to get there. You can also purchase your tickets through Staffa Tours who offers daily boat rides. The rides vary, and contacting the tour teams will help determine which option is best for you.

However, you have to be mindful that due to the preservation of the eroding rocks, there might be some limitations on tours. Therefore, getting the full information is important before booking your tours.

Here is a tour we found for 45 Euro that runs only from Early August to late September.

Arriving at Staffa you will enjoy a landing visit upon the island, where you can spend up to 1hr15mins to explore and venture into the world-famous Fingal’s Cave, nowhere else is there a sea cave formed completely in hexagonally jointed basalt. Its appeal lies in the size, the sounds, the colours, and the remarkable symmetry of this 227 foot cavern. Along the way there is the opportunity, not only to learn of the landmarks, but to search for wildlife encounters with the Common Bottlenose Dolphins present to the waters year round, as well as Basking Sharks and Minke Whales that can still be sighted until they migrate to warmer waters come October. The trip offers ample time to go in search of the wonderful wildlife that shares home with us; including the magnificent White-tailed Sea Eagle and Golden Eagle. StaffaTours

Fingal’s Cave Prices and Discounts

The pricing for tours to Staffa Island depends on which location you are coming from and the amenities you desire to have on your rides. Bear in mind, if you are on another island, the price for the cruise or boat rides across may vary, and it is best to speak with your booking agency on the different packages available.

Where to Stay Near Fingal’s Cave

So, where should you stay when in the area? Here are some of the coolest spots to stick around as you await the glorious tours of a land like no other…

Perle Oban Hotel

Located at Station Square, Oban PA34 Scotland, you are in for a treat and an experience like no other. The hotel features a Victorian charm and modern style with a touch of local cuisine and a beautiful environment. They boast one of the most comfortable lodging areas that creates a scenic view. It provides a serene environment that caters to your relaxation needs and creates an environment your children will be free to explore. The rooms are designed to give some amazing views, from ocean views to city views. Give them a call today, and you will have no regrets.

Old Library Lodge and Restaurant

Old Library Lodge and Restaurant is located Road to the Isles, Arisaig PH39 4NH Scotland, and is a family-operated restaurant and lounge. It features six bedrooms that provide you with a sea-view experience and an amazing backdrop of the Isles of Eigg, Rum, and Skye. You will love everything about this quiet nature-infused spot as it gives the feeling of home. Interestingly, it is not far from some of the country’s most attractive locations.

Places To Stay Nearby

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Fingal’s Cave Details

Length: 279 Feet Long
Time recommended: 3 Hours
Trail Type:
Difficulty: Moderate
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Accessibility: Boat Ride or Cruise
Fee/Permit: Varies
Hours: Varies

How to Get to Fingal’s Cave

Getting to Fingal’s Cave is quite easy and stress-free, and you will enjoy the ride there no matter the location you are coming from. It is located on an uninhabited island in Scotland that can be reached by boat from another island or by foot if you are already on the island.

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Home > Places > Scotland > Guide to Staffa Island & Fingal’s Cave Tour from Oban, Scotland

June 7, 2023

Active life , earth science , history , mythology , tour , travel.

…this superb monument of nature, which in regard to its form bears so strong a resemblance to a work of art, though art can certainly claim no share in it. – Barthélemy Faujas de Saint-Fond, 1784

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Approaching Staffa Island

Do you ever wonder why people are so fascinated by traveling? I, personally, think it is one of those questions with an answer within it. People love to wonder… People love to wonder what is like in other countries. How people are living over there? How does local food taste like? Are people more beautiful over there? Is life better or worse compared to theirs? One thing of what I love to wonder about is how the landscape changed the life of local culture, and, especially, how it shaped the history.

I cannot help myself, but wonder, how did it look like when the Vikings accidentally hit Staffa island. Imagine bloodthirsty warriors, who put their axes aside just to take the paddles instead, rowing hundreds of miles on a relatively small boat toward a foreign land, to kill or conquer whoever lives other there. It is raining, of course, and the weather is somewhat as you could imagine when the Vikings go to conquer Celtic people in Scotland. The atmosphere is tense, but it only gets louder once they approach Staffa island. To their surprise, or maybe not, what they saw was very similar to the appearance of their homes built out of wooden staves. They named the island staffi-oy (from Old Norse pillar or stave).

The Cathedral of Sea

To human beings thinking more in a symbolic way than we do today, that must have been a sign from the Gods, which, at least, resulted in an extra rally of the troops. I imagine that confidence was the main weapon of these berserker warriors. Thus I wonder what if they didn’t bump into the Island before the battle? Would they still have ended-up as victorious in battle? If not, would there have been an impact on the occupation of Scotland by the Vikings which lasted for seven centuries? All of this could have been because of the right conditions millions of years ago, which formed truly unique rock formations resembling the houses of the Vikings up in the North. What are the odds?

If you still are not amazed by the impact of all the conditions these rocks had to bear to get this surprising geometrical shape, let me remind you that it is the only reason you will ever want to end up in that place of the world. It was definitely the reason I went there. Now let me tell you a bit more about the formation of Staffa Island and all the people who visited the place. Without a doubt, it is among the top destination in Scottish Highlands .

Staffa Island Tour Details

Difficulty: Cruise will be canceled if it is too dangerous
Duration: 2-12h
Starting Point: Oban or Isle of Mull (Ulva Ferry)
Destination: Staffa Island, Inner Hebrides
Tours : Calmac & Turus Mara or StaffaTours
Price: from £35 to £73 (depending on tour and starting point)
Best time to visit: May-July
Accomondation: Oban & Craignure

Map of Staffa Island Tour from Oban

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Facilities in Staffa Island Cruise Tour

As you may expect, Staffa island is uninhabited and almost untouched by the civilization. Except a staircase and life circle, there are not many signs of civilization either. Be sure to get your food for the day in Oban. The tour boat should be able to supply you with the most important needs like water or bathroom.

Possible Tours to Staffa Island from Oban

While the situation might vary from year to year, the show in Oban is run by two competing companies: Staffa Tours and Turus Mara in partnership with CalMac. I don’t want to promote one over another, so it is up to you to decide which one provides a better service. My personal choice was made purely on the route. If I happen to feel like I want more beaches than more rock formations that day, I would have gone with Staffa tours instead of Turus Mara. Hopefully, the following list will be more than enough to find the best tour from Oban for you.

Staffa Tours

Staffa Island Tour (3h | £ 30, €35, $37/person)

Calmac & Turus Mara Tours

Various Tours

Other Companies:

West Coasts Tours
Staffa Trips

From Other Cities:

Scotland: West Highlands, Mull and Iona 4-Day Tour from Edinburgh (4days | £571, €663.46, $709.43 /person)
Isle of Mull and Iona 3-Day Small-Group Tour from Glasgow (3days | £403, €468.26, $500.70 /person)

Staffa Island

If I said that Staffa Island is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the whole Britain, you would probably think that I’m exaggerating just to make this article more interesting, or to attract more readers. I’m not even using my own words to state that, but the will of the British people themselves as some of the polls say. Many people have visited Staffa island, but only a handful was left unsurprised. From Vikings to local Gaels, from many English to foreign tourists, ages after ages this island sprung the imagination of all the visitors.

Tent on Staffa island, Hebrides, Scotland Photo Mantas Ališauskas [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots Am Buchaille (The Herdsman) near Staffa island, Hebrides, Scotland. Photo Mantas Ališauskas [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Though being one of the smallest islands in whole Southern Hebrides, on Google, Staffa gets more attention than the Hebrides itself. Uninhabited, it was once home to as much as 16 people somewhere in the 1700s. Later on, in the 1800s three red deer lived on the island, just to be replaced by goats after whom came herd of black cattle. After many private owners, only in 1986, the island was gifted to the National Trust of Scotland by advertising executive Jock Elliot, who brought Ogilvy from scratch to the biggest advertising company in the whole world after he bought Staffa Island for his wife 60th birthday. Today Staffa island is taken over by tourists and seabirds, most noticeably, puffins.

The Legend of Fingal

The key feature of Staffa Island – Fingal’s Cave – is named after the hero of an epic poem – Fingal – by James Macpherson (1762), the poem is based on ancient Gaelic Legends and foretells an epic story about the King of Northwest Caledonia (The name given by Romans to the territories above of Adrian’s wall, basically, modern Scotland), who comes into the defense of Ireland against fierce Swaran, the King of Lochlin, and Lochlainn forces (Gaelic term for Norse). Unfortunately, Fingal and Caledonians arrived late, the remaining Irish forces were already fleeing. The defenders engaged the enemy and after a hard battle, they defeat the Lochlainn and notoriously forbid them to return to Ireland in a hostile manner ever again.

…Who can meet Swaran in fight? Who but Fingal, king of Selma of storms?… – Fingal: an Ancient Epic Poem

Fingal’s Cave – The Melodious Cave

As nobody will be left unaware of this story during any trip to Staffa Island, Felix Mendelssohn was inspired to write “Hebrides Overture” during his visit to the cave. When the composer was brought to Staffa island, the melodious sound of waves in the Fingal’s Cave left him in awe which is not that surprising. After all, Gaels of Scotland knew the musical features of cave already. The old Gaelic name for Fingal’s Cave is An Uamh Bhin, meaning “the melodious cave”.

Puffin Colony on Staffa Island

Depending on your interests and your tour route, it is possible to have a mini “Puffin therapy” right on the other side of Staffa island to Fingal’s Cave. I know we all want to see and witness all, but if you are on the Treshnish Isles Wildlife tour, just skip the puffins. They are not the reason why this island is so amazing. Instead, embrace the beauty of Fingal’s Cave and unique polygon rock formations. If there is some spare time, climb up the stairs near the docking spot and spend it on the top of the southern side of Staffa, where the gorgeous rock face reveals itself to the endless ocean.

View from the top of Staffa Island, Hebrides, Scotland. Photo Mantas Ališauskas [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots Stairs to the top of Staffa Island, Hebrides, Scotland. Photo Mantas Ališauskas [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

If it is your only chance to see a puffin colony, I could give you this one, but have in mind that despite the absolute amazingness of these charming birds, the geological miracle that Staffa island is, is barely paralleled by anything else around the world.

Puffin Watching Tours

If you are still itching to see the puffins, just go to a tour which includes both Staffa and the Treshnish isles. This will give you 1 hour on this wonder of nature, and 2 hours to meet puffins and their close relatives: razorbills and guillemots. That was my personal choice because both puffins and Staffa are worth your time and the price. I’m just afraid that if it is done at the same time, it is impossible to properly experience either of those. You can read more about my encounter with the birds here .

Is it dangerous in Staffa Island?

As for today in August 2019, Fingal’s Cave is closed due to security reasons. It is a no-brainer, entering the cave is dangerous. As for everything else, like most of the things, it depends on weather conditions, gear, and cautiousness. The top of Staffa island is basically green fields and the rest is made of natural stairs. I wouldn’t go too close to the cave if the waves are hitting it too much, but otherwise, it should be fine if you are wearing shoes with a deep protector. Sometimes, the beauty of the island could be the deadliest thing, it is hard to keep watching every step while there is a surprise after every corner. Take your time, walk carefully, stop, take a picture, repeat. If you’ll stick to these steps, Staffa island will be a pleasant surprise – the natural cathedral of the sea.

Geology of Staffa Island

I could bet that the first question which comes to the mind of a person who saw geological structures like they are on Staffa island would be something like – who the hell built this? And if it is not built by humans or Gods, then by who? For something as geometrical as the pillars found on Staffa, Giant’s Causeway or few other sites, the natural formation seems like an unlikely origin.

How did the Rock Formations of Staffa Island had Formed?

We are used to the more chaotic nature of… the Nature, but it is rather counter-intuitive. The example I like of naturally occurring geometrical shapes I like is the hexagonal form of a honeycomb. This choice of bees might look strange, but the reason for it is not sophisticated.

There are only two geometrical shapes which could join each other together without leaving an empty space: rectangle and hexagon. The latter has a clear advantage over its competitor because hexagon shares its walls with six different hexagons while rectangle only does so with four. Therefore, you need to build fewer walls for the same number of holes, and the overall area of honeycomb is bigger than the one of a hypothetical counterpart made out of rectangles. Hexagon is just a more efficient shape and it happens to be that most of the pillars found on Staffa island are hexagon as well.

Columnar Jointing

So far, we have cleared some clouds behind the mystery, but, still, any of that doesn’t explain why the pillars had to form on the island in the first place. Let’s start simple. Staffa Island is made out of three layers:

The upper layer of tuff;
The middle layer of beautiful pillars made out of basalt;
The lowest one is also made out of basalt but without crystalline structure.

Both tuff and basalt are indigenous rocks, therefore the island is of volcanic origin, and while structures like Staffa remained a mystery for some time. In the late 18th century we learned that the rocks have formed this way as a result of volcanic activity. These days geologists call the phenomenon – columnar jointing. It occurs when lava flow, under the hardened crust, slowly cools at a different pace at different locations. As it dries, the lava contracts until eventually a piece of it cracks from the warmer body of molten rock and forms polygon shapes. Basalt magma fractures between 840-890°C and scientists now know that the slower process is, the bigger polygons are, from which most of them are hexagons. The colonnade of Staffa island was formed in this manner.

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Personal Experience

It is not even worth talking if the Staffa is worth anybody’s attention. Especially, if you find yourself in Oban. The legendary Ruler of the British Empire, Queen Victoria thought it was worth her time. So, who are we to doubt the long-standing beauty of Cathedral of the Sea? The British people themselves voted in 2005 poll, hosted by Radio Times, Staffa island to be the 8th greatest natural wonder in Britain. I could bet that it would rank even higher if it was not so hard to reach. To say the least, I was really impressed by Staffa Island, take it as I don’t have words for it.

I am lucky to live standing on the shoulders of giants in the era of information, where the education of their knowledge could be easily accessed with a small device in my pocket. Thus, once I see a natural wonder like Staffa island, I can find a scientific explanation in the moment of a few breaths. Yet, the awe of seeing a magnificent object take my breath away despite my knowledge. It probably would have been easier to grasp my mind around with an explanation that Staffa island is some kind of divine intervention rather than a chain of certain geological conditions. I can only wonder what it meant to the Vikings, once they saw the shape of the island. Maybe, just maybe, they perceived it as a sign that they need to make this land their home.

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Stay Stay in a traditional Scottish castle, camp beside the wild and windswept Atlantic Ocean and just about anything in between.

Fingal’s Cave

Fingal’s cave is a geological wonder.

Firstly, the landmark cave is staggeringly deep at around 230 feet (70 metres). At the entrance, it’s roughly 60 feet high and 50 feet wide! Really awe-inspiring!

Where the Name Comes From

Fingal’s Cave is probably named after Finn MacCumhaill, a legendary leader of the Fianna in Ireland. Other legends suggest Fingal was a giant who put down Staffa as a stepping stone on his way to battle another giant in Ireland. Yet another story places Hell directly under Fingal’s Cave. The name may in fact come from the gaelic ‘an Uamh Binn’. This translates to ‘sweet’ or ‘melodious’ cave. This is due to the music created by the surge of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Music Behind Fingal’s Cave

An extremely well-known and popular classical piece of music is Felix Mendelssohn’s Hebrides overture, Fingal’s Cave. Mendelssohn visited the Island of Staffa and of course the Cave in August 1829. He was allegedly very sea sick at the time. This may help to explain his apparent dissatisfaction with his original version of the overture. However, fortunately for the listening public, the version he came up with a little later became the now ubiquitous piece we often hear today.

How you can visit Fingals Cave

There are several great tour operators that can take you to visit the Isle of Mull’s beautiful Offshore Islands. You can depart from Ulva Ferry, Tobermory, Fionnphort or Iona. They each offer something different so we recommend you check each of them out:

Mull Charters
St Hilda Sea Adventures
Staffa Tours
Staffa Trips
Sea Life Surveys

Fingal's Cave Staffa

Offshore Islands

Geological Landmarks

See & Do in the Area

Mull and Iona Ranger Service

Hebrides Cruises

Mull and Iona Arts Trail

West Coast Tours

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4 Day Isle of Mull and Fingal’s Cave Tour

Isle of mull and fingal's cave tour itinerary.

Embark on an exhilarating 4-day exploration of the Inner Hebrides with our exclusive Isle of Mull and Fingal’s Cave Tour! Departing from Edinburgh between April and October , this meticulously crafted journey immerses you in the rich culture and natural wonders of Scotland’s western isles.

Day 1 – The Highlands of Scotland

As you venture west through the Scottish Highlands we will visit some of Scotland’s most enchanting castle ruins Doune, Finlarig and Kilchurn . Before driving through Glencoe one of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland and known as ‘the valley of the weeping’ for its brutal history. Our final stop will at the vibrant coastal town of Oban, the seafood capital of Scotland where we will spend the night.

Day 2 – The Isle of Mull

Take the morning ferry to the Craignure on the Isle of Mull. Once we arrive we have four options for the morning : head over to the holy Isle of Iona , conquer Ben More the islands only mountain above 3,000 feet, hike out to geological wonder MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree or drive the Aros Peninsula and endulging in the islands finest cheese at the Tobermory Cheese Cafe .

To cap off the day we will head over to the Tobermory Distillery , the countries 7th oldest distillery to indulge in the tasting of their two distinct whisky brands: Ledaig and Tobermory. Or if you don’t like whisky then we can do the beautiful walk out to the Tobermory lighthouse.

Day 3 – Fingal’s Cave and Wildlife Boat Trip

During this 7 hour boat tour, we cruise to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa , keeping watch for Whales, Dolphins, Basking Sharks, and Sea Eagles. If spotted, the crew will ensure that we stop by to enjoy their company.

Our first stop will be at the idyllic Isle of Lunga , home to a bustling Puffin colony and other seabirds like Guillemots, Razorbill, and Kittiwake . After exploring for up to two hours, we tour Staffa for a visit to Fingal’s Cave where we will marvel at the natural wonder’s basaltic columns and listen to the enchanting folklore.

Day 4 – Inveraray and The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond

On our final day, we finish our tour of the Isle of Mull and board the morning ferry back to the mainland. We will head to Loch Awe to kayak over to the ruins of Innis Chonnel . After this, we explore the magnificent I nveraray Castle , a stately residence still inhabited by the Chief of Clan Campbell. Our journey continues with a scenic drive through The Rest and Be Thankful , culminating in a delightful stop at the charming village of Luss , nestled on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond . Lastly finishing up the tour in Edinburgh or Glasgow .

With each stop on our Isle of Mull and Fingal’s Cave Tour from Edinburgh, you’ll uncover the secrets of Scotland’s western isles and create memories to treasure for a lifetime. Join us as we journey through landscapes steeped in history, culture, and natural splendor, and experience the magic of the Inner Hebrides in all its glory.

How to Book

If you want to be involved with touring the Isle of Mull, Fingal’s Cave and the Highlands of Scotland then fill in our short contact form or contact me directly via [email protected] for availability or any questions!

Start – All guests will be picked up from accommodation between 6.45-7.15am

Finish – Approximately 7pm drop at accommodation

Mandatory: Photo ID

Recommended: Travel insurance, waterproof jacket, trousers, hiking boots, second pair of socks, insect repellent, gloves, hat, warm clothing, any snacks for the bus or hike, reusable water bottle and power bank

These terms and conditions, together with any other written information brought to your attention before we confirm your booking, shall form the basis of your contract with Rob Carr Tours. Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly and if you have any further questions contact us immediately.

Booking Process

Bookings can be made via our website contact form at by telephone, by email or contact form . Our online booking system can process payments via Stripe, PayPal and we are also able to take direct bank transfer. We will not issue your booking confirmation until the payment has been processed. For all walking tours full payment will be required at the time of booking (unless agreed otherwise) and for all other bookings a 20% non-refundable deposit. Note that we cannot be held responsible if any tour in which you are interested in becomes fully booked or unavailable prior to full payment being received from you.

Cancellation by You

If you wish to cancel or make any amendments to the tour, please notify us immediately in writing as cancellation charges may apply. Note the date the written communication is sent will be the effective date of cancellation. In the event of cancellation by you, cancellation charges may be payable, as set out below.

Extended Tours

For all extended scheduled tours (tours of one day or more [excluding walking tours]) have a 20% non-refundable deposit at the time of confirmation. The outstanding 80% balance of the tour price must be paid by no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled and confirmed tour departure date. Receipts for all payments will be provided after successful payment has been made. For any cancellations the charges shall apply (depending on the effective date of cancellation):-

cancellation more than 30 days before the tour date: 20% of the tour price;
cancellation between 14 days and 30 days before the tour date: 50% of the tour price;
cancellation less than 14 days before the tour date: 100% of the tour price;
in the event of a ‘no show’ you will be charged 100% of the tour price.

Cancellation by us

Rob Carr Tours reserves the right to cancel tours which experience unavoidable and unanticipated circumstances beyond our control. If we cancel then we will always refund the total amount received from the customer.

Change to itinerary

The itinerary must be taken as an indication of what each Group should accomplish and not as a contractual obligation on the part of Rob Carr Tours. Any changes in itinerary may be caused by local political conditions, delays, mechanical breakdown, weather, border restrictions, sickness or other unforeseeable circumstances. It is a fundamental condition when booking the tour described that you accept flexibility of the itinerary and acknowledge that delays and alterations with resulting consequences, comfort or disappointments are possible.

There is no travel insurance cover provided as part any of the products sold by Rob Carr Tours. We do not accept responsibility for lost personal possessions and/or luggage on any point of the tour as well as any additional expenses experienced through delays, sickness, weather or other grounds out with our control. Additionally, we strongly recommend to purchase a travel insurance policy covering personal possessions, medical, travel, cancellation etc.

Fingal’s Cave

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Visit Fingal’s Cave, the Giant’s Causeway of Scotland

Visit Fingal’s Cave and you’ll understand why it’s been inspiring artists for hundreds of years. Turner painted it, Wordsworth wrote a poem and Mendelssohn composed a piece of music to capture the sound of the waves crashing into it. As you sail up to Fingal’s Cave you’ll see its imposing black columns rising up out of the sea like a temple hacked out of the rock. It’s an extraordinary sight from a boat but it’s even better when you go inside. Once in the vast sea cave you can experience the remarkable acoustics that led to it being called ‘The Cave of Melody’ and see the extraordinary geological formations up close.

Fingal’s Cave was visited by the Vikings who named Staffa after their word for the logs their houses were built from but it was the botanist, Joseph Banks, who brought it to the attention of the world after his visit to Fingal’s Cave in 1772. At the time, the Romantic Movement was spreading across Europe, highlighting wildness, natural beauty and emotion and the wild beauty of Staffa and Fingal’s cave soon became a must-see sight on the Grand Tour.

You can visit Fingal’s Cave today on a boat trip from the island of Mull or from Oban on the mainland. As you approach Staffa across the sea you’ll see the cave in front of you. From some angles it looks like two floppy hats floating on the surface of the water, their rims a medley of colours from brown to ochre, cream and dark grey. As you get closer you can see the distinctive black pillars rising out of the sea and the huge openings leading to the entrance of the caves.

Most boats take you right up to the entrance of Fingal’s Cave. Our boat then docked at the landing stage so that we could spend an hour exploring the cave and the island. It’s not difficult to make your way across the rocks to go into the cave itself. The walk along the black hexagonal-shaped rocks feels like stepping into a mathematical puzzle. Tall columns rise up into the air on your right hand side as you edge your way around to the entrance. Climbing into the mouth of the cave is an otherworldly experience as you listen to the sounds of the sea playing melodies in your ears as it crashes agains the rocks and gaze up at the stunning geological formations on the roof of the cave.

After visiting Fingal’s Cave we climbed up the hill to explore the island itself. Staffa is only half a mile long and a quarter of a mile wide and from the top you can see from one side of the island to another. Up here you’re in classic Scottish scenery: purple heather grows in the grass banks and seabirds swoop in and out of the water. The views across the sea are stunning. It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful spot for a picnic. With everyone else on our boat dispersed over different parts of the island it felt like we had the whole of Staffa to ourselves.

It’s not unusual to spot dolphins and porpoises as you sail from Mull across to Staffa and if you’re really lucky you might see a minke whale or a basking shark. Sailing back towards Mull you pass the island of Ulva, Scotland’s newest community-owned island. You can also see Inch Kenneth, a tiny island where several ancient Scottish kings are said to be buried. It’s famous for being the last home of Unity Mitford, the notorious aristocrat and friend of Adolf Hitler who lived as an invalid here after shooting herself in the head when Britain declared war on Germany in 1939.

But it was Fingal’s Cave that was the highlight of our trip. It’s an extraordinary sight and a must-see on any trip to Mull and the Inner Hebrides.

Turus Mara runs small boat trips to visit Fingal’s Cave and Staffa from the Ulva ferry dock on Mull. During the puffin breeding season from April until early August you’ll spend an hour on Staffa and two hours on Lunga. Check the website for more details. The boat trips can book up weeks in advance in the summer months so book as early as you can.

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How to visit Fingal's Cave on Staffa, the Giant's Causeway of Scotland. Details of boat trips from Mull and Oban and how to see puffins. #fingalscave #fingalscavescotland #wheretoseepuffinsinscotland #thingstodoinscotland #thingstodoinmull #innerhebrides #islandstovisitinscotland #bestscotlandislands #scotlandwithkids #innerhebridesislands #innerhebridescaves #scotlandpuffins

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Went here with the kids, and they kept saying that the cave looked like an elephant!

I can definitely see an elephant too!

Thanks for sharing the photos! My first impression to Scotland is the butter cookies ahahah

You’re very welcome. They make the best biscuits in Scotland, don’t they?

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Boat Trips and tours

Boat Trips and Tours to the isles of Staffa and Treshnish, as well as voyages out to see wales, dolphins and basking sharks.

Click here for boat trips from Tobermory Click here for boat trips from Iona

St. Hilda Sea Adventures

St. Hilda Sea Adventures provides a cruising and wildlife holiday on the beautiful west coast of Scotland in the Inner and Outer Hebrides. READ MORE

Mull Charters

Mull Charters are now operating from Ulva ferry on the West Coast of Mull and provide a friendly relaxed service for up to 12 passengers. READ MORE

Staffa Trips

Enjoy the journey on MV Iolaire of Iona as she takes you to Staffa to experience Fingal’s Cave. Marvel at the wonders of our local area as our experienced crew point out things of interest along the way. For more information and to book READ MORE

Turus Mara are a family business based on the Isle of Mull. Established in 1973, we have been running boat trips for 40 years. Tours can be joined from Mull and Oban and run from Ulva Ferry on Mull to Staffa, The Treshnish Isles and Iona. For more information and to book READ MORE

Privacy Overview

Book a trip

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All Oban based trips must be booked direct with Turus Mara.

From £20.00‐£40.00

Trip Details

**Times from Oban subject to confirmation of Calmac 2024 Summer timetable.

Passengers from Oban join the 12:15 Calmac ferry to Craignure, where our minibus awaits to transport you to Ulva Ferry to join the Turus Mara tour.

This trip from Oban is an opportunity to combine a boat trip to visit Fingal’s Cave on Staffa with a little bit of Puffin Therapy (May – July) too!

Turus Mara team up with Caledonian MacBrayne to run trips for those staying in Oban and surrounding areas. On this tour you will join the Ferry in Oban for the 45 minute journey to Mull ( NOTE: you pay for and pick up your Calmac tickets on the day of travel ). From the start of your trip you will have great views of Oban Bay, then the Firth of Lorn, Lismore and the rugged South East corner of Mull including the imposing structure of Duart Castle backed by Ben More and the central Mull mountains.

Transport is provided from the Ferry Terminal at Craignure, through the Loch Na Keal designated National Scenic Area (NSA) to join our trips from Ulva Ferry. Keep an eye out for otters in the loch and both Golden and Sea Eagles as you skirt the loch across from Mull’s largest mountain and only Munro, Ben More.

Your transport arrives at Ulva Ferry with plenty time to join the boat to Staffa – a trip of around an hour cruising via the stunning south side of the community owned Island of Ulva. We will almost certainly encounter common seals and various bird species on this leg of the journey as well as having the opportunity to spot whales, dolphins and other sealife.

On to Staffa and a visit to Fingal’s Cave. On good days follow in many famous footsteps along the causeway and imagine you can hear the first few bars of Mendelssohn’s Overture in the eternal surge of the sea.

Puffins nest on the North East corner of Staffa and visitors can enjoy a little bit of ‘Puffin Therapy’ on most days until early August when the breeding season comes to an end.

The boat ride back to Ulva Ferry to rejoin your transport back to Craignure will usually head back in via Loch a Tuath, allowing for the circumnavigation of Ulva, giving lots more opportunities to spot wildife.

What have our customers said

Discover our range of trips, treshnish isles and staffa wildlife tour from mull (restarts april 2024), treshnish isles and staffa wildlife tour from oban (restarts april 2024), staffa tour from mull, big bird trip from mull, iona and staffa tour from mull, staffa & treshnish isles wildlife tour from oban (from 1st aug 2024), book a trip with us.

Fingal’s Cave on Isle of Staffa - How to Get Here and Tips

When Is the Best Time

Fingal's Cave was one of my highlights in Scotland. These huge basal columns are fascinating from the boat and even more from inside the cave formed 59 million years ago. Tours are offered from April to October when temperatures are more bearable and less storm occurs. The best chance for pleasant weather is during spring from April until June and again in September.

July and August can be lovely but more rain occur during the warmer months. To come ashore, visit the Isle of Staffa and having a look into the cave by foot is possible during a calm sea only. Boats can't dock during high swell and choppy sea. However, the view from the boat to Fingal's Cave is already stunning. The cave's face is southeast, therefore, best seen in the morning.

Isle of Staffa and Fingals Cave View from the boat

Check the weather forecast before you book a tour. Scotland is famous for quickly changeable weather and it frequently rains in July and August.

Best Months to Visit

Location and Tips

The boat ride to Staffa is already an amazing experience when dolphins pass by, seals get curious, or even a basking shark is spotted from June to August. Approaching Staffa and Fingal's cave from the sea is an incredible adventure. The uninhabited Staffa island measuring half a mile long and wide only. The cave is known for its natural acoustics and is part of a National Nature Reserve.

Closer look to the basalt columns of Fingal's Cave

The cave is made of huge basalt columns. A handrail is installed for safety reasons to access the cave. the rocks are slippery after high tide. Composer Felix Mendelssohn visited the cave in 1829 and got inspired to write the overture "The Hebrides". Also, other famous visitors got inspired by the cave like Jules Verne, Turner (painter) and many more.

You may spot different bird species like the fulmar, puffins, and the black guillemot (red legs). On the way to Staffa, keep an eye out for dolphins, minke whales, porpoises, and June to August for the popular basking sharks. Usually, Staffa is combined with the Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona and called "The Three Isle Tour". It is a full day trip; the price is about £ 60 per adult.

Another highly recommended tour is the Isle of Staffa, together with Lunga Island . Lunga is famous for being one of the best places to spot puffins quite close.

The History of Staffa

This tiny and remote island was inhabited and farmed already around 1800 BC, regarding a BBC documentation. The ancient fields with distinctive ridges were made by ploughing or digging with furrows on either side to drain off water. The crop was harvested from this tough soil in the middle of nowhere.

Seafood Stall - The Green Shack at Oban port

At Oban port is the best seafood stall of all located. Don't miss this exceptional seafood meal after your trip to Staffa.

Do you want to obtain the usage right for my images? Contact me, but I will take action against picture theft.

5 Fingal’s Cave Tours You for EPIC Landscapes

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Scotland is the holy land of hidden treasures, and is full of beautiful scenery, iconic wildlife, and rich and fanciful mythology.

Whether you’re a native, or just a wandering soul stopping by this incredible country, there are multiple buckle list pitstops you can make – and more often than not, most of them are off the beaten track.

Those heading north will not regret indulging in a Fingal’s Cave tour. We look at the best of what’s on offer.

fingal's cave staffa island boat tour puffin tours in scotland

Where is fingal’s cave, why visit fingal’s cave, 1. staffa, fingal’s cave & iona morning tour, 2. iona, mull & isle of skye tour, 3. isle of mull & iona small-group tour, 4. loch ness, glencoe & the scottish highlands tour, 5. magical mull, iona & west highlands small-group tour from edinburgh, fingal’s cave tours faqs, final thoughts, more scotland posts, pin fingal’s cave tours.

Fingal’s Cave can be found on the Isle of Staffa on the North Sea, which is in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland.

This is Why You Need to Visit the Isle of Staffa

The island, which was discovered in 1772, is uninhibited and is currently owned and preserved by the National Trust, and is accessible only by boat. The rock formation that makes up the island was initially formed by lava flow and is more specifically known as hexagonally jolted basalt columns.

The cave was discovered and put on the map by the 18th-century naturalist, Sir Joseph Banks, a year after the island’s initial discovery.

Fingal’s Cave is famous for many things, but most notably, its natural acoustics. The island measures at roughly half a mile in both length and width and can be easily explored in just a few hours.

Over the years, Fingal’s Cave has piqued the interest of some pretty famous faces, including Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and even Queen Victoria.

Aside from the stunning aesthetic of the cave, which depicts hardened flowing lava, there are many reasons to spend an afternoon perusing the magical Fingal’s Cave.

The basalt columns are quite the sight to behold, and almost resemble a frozen waterfall. Also, those of you who consider yourselves history buffs and/or Scottish folklore fanatics will enjoy the rich Gaelic origins of the cave.

Fingal’s Cave inherited its unusual name by way of a famous poem in James MacPherson’s collection of poems, known as Ossian, which are based on Scottish and Irish Gaelic folklore and mythology.

In terms of mythology and folklore, Fingal’s Cave has connections to the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim in Northern Ireland, which is an area made up of roughly 40,000 basalt columns, which interlocked after a volcanic fissure eruption from roughly 55 million years ago.

The cave is also similar in structure to Ulva, another island in the Inner Hebrides, which, unlike the Isle of Staffa, is populated, and has been since Mesolithic times.

So it’s safe to say it’s pretty rich in history!

@voyagingherbivore This isnf Iceland… it’s actually an island off the cosst of #Scotland . 📍 #FingalsCave is not for the faint lf heart, but it is a pretty spectacular thing to see! #scottishisles #isleofmull #hiddenscotland #scotlandhiddengems ♬ original sound – Alysa

If you visit Fingal’s Cave, you can also marvel at the many sights to be seen, including puffin watching, whale or basking shark watching, and gazing at the Isle of Iona, which can be seen framed by the inside of the cave.

In short, it is a dreamscape for lovers of geology, wildlife (particularly seabirds), and cave explorers!

5 Fingal’s Cave Tours to Try in 2023

So, now that we know there’s much to behold when visiting Staffa Island, let’s look into some of the best Fingal’s Cave tours available in 2023.

First of all, it’s important to take certain factors into consideration before booking a tour:

Tours are only available between the months of April and late October.
All trips and landings are via boat and are subject to the day’s weather and sea conditions.
Even in the summer months, the North Sea can be chilly, so do bundle up.

Now that we’re in the know about those advisories, let’s look at tours available to book.

Tour length: 3 hours

Visit the moody, atmospheric Fingal’s Cave by way of Iona or Fionnphort and take in the sights that have captivated so many people over the years.

Not only can you explore in awe of the dramatic rock formations that have stood the test of time – all 59 million years of it – but you can breathe in the fresh North Sea air, explore the cave itself, and – if you’re really lucky – get to witness some of the wonderful native wildlife, such as puffins, gannets, porpoises, basking sharks, dolphins, sea otters, guillemots, and many more.

Read the Complete Guide on Puffins here: Puffins in Scotland: Where, When & How to See Them

people get out of the boat onto the isle of staffa and fingal's cave

Tour length: 5 days

If a morning tour just isn’t enough time to quench the thirst for exploring the northern gems of Scotland, perhaps a five-day tour is in order.

This incredible tour allows you to get personally acquainted with the rugged rocks, magnificent mountains, lovely lochs, bone-warming whiskey, and awe-inspiring abbeys that the Highlands are known for. And yes – a trip to Fingal’s Cave is included.

Read More: 8 Things to Do on the Isle of Mull

Where you’ll be going:

Loch Lomond National Park
Iona & Staffa
Fingal’s Cave
Isle of Skye
Eilean Donan Castle

That list should add a few ticks to that bucket list, no?!

Price: ££/£££
Tour length: 3 days

The sweet spot between a one-day tour and a five-day tour is, of course, a three-day tour.

Read More: 7 Best Isle of Mull Cottages For Your Next Holiday

This intimate small-group tour is ideal for those who love to explore various locations, without the headache of organising (or driving to) the event.

This tour allows you to travel in the comfort of a 16-seater Mercedes minibus, while experiencing the incredible scenery (not to mention local whisky and food) while being driven by an expert tour guide.

To add to the ease of the experience, you won’t need to arrange accommodation – a two-night stay in a hotel or B&B are included within this package.

Loch Lomond
Tobermory town
Isle of Staffa (optional)

Price: £/££
Tour length: Full-day

If Fingal’s Cave and Loch Ness are both on your bucket list – you’re in luck!

Prepare for a full day of Highland adventure with this day-tour that covers Loch Ness, Glencoe, and other optional detours.

Learn all about the Highlands history with a driver/guide doing the legwork of the tour for you – and the best part? This tour is part-customisable, allowing you to add certain pit stops you just have to see.

Not only do you have a chance at witnessing Scotland’s most legendary native, Nessie, but you are also very likely to see some other national treasures – Highland cows!

This tour includes:

Transportation on an air-conditioned bus
An expert tour guide, which includes a live commentary
Loch Ness boat cruise (optional)
Urquhart castle visit (optional)
Tour length: 4 days

Last but not least, this magical four-day tour allows you to explore the magnificent Mull, Iona, and the West Highlands in a small, intimate group for a more personalised experience. I actually went on this tour with my family and LOVED it! Mull is absolutely stunning and this was a perfect tour with plenty of photo stops and truly breathtaking landscapes.

Read More: A Guide to Visiting Iona Island in Scotland in 2023

This tour departs from the beautiful city of Edinburgh, therefore is ideal for those exploring the more urban areas of this incredible country, as well as the mythical nooks and crannies that are off the beaten track.

Accommodation is included and a local whisky distillery tour is recommended!

Three-night stay in Tobermory, a picturesque seaside town.
Tours of the islands, including Iona Abbey – where ancient Celtic kings are buried.
Exploring Neolithic burial grounds, including The Valley of Ghosts.
Touring includes being chaperoned in a fully-guided minibus.

At low tide, visitors can explore the inside of Fingal’s Cave via a walkway. It’s important to note that the walkway is thin and slippery with very dangerous drops down the side. There is a handrail attached to the wall, but there’s nothing between you and the waves below.

Aside from both being formed from lava, which, when solidified, resulted in the hexagonal columns that they are both famous for, Fingal’s Cave and Giant’s Causeway are said to have been quite literally connected at one point. Because the two sites were created by the same ancient lava flow, it is believed that at one point in history there may have been a lava rock “bridge” that physically connected them.

There is a legend associated with Fingal’s Cave, which is typically known as “Uamh-Binn”, or “The Cave of Melody”, which coincides with the belief that Fingal’s Cave was once physically linked to Giant’s Causeway. According to Celtic and Gaelic legend, this bridge wasn’t the creation of a natural event, but instead was built by an ancient Irish giant named Fionn mac Cumhaill, who was said to be friendly and harmless.

Before embarking on a tour, please be mindful that: The island is completely uninhibited. That means there aren’t any toilets, cafés, or gift shops. Appropriate footwear is imperative, owing to slippery and uneven rocks. The island is owned by the National Trust, so it is only accessible via local licensed tour companies.

Fingal’s Cave is a perfect example of the wonders of nature, and is a beautiful Scottish landmark that simply must be visited whenever in the country.

What Camera Gear Do We Use?

Camera body : Nikon d750
Phone : iPhone 13 Pro
Favorite Multipurpose Travel Lens: 24-120mm f/4
GoPro : GoPro Hero 8
Drone : DJI Mavic Air is no longer available so we recommend the DJI Air2S
Camera Bag: Wandrd Prvke 31L
Tripod : ESDDI Aluminum Tripod

If you want the full list of things we keep in our camera bag, check out the complete guide or browse our photography guides .

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Staffa & Fingals Cave Treshnish Wildlife Tour

Duration: 4 Hours (approx.)
Location : Tobermory, Argyll
Product code: PE0KW7

On this tour you will sail on the MV Angus, the largest and fastest vessel to operate trips to the Treshnish Isles & Staffa. The journey around Mull's west coast from Tobermory with its abundance of wildlife and stunning views takes us around one hour thanks to our modern vessels speed and stability; offering you a comfortable journey to enjoy the dramatic surroundings and thus giving you the advantage of having more time and more opportunities to sight wildlife and explore the unspoilt Islands when you choose this tour.

This tour departs from the convenient locations of Tobermory and Kilchoan offering a scenic sail along the beautifully diverse north and west coast of Mull, famed for its variety of sealife and birdlife including the iconic White - Tailed Eagle.

Arriving at Staffa you will enjoy a landing visit upon the island, where you can spend up to 1hr15mins to explore and venture into the world-famous ‘Fingal’s Cave’, nowhere else is there a sea cave formed completely in hexagonally jointed basalt. Its appeal lies in the size, the sounds, the colours, and the remarkable symmetry of this 227 foot cavern. Along the way there is the opportunity, not only to learn of the landmarks, but to search for wildlife encounters with the Common and Bottlenose Dolphins present to the waters year round, as well as Basking Sharks and Minke Whales that can still be sighted until they migrate to warmer waters come October. The trip offers ample time to go in search of the wonderful wildlife that shares home with us; including the magnificent White-tailed Sea Eagle and Golden Eagle. Setting this trip apart from our normal Staffa excursion you will also have the opportunity to sail through the stunning Treshnish Isles. Come the middle of August many of the iconic Puffins and other bird species that nest during the summer upon the Treshnish Isles descend to migrate elsewhere for the winter, for this reason we cease landing on the Treshnish Isles however on this tour we still allow time to explore the archipelago islands and skerries from the sea; our knowledgeable and local crew will guide you through the geology and history that make-up the wonders of the Treshnish Isles. They are renowned for their history dating back to the Viking era, where today there are remains of blackhouses, hill forts, medieval chapels and castles that are visible offshore, and were inhabited until 1857. At this time of year the islands do remain home to an abundance of both Common Seals and Grey Seals (who will give birth to their pups in the autumn) , Basking Sharks as well as bird species that are resident all year round; Fulmar, Shag, Great black-backed Gull and Herring Gull. Occasionally the few remaining Gannet’s, Manx Shearwater’s and Common Tern’s can be seen until they will have all migrated by October. Returning mid-afternoon gives our passengers further time to explore the picturesque town of Tobermory.

For Tobermory passengers our tours depart from Ledaig pontoon, next to the harbour visitor center in Tobermory. Free car parking is available. For Kilchoan, Ardnamurchan passengers our tours depart from the Mingary Pier, free car parking is also available. View on Google maps .

The Journey from Tobermory/Kilchoan to the sea life feeding grounds and the Treshnish Isles takes us under one hour thanks to our modern vessels speed and stability, thus giving you the advantage of having more time to sight wildlife or explore the unspoilt Islands when you choose this tour.

Please note

On all our tours you will always be accompanied by local and knowledgeable crew to guide your experience.

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Departing Kilchoan and Tobermory

Staffa and Treshnish Isles Wildlife Tour

Departing from Fionnphort, Mull and Iona

Staffa Tour
Staffa 'Early Bird' Tour
Wildlife Cruise, Treshnish Isles and Staffa Tour

Departing from Oban

Three Isles Excursion
Three Isles 'Early Bird' Tour

Useful information

Where to Stay
Planning a trip

Tours from Oban

Three Isles Tour - Mull, Iona & Staffa

Adult £94 | Child £47

Mull and Iona

Adult £54 | Child £28

Tobermory, Treshnish, Staffa

Adult £109 | Child £55

Tobermory and Staffa

Adult £97 | Child £48

Wildlife Tour

Adult £99 | Child £49

Three Isles Early Bird

Adult £88 | Child £44

Iona Day Trip Winter Special

Adult £27.90 | Child £14

Tobermory Day Trip Winter Special

Adult £19.90 | Child £10

In and Around Mull

Explore the island on our local bus routes

The insider's guide to Mull, Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles.

Tours from Mull

The Three Isles Tour (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £71 | Child £35

Mull and Iona (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £38 | Child £19

Tobermory, Treshnish and Staffa (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £81 | Child £40

Tobermory and Staffa (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £69 | Child £35

Wildlife Tour (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Adult £75 | Child £37

Three Isles Early Bird (Departing from Craignure, Mull)

Tobermory & staffa tour.

Duration: 12 Hours

Enjoy the picturesque village of Tobermory, famous for its coloured houses as well as magical Staffa, home of the awe-inspiring Fingal’s Cave.

The tour departs from the Ferry Terminal Railway Pier, Oban on Caledonian MacBrayne’s MV Isle of Mull, crossing the Firth of Lorn to Craignure on Mull where you join your West Coast Motors bus which will take you to Tobermory. Once in Tobermory, you will head to the Staffa Tours boat in Tobermory Marina which will take you to Staffa. Sailing via the North Coast of Mull to the magical island of Staffa, you will have approximately one hour to explore Fingal’s Cave and walk along its clifftops before sailing back to Tobermory. Arriving back in Tobermory, you will then have several hours before joining your coach which will take you back to Craignure to catch the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry back to Oban.

Trying to book tickets for tomorrow? – Our online booking system requires at least 24 hours’ notice, however, we may still have tickets available. Please call us on 01586 552319 to check for last-minute availability or pop into the West Coast Motors Tour shop, located in George St, Oban.

Your Itinerary

06:55 Be at the ferry terminal ready to board

07:25 Ferry sails from Oban to Craignure on Mull

08:11 Arrive in Craignure on Mull

08:25 Depart Craignure by coach

09:10 Arrive Tobermory

09:30 Sail with Staffa Tours around the Treshnish Isles on a Wildlife tour

Land on Staffa for approx. 1 hour

14.30 Arrive in Tobermory

15.50 Depart Tobermory

17.10 Depart Craignure

17.57 Arrive in Oban

Sailings and landings are subject to favourable sea and weather conditions.
We recommend bringing a packed lunch as there will be no opportunity to purchase food until you return to Tobermory.

Head over to our FAQ section for more information and useful tips to make the most of your day trip!

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07732912370
07831885985

Tobermory & Staffa wildlife tour

Tour details.

£97 per adult
Departs: Oban

This tour allows you to enjoy the picturesque village of Tobermory, famous for its coloured houses as well as magical Staffa, home of the famous Fingal’s Cave.

Tour departs Tuesday to Friday from Oban at 0715, returning to Oban at 2005.

The tour departs from the Ferry Terminal Railway Pier, Oban on Caledonian MacBrayne’s MV Isle of Mull, crossing the Firth of Lorn to Craignure on Mull where you join your West Coast Motors bus which will take you to Tobermory. Once in Tobermory you will head to the Staffa Tours boat in Tobermory Marina which will take you to Staffa. Sailing via the North Coast of Mull to the magical island of Staffa, you will have approximately 1hr 15mins to explore Fingal’s Cave and walk along its cliff tops before sailing back through the Treshnish Isles i. search of seals and a variety of sea life. Arriving back in Tobermory, you will then have several hours before joining The Tobermory Topper service which will take you back to Craignure to catch the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry back to Oban.

Sailings and landings subject to favourable sea and weather conditions. We recommend bringing a packed lunch as there will be no opportunity to purchase food until you return to Tobermory.

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In accordance with the current data protection laws, please take a minute to review the term & conditions for using our services. Our terms describe how we use data and the options available to you.

16 Largest Caves In The World, Ranked By Size

The Kazumura Cave in Hawaii is the longest and deepest lava tube in the world, measuring 40.7 miles long and 3,614 feet deep. Tourists cannot enter the cave, but there are tours available in the surrounding area.
Fingal's Cave in Scotland is known for its impressive acoustics and is accessible by boat. The cave's length varies between 227 and 270 feet, with its arched roof reaching up to 72 feet above the sea. Visit during low tide for the best access.
The Clearwater Cave System in Malaysia is over 30 miles long and exists within Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features an underground river and unique rock formations. The cave system is still being explored.

Serving as a gateway into the past and an example of the way our planet has evolved, the world's incredible caves have always sparked human interest. While some are inaccessible to tourists, many of the world’s most famous caves contain distinct rock formations, underground bodies of water, and other fascinating highlights, making them major attractions for locals and visitors alike. It’s humbling to think that there are some caves large enough to house New York City's epic skyscrapers and entire city blocks within them. Here are the largest caves in the world and where tourists can find them.

UPDATE: 2023/09/28 14:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are Two More Massive Caves To Check Out

This article has been refreshed with two new caves to see this year and helpful information on existing locations. Whether someone wants to cave dive, take a tour of an active volcanic site, or simply do some research, the planet is filled with incredible cave systems worth understanding. Be safe, and have fun!

Related: Explore Ancient Caves In Aruba's Arikok National Park (& More)

Kazumura Cave, Hawaii

This is the longest and deepest lava tube in the world.

For anyone in Hawaii, the Kazumura Cave is one not to miss. Here lies the lava tube, which has been surveyed at 40.7 miles long and 3,614 feet deep, making it the longest and deepest lava tube in the world. The Kazumura Cave in Hawaii is located on the island of HawaiÊ»i on the eastern slope of KÄ«lauea and is one of the more recently active in the area. Tourists are unable to go inside the cave as it is an active volcanic site, but there are tours in the surrounding area. After all, Hawaii is filled with stunning scenery (volcanoes and beyond), so this is a hidden gem.

Fingal's Cave, Scotland

This cave is known for its impressive acoustics.

Another massive cave worth exploring is Fingal's Cave in Scotland. This cave is not only on the uninhabited island of Staffa, in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, but is also known for its natural acoustics. Many tourists will venture to the cave to scream, sing, and hear the vast echoes of afar. Fingal's Cave is accessible by boat, making it a nice sight for those willing to get on the water. Moreover, this cave's length varies between 227 feet (69 meters) and 270 feet (82 meters), and its arched roof is said to reach between 66 feet (20 meters) and 72 feet (22 meters) above the sea.

During low tide, guests have the best access to Fingal's Cave.

Clearwater Cave System, Malaysia

This cave system runs 30+ miles and exists in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Situated in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, the limestone Clearwater Cave System consists of a series of interconnected caves rather than just a single one. Clearwater - on its own - has been mapped to just above 30 miles; however, Clearwater Cave System is more than just its longest member. Discovered in the late 1970s, the cave system exists within Gunung Mulu National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

In the Clearwater Cave System, people will find an underground river, as well as a plethora of unique rock formations. Containing an exceptionally large passage, the Clearwater Cave System is one of the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia and serves as a major tourist attraction. The amazing thing about caves is that nobody knows their true size. Clearwater is still being explored to this very day.

Hölloch Cave, Switzerland

This is one of the biggest caves in the world that tourists can enter.

Tourists can enter the Hölloch, one of the biggest caves in the world. This enormous underground marvel is 124.5 miles long and impressively deep at 3079.3 feet. The Hölloch is a natural wonder not to be missed, with its striking limestone structures and subterranean waterways.

Lechuguilla Cave, New Mexico

Located within the Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Lechuguilla Cave is located within Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico . A limestone and gypsum cave spanning more than 138 miles , Lechguilla is full of interesting mineral formations that have attracted the interest of geologists around the world. While discovered in the 1950s, approximately three decades would pass before Colorado would permit the cave to be explored further. Since the decade of hair metal, explorers have investigated Lechuguilla Cave while marveling at its beauty.

Wind Cave, South Dakota

This is one of the oldest National Park cave attractions in the United States.

Wind Cave National Park is one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. Another cave that’s classified as a “maze cave” due to its convoluted structure and many underground passages, Wind Cave's density is staggering, even compared to other caves on this list. Those visiting the cave should also take some time to explore the national park in which it resides.

Wind Cave National Park is brimming with picturesque views and serves as a protective habitat for the local wildlife.

Related: Visit Ontario's Largest-Known Cavern: The Tyendinaga Caves

Shuanghedong Cave Network, China

This is the longest cave network in China and the continent of Asia.

The Shuanghedong Cave Network is the longest cave in China and Asia , situated in Guizhou. Running for more than 150 miles, the network was discovered in 1987 and is a fine example of underground ecosystems. There are at least three rivers in the lower levels of the cave, as well as a number of waterfalls.

Within these bodies of water live creatures such as fish and salamanders. Since its discovery in the late 1980s, various expeditions have been carried out in an attempt to map the passages and discover the cave's secrets.

Optymistychna Cave, Ukraine

Ukraine boasts the longest gypsum cave in the world.

Earning the crown for the longest gypsum cave, Optymistychna Cave in Ukraine extends for over 161 miles and is divided into 10 different areas. These are based on the various passage structures and gypsum varieties found within. Optymistychna Cave, located in Korolivka, Ukraine, is widely known as a maze cave due to the fact that it is extremely elaborate and a little complicated to navigate.

Visitors should be prepared for a lot of mud, especially in the depths of the cave.

Sistema Ox Bel Ha, Mexico

This cave runs within a 30-mile radius of Mexico's other largest cave system.

Mexico’s Sistema Ox Bel Ha is located within a 30-mile radius of the country’s other largest cave system, Sistema Dos Ojos. Discovered in 1996 and spanning over 160 miles , Ox Bel Ha is thought to have begun forming approximately 18,000 years ago. The name Ox Bel Ha comes from the Yucatec Maya language and translates to “Three Paths of Water” in English.

Since its formation, Ox Bel Ha has become flooded due to the effects of global warming. Today, the system is valued as one of the prominent sources of freshwater in the region.

Mulu Caves, Borneo

These caves are home to the Sarawak and Deer Chambers and hundreds of bats.

Home to the Sarawak and Deer Chambers, Mulu Caves houses hundreds of bats and one of the world's most impressive and largest cave formations. Some of the most stunning cave formations may be seen at the Mulu Caves, situated in the Gunung Mulu National Park on the island of Borneo (home to some of the biggest cave systems in the world) .

The Deer Chamber is one of the biggest underground tunnels on Earth, while the Sarawak Chamber, with a surface size of 1.66 million square feet, is the largest cave overall. Tourists may take guided excursions to explore their maze-like pathways.

Related: The World's Largest Geode Is This Ohio Crystal Cave

Jewel Cave, South Dakota

This Jewel Cave is one of the most beautiful in the United States.

As far as aesthetically pleasing caves go, South Dakota’s Jewel Cave is not to be missed. Nestled in the Black Hills National Forest, this gem boasts beautiful scenery below the ground as well as above. The name Jewel Cave comes from the colorful crystals that can be found adorning the inner corners of the cave.

There are a number of tours visitors can take to truly experience Jewel Cave in all its splendor, whether they want to trek to the cave system underground or enjoy the trails on the land above ground.

Sistema Dos Ojos, Mexico

This cave network runs for over 200 miles and is connected to other underwater caves.

Located in Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Sistema Dos Ojos was discovered in 1987 and has hooked the interest of explorers ever since. Running for over 200 miles , this limestone cave is connected to the underwater cave of Sistema Sac Atun.

According to Largest.org , Sistema Dos Ojos is considered a prime archeological site. Archaeologists have discovered information within this cave system that has led to many discoveries about a number of cultures. After the channel connecting Sistema Dos Ojos with Sistema Sac Atun was discovered, this cave system became known as the largest underwater cave in existence.

Sac Actun, Mexico

This is the largest cave system in Mexico.

The greatest cave system in Mexico is an underwater one, and new parts of it are constantly being found and investigated. Sac Actun is one of the world's largest underwater cave systems; it presently extends over 228 miles as new caverns are found. Sac Actun won't let down adventurers with all the beauty and majesty that a cave of this size involves.

Related: 20 Unique Caves Around The World Only The Brave Should Explore

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Mammoth Cave is not fully understood or mapped yet.

It’s unknown how far Mammoth Cave actually extends, but to date, it has been recorded that the underground system stretched at least 365 miles . New caves in the network are constantly being discovered, so there’s no telling just how expansive the system really is - some believe it could be the biggest cave in the world, given that nobody knows its true size yet.

Humans have been exploring Mammoth Cave for over 4,000 years, and today, it’s still a major tourist attraction in Kentucky. A particularly stunning cave, it hosts a variety of stalactite formations. These were created through water that leaked through the limestone ceiling of the cave over the millennia.

People can visit Mammoth Cave National Park and see the cave for real .

Miao Room Cave, China

This cave is only reachable via its underground stream.

The Miao Room is undoubtedly one of the largest caverns in the world. This chamber, 380,700,000 cu ft in volume , is only reachable via its underground stream. These measurements were discovered during a laser-mapping trip that was supported by the National Geographic Society, and they were then presented at the national caving conference in the UK.

Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

The Son Doong Cave is one of the largest in the world, forcing guests to drop 260 feet to enter.

With caverns large enough to house a 40-story skyscraper, the recently discovered Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is the largest cave in the world and forces visitors to descend 260 feet just to enter its perimeters. Son Doong was discovered in 1991 by a man named Ho Khanh, who was living in the nearby jungle.

The first expedition to the cave was led by the British Cave Research Association in 2009. They found that Son Doong is more than 400 million years old . For those wanting to visit, Oxalis Adventures is the only company to run tours into the Son Doong Caves . Overall, this beast dwarfs many of the other largest caverns in the world, so it's a must-see for any cave enthusiast looking for their next adventure.

16 Largest Caves In The World, Ranked By Size

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Ultimate Guide to Fingal's Cave (Scotland) (Tours, Pricing, History
Ultimate Guide to Fingal's Cave (Scotland) (Tours, Pricing, History
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Ultimate Guide to Fingal's Cave (Scotland) (Tours, Pricing, History

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COMMENTS

Staffa Tours
DESTINATIONS. Our tours allow you to take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland. The Isle of Staffa, the world-famous Fingal's Cave, the sacred Isle of Iona, Mull and the ornithological heaven of the Treshnish Isles - the most beautiful and interesting places on the West Coast of Scotland. Explore Our Destinations.
How to visit Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa
West Coast Tours based in Oban enables you to discover three beautiful Inner Hebridean islands including the beauty of Staffa and the awe inspiring Fingal's Cave. A number of boat operators in Oban offer trips from the mainland to Staffa, including Seafari Adventures. It makes sense to combine a visit to Staffa with trips to its equally ...
Fingal's Cave (Staffa)
Fingal's Cave (Staffa) Take this fantastic trip with us to explore the one of a kind Fingal's Cave and enjoy breath taking views and beautiful wildlife. This three hour cruise takes you South East from Tiree across the passage of Tiree and passed the iconic Dutchman's cap. Out on the open waters, you're bound to experience an adrenaline ...
Ultimate Guide to Fingal's Cave (Scotland) (Tours, Pricing, History)
It is formed from hexagonally-jointed basalt columns similar to the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. The Giant's Causeway and Fingal's Cave were both formed by the same lava flow 60 million years ago. Fingal's Cave Fun Facts. Tourists can visit Fingal's Cave by boat, or once they are on the island, they can easily access it via foot.
Staffa Tour FROM MULL
A unique geological phenomenon recognised as one of the wonders of the natural world. Listen carefully when you walk into the natural cathedral which is Fingal's Cave and imagine the first few bars of Mendelssohn's Overture in the eternal surge of the Atlantic. Easter to October. From £20.00‐£40.00.
Treshnish Isles Boat Tours
A sea cave on the uninhabited island of Staffa. This three hour cruise takes you South East from Tiree across the passage of Tiree and passed the iconic Dutchman's cap. Out on the open waters, you're bound to experience an adrenaline rush, as your Skipper revs the engine and takes you on a thrilling high speed journey to view the unique ...
Guide to Staffa Island & Fingal's Cave Tour from Oban, Scotland
Duration: 2-12h. Starting Point: Oban or Isle of Mull (Ulva Ferry) Destination: Staffa Island, Inner Hebrides. Tours: Calmac & Turus Mara or StaffaTours. Price: from £35 to £73 (depending on tour and starting point) Best time to visit: May-July. Accomondation: Oban & Craignure.
Fingal's Cave
An extremely well-known and popular classical piece of music is Felix Mendelssohn's Hebrides overture, Fingal's Cave. Mendelssohn visited the Island of Staffa and of course the Cave in August 1829. He was allegedly very sea sick at the time. This may help to explain his apparent dissatisfaction with his original version of the overture.
Staffa Tours Reservations
The ultimate wildlife boat tour for sea bird, wildlife enthusiasts, natural history lovers and the family.Visit Staffa, Fingal's Cave and the Treshnish Isles. See Puffins, Dolphins, Basking sharks, Eagles and Whales. Duration: 6 Hours (approx.) From GBP £85.00. Book Now.
4 Day Isle of Mull and Fingal's Cave Tour
Kieran. Start - All guests will be picked up from accommodation between 6.45-7.15am. Finish - Approximately 7pm drop at accommodation. Experience the wonders of the Inner Hebrides on a 4-day tour exploring the Isle of Mull and Fingal's Cave. Secure your spot today!
Staffa Tour from Iona or Fionnphort
TOUR DETAILS. £40 per adult. 3 hours. Departs: Iona, Fionnphort. Take a tour to the most dramatic of all the Scottish islands: The Isle Of Staffa, with its hexagonal pillars and Fingal's Cave. On the way to Staffa keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoises and minke whales which are often seen during the warmer months.
Fingal's Cave
Fingal's Cave. 143 reviews. #1 of 19 things to do in Isle of Iona. Caverns & Caves. Open now. 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM. Write a review. About. Large cavern by the sea full of echoes and the sound of crashing ocean waves.
Visit Fingal's Cave, the Giant's Causeway of Scotland
Turus Mara runs small boat trips to visit Fingal's Cave and Staffa from the Ulva ferry dock on Mull. During the puffin breeding season from April until early August you'll spend an hour on Staffa and two hours on Lunga. Check the website for more details. The boat trips can book up weeks in advance in the summer months so book as early as ...
Turus Mara
Turus Mara Seabird and Wildlife Cruise-Tours Turus Mara are a family run business, established in 1973, and have been visiting Staffa and the Treshnish Isles for half a century. ... Staffa is home to the majestic Fingal's Cave and hosts its own colony of puffins. Tours can be joined from both Mull and Oban. Our boat trips run from Ulva Ferry on ...
Boat trips and tours out to Staffa and Treshnish Isles, as well as
Enjoy the journey on MV Iolaire of Iona as she takes you to Staffa to experience Fingal's Cave. Marvel at the wonders of our local area as our experienced crew point out things of interest along the way. ... Turus Mara. Turus Mara are a family business based on the Isle of Mull. Established in 1973, we have been running boat trips for 40 ...
The Beginner's Guide to Fingal's Cave
Formed over 50 million years ago, Fingal's Cave is located on the uninhabited island of Staffa and contributes to part of a vast network of sea caves. The cave was carved from the same lava flow that shaped the Giants Causeway, an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns in Northern Ireland. Whilst the columns of layered rock were ...
Staffa Tour FROM OBAN
Passengers from Oban join the 12:15 Calmac ferry to Craignure, where our minibus awaits to transport you to Ulva Ferry to join the Turus Mara tour. This trip from Oban is an opportunity to combine a boat trip to visit Fingal's Cave on Staffa with a little bit of Puffin Therapy (May - July) too! Turus Mara team up with Caledonian MacBrayne ...
Fingal's Cave on Isle of Staffa
To come ashore, visit the Isle of Staffa and having a look into the cave by foot is possible during a calm sea only. Boats can't dock during high swell and choppy sea. However, the view from the boat to Fingal's Cave is already stunning. The cave's face is southeast, therefore, best seen in the morning. Check the weather forecast before you ...
5 Fingal's Cave Tours You for EPIC Landscapes
5 Fingal's Cave Tours to Try in 2023. 1. Staffa, Fingal's Cave & Iona Morning Tour. 2. Iona, Mull & Isle of Skye Tour. 3. Isle of Mull & Iona Small-Group Tour. 4. Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour.
Staffa & Fingals Cave Treshnish Wildlife Tour
Staffa & Fingals Cave Treshnish Wildlife Tour. From GBP £60.00. Duration: 4 Hours (approx.) Location: Tobermory, Argyll. Product code: PE0KW7. On this tour you will sail on the MV Angus, the largest and fastest vessel to operate trips to the Treshnish Isles & Staffa. The journey around Mull's west coast from Tobermory with its abundance of ...
Tobermory & Staffa Tour
09:30 Sail with Staffa Tours around the Treshnish Isles on a Wildlife tour. Land on Staffa for approx. 1 hour. 14.30 Arrive in Tobermory. 15.50 Depart Tobermory. 17.10 Depart Craignure. 17.57 Arrive in Oban. Sailings and landings are subject to favourable sea and weather conditions. We recommend bringing a packed lunch as there will be no ...
Tobermory & Staffa wildlife tour
This tour allows you to enjoy the picturesque village of Tobermory, famous for its coloured houses as well as magical Staffa, home of the famous Fingal's Cave. Tour departs Tuesday to Friday from Oban at 0715, returning to Oban at 2005. ... Once in Tobermory you will head to the Staffa Tours boat in Tobermory Marina which will take you to ...
16 Largest Caves In The World, Ranked By Size
Fingal's Cave in Scotland is known for its impressive acoustics and is accessible by boat. The cave's length varies between 227 and 270 feet, with its arched roof reaching up to 72 feet above the sea.

How to visit Fingal's Cave and why you need to

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How to get to Fingals Cave

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Fingal's Cave (Staffa)

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Recent Posts

Connecting the Dots

June 7, 2023

Approaching Staffa Island

The Cathedral of Sea

Staffa Island Tour Details

Map of Staffa Island Tour from Oban

Facilities in Staffa Island Cruise Tour

Possible Tours to Staffa Island from Oban

Staffa Tours

Calmac & Turus Mara Tours

Other Companies:

From Other Cities:

Staffa Island

The Legend of Fingal

Fingal’s Cave – The Melodious Cave

Puffin Colony on Staffa Island

Puffin Watching Tours

Is it dangerous in Staffa Island?

Geology of Staffa Island

How did the Rock Formations of Staffa Island had Formed?

Columnar Jointing

From Edinburg: Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands

From Inverness: Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle

From Edinburg: Glenfinnan, Fort William & Glencoe

Personal Experience

Media Attachments

Fingal’s Cave

Where the Name Comes From

The Music Behind Fingal’s Cave

How you can visit Fingals Cave

See & Do in the Area

Mull and Iona Ranger Service

Hebrides Cruises

Mull and Iona Arts Trail

West Coast Tours

4 Day Isle of Mull and Fingal’s Cave Tour

Day 1 – The Highlands of Scotland

Day 2 – The Isle of Mull

Day 3 – Fingal’s Cave and Wildlife Boat Trip

Day 4 – Inveraray and The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond

How to Book

Fingal’s Cave