Get ready to enjoy a cruise on the River Tay

The starting date for the 2019 season of boat trips on the River Tay has been revealed. 

From 16 May to September local people and visitors are being encouraged to discover the wildlife and sights of the River Tay with a range of fantastic boat trips.

Trips include a return sailing from Broughty Ferry Harbour to Perth allowing approximately two hours in Perth city centre to enjoy something to eat and drink, sightsee or just enjoy a walk before the return journey from the pontoon near the Fergusson Gallery.

The second option is a trip departing from Willowgate Activity Centre offering views of Elcho Castle and Kinnoull Hill, from the river.

Upon return to Willowgate Activity Centre visitors are encouraged to visit their facilities to try out an activity or some of the home made cakes at their café.

Now in its third year, the boat trips are the result of collaboration between Perth & Kinross Council and the Tay & Earn Trust, designed to promote the regeneration and use of the city’s key waterway from two seasonal pontoons, one located near the Fergusson Gallery in Perth city centre and the other at Willowgate Activity Centre, 15 minutes down river.

Booking is now open for trips from 16 May to 15 September.

Trip options and booking details can be found at perthcity.co.uk/boating-on-the-tay.

It is also possible to book in person at Willowgate Activity Centre. For more details about Willowgate Activity Centre visit willowgateactivitycentre.co.uk.

Depending on the choice of trip, prices start at £25 per adult for a 50 minute return trip. Under 3s go free and concessions are available. Due to the tidal nature of the river, the trips will run at different times.

This provides ample choices to explore the beautiful river first thing in the morning, during the day or into the early evening.

The programme of boat trips offers a great opportunity for tourists and residents to view the city from a different perspective whilst showcasing the potential of the river to commercial operators.

Convener of Environment & Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Angus Forbes said: ‘It is exciting to see the Tay boat trips return for the third year in a row. The trips have proved to be a success among both locals and visitors to the area and we expect this year’s season to be even more successful.

‘Offering boat trips on the river is a fantastic way to attract visitors to the area to experience the wonderful views of the city and its surrounding landscape from a different perspective.’

Perth & Kinross Council and the Tay & Earn Trust are working in partnership with David Anderson Marine who provides the Broughty Ferry Trips and TayMaritime Action (Taymara) who provide the Perth trips.

He said: ‘We are delighted to have the support of their qualified crews and vessels to safely provide wonderful experiences for everyone that books a boat trip on the River Tay.’

Simon Clarke, chairman of the Tay & Earn Trust said: ‘The Trust is proud to work together with Perth and Kinross Council to bring our two types of river trips to the public once again this year.

‘It is our hope that the river journeys allow locals and visitors alike to gain unique experiences by discovering the nature and wildlife in and around the River Taythrough our fun and educational trips.

‘We encourage travelers to bring a picnic on the journey and sit back and enjoy the commentary of the knowledgeable crew about the river and surroundings.

‘In addition to the fantastic views and sounds from the river, travelers may also be lucky enough to see some of the river’s wildlife like ospreys, seals and otters.’