Some questions you may have about our boat and your trip:
What clothing should I take?
Bring warm clothes, hats, jumpers, fleeces, jackets and sensible footwear. Gloves are recommended if you suffer from cold hands.
Are there any Covid 19 restrictions?
We request that customers wear a face mask when inside our small booking office.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, we have small lifejackets for children. Make sure they wrapped up well; hats are of particular importance. On our tours outside the harbour limits we recommend children are 4+ years. For younger children (not babies) we can provide 30 minute harbour cruises that includes the bay if sea condition permit. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
How many passengers do we carry?
The boat is licenced for up to 12 passengers. On the longer 3 hours tours to Beatrice wind farm and oil rigs or the Pentland Skerry Islands we normally restrict this to 10 passengers.
When are your sailing times?
Our sailing times are variable depending on customer demand, available passenger numbers and sea conditions. As we can provide various tours lengths, we try our best to accommodate customer requests and fit these into our daily plans. The sea conditions play a significant part in our sailings. We operate on a very beautiful and stunning scenic coastline but it can be exposed to winds. So we have to watch the forecast carefully and plan a few days in advance. For instance plans for a 3 hour tour may be ditched due to adverse wind from the North but we could then switch to 90 minute tours operating to the South. The secret is to contact as soon as possible. We will then advise on the possible options and keep in touch with you.
Should we book in advance?
Yes we thoroughly recommend you contact us well in advance. This can be via telephone, text, email, facebook or web page enquiry. We will then maintain contact with you and advise available sailing time and tour availability bases on weather, seas and passenger demand. Of course you are free to just turn up at our booking office without notice and see what is available.
When should we arrive prior to the agreed sailing time?
Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to sailing.
Where is your booking office?
Our office is contained within a small blue portable cabin around the corner from the Wick Harbour Authority office. And next to the Coastguard Station. This is only about 1 minute walk from the marina entrance gate.
Do you provide free parking and toilet facilities (including disabled)?
Yes we do. Parking is normally available immediately across the road from our office. With toilets next to the parking area.
Can passengers with mobility restrictions join your tours?
Normally this is possible. There is a hydraulic lifting arrangement available to us on the marina. This allows passengers to be transferred from their wheelchair to the boat. Our staff are trained for such special needs. Please call us us for more information.
Is there a cafe or restaurant nearby?
Yes. We recommend the Wickers World which is on the harbour front about 2 minutes walk away. Check their menu and opening times here. https://wickers.world/services/
What if I feel unwell?
Let the crew know if you become sick or unhappy. If necessary we will go back to shore and drop you off. We do carry first aid kit, water and sick bags. But because of the open air experience and the visual sensations of being up close to nature we very rarely experience seasickness amongst our passengers.
What if I have a medical condition?
It is important that the skipper knows of any medical condition you may have so that he can tailor the trip to your needs.
What if the weather is bad?
In Caithness, we have our micro-climate. Sometimes it can be raining inland, while out on the coast we’ll have bright sunshine! Or there may be high winds on shore but, within the shelter of the coastline, it can be very quiet. We have a detailed knowledge of local weather and tide patterns and, while we can’t always guarantee the sunshine and calm seas, we can ensure a safe, enjoyable and exciting trip.
If in doubt you can check the forecast for Wick online.
How to we pay?
We accept cash or cards (not Amex). We do not take advance payments except for a small deposit if your are intending to charter the boat.
Do you provide private charters?
Yes we do. The private charter allows you to have private groups up to 12 passengers. It will be a minimum of 1 hour charter with 15 minute increments after that. See our web page on charters.
Do you provide discounts for family groups?
Sorry we do not. But we do provide discounts for schools and youth organisations wishing to charter the boat.
What if the trip is cancelled?
Occasionally we do have to cancel trips because of unsuitable weather. In these circumstances, a full refund will be given.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes we do. This has proved to be very popular. If you do not live locally we simply take your card details over the phone and post the leaflets to your desired address.
What marine wildlife will we see?
Although seals, dolphins, etc., are often seen we cannot guarantee sightings of marine wildlife. There is always plenty of seabirds. Especially during the breeding season April to late July.
Will we see puffins?
These can normally be seen from mid April to early July.
Can we take pets onboard?
Sorry this will not be possible. Our office staff can normally keep an eye on pets if left inside a vehicle next to our office.
Anything we’ve missed?
If there’s anything you’d like to ask us that we haven’t mentioned here, please call us or send us an email and we’ll be happy to help.
