Etive Boat Trips - Oban

Etive Boat Trips: An Unforgettable Coastal Experience

For those seeking an engaging and informative adventure along the dramatic West Coast of Scotland, Etive Boat Trips presents a truly unique opportunity. Located at Dunstaffnage Marina, in the picturesque village of Dunbeg, Oban (PA37 1PX), this reputable tour operator offers expertly guided excursions that combine stunning scenery with fascinating wildlife encounters and, crucially, contribute to important conservation research. The company’s consistent high ratings—averaging a remarkable 5/5—reflects a commitment to exceptional service, knowledgeable guides, and memorable experiences for all visitors.

About Etive Boat Trips

Etive Boat Trips specializes in providing a range of boat trips designed to showcase the natural beauty and biodiversity of the West Highlands. They are primarily focused on offering tours that emphasize sustainable practices and actively support scientific research. The team, led by experienced professionals, prioritizes the well-being of marine life and the preservation of the local environment. Their dedication to responsible tourism is a key differentiator, attracting environmentally conscious travelers alongside those simply seeking an unforgettable day out.

Location and Accessibility

The marina location at Dunstaffnage is ideal, providing easy access to the waters of Loch Etive and beyond. Guests will find the facility well-equipped and convenient. For those traveling by car, a dedicated wheelchair-accessible car park is available, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can participate fully in the excursions. The marina also accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, offering flexibility for all visitors.

Excursion Highlights

While the specific itineraries may vary depending on weather conditions and wildlife sightings, Etive Boat Trips consistently delivers a diverse and rewarding experience. A significant element of their tours centers around skate catch and release fishing, undertaken in collaboration with conservation researchers. This program isn’t just about catching fish; it’s a vital component of ongoing scientific studies aimed at understanding skate populations and promoting their sustainable management. Guests actively participate in the tagging and release of these magnificent creatures, gaining firsthand knowledge of the research process.

What to Expect on a Trip

• Dolphin Spotting: The waters around Loch Etive are frequently home to playful dolphins. Experienced guides skillfully navigate the area, maximizing the chances of encountering these intelligent marine mammals.
• Mackerel Fishing: Opportunities to try your hand at mackerel fishing are often included, providing a taste of traditional Scottish angling.
• Skate Fishing & Release: As previously mentioned, this is a core element of the trips, offering a unique and educational experience.
• Coastal Scenery: The dramatic coastline of Loch Etive is a visual spectacle, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, secluded bays, and picturesque settlements.
• Wildlife Observation: Beyond dolphins and skate, guests may also spot seabirds, seals, and other marine wildlife.

Testimonials & Reviews

Etive Boat Trips has garnered a consistently positive reputation, as evidenced by its impressive 41-review Google My Business rating. Feedback frequently highlights the competency and accommodating nature of the guides, Kyle and Sam, and the overall quality of the tours. Many visitors commend the company’s commitment to conservation and the opportunity to contribute to scientific research. The descriptive feedback suggests a strong sense of connection to the environment and a genuine passion for sharing its wonders with others. Many guests express a desire to return, solidifying the company’s appeal.

Contact Information

For further information and to book your Etive Boat Trips adventure, please visit their website at etiveboattrips.co.uk. Alternatively, you can reach them directly by phone at 7789795932. They are committed to providing excellent customer service and assisting you in planning your perfect coastal excursion.

Key Features: Sustainable tourism, wildlife encounters, conservation research, knowledgeable guides, accessible location.

👍 Reviews of Etive Boat Trips

Harry G.

5/5

Etvie Boat Trips with Kyle and Sam was an amazing experience. Both were very competent and accommodating. Trips focus was Skate catch and relase fishing for conservation research. Many highlights including dolphins, mackerel fishing, and Skate fishing. Definitely get in touch if you're in town!

David M.

5/5

Booked a Private charter for four family members. Kyle and his crew were excellent hosts. Very knowledgeable and we saw some stunning wildlife including seals and Golden eagles. Hot refreshments during the cruise were most welcome and having Kyle pop out of the cabin so that he could tell is, in person, about things during the trip was much better than having a lecture over the intercom. Also having a catamaran made the trip much more enjoyable as the boat was very stable. Would definitely recommend.

Cowpig F.

5/5

Spectacular boat trip up Loch Etive with Kyle and Rosie. Unforgettable scenery, seals, rapids, and a little bit of fishing. Beautiful day with calm winds and a glass like Loch. The photos really do speak for themselves. Kyle and Rosie couldn't have been nicer and truly made the trip a magical experience. The highlight of our trip to Scotland! Highly highly recommend any of their tours. A much better personalized and authentic experience than any of the other larger tours in downtown Oban are able to offer.

Carol M.

5/5

Really competent and safe Captain Kyle Dods. We really enjoyed his knowledge about Loch Etive and the stories he told about peoples who inhabited its shores on days gone by. A special moment when he took us to see my MacIntyre family cairn on the western shore of the lake. Thank you!

Andrew I.

5/5

Etive Boat Trips have become an annual fixture of ours when we have a gathering of our son and his friends. This is our third trip with Kyle and his co-skipper and predecessor Chris. This year Kyle varied his set Kerrera trip to include a fishing and swim stop at the “Creags” off Lismore on the way back. We were also lucky enough to see a minke whale, porpoises and dolphins leaping from the water. Kyle is very attentive and supplies tea and coffee. A great day out.

Chloe L.

5/5

We had a great experience with Etive! The weather wasn’t cooperating for our initial 3 hour tour but they were very kind and accommodating based on conditions. We will definitely use them again if we return to the area

PJ 4.

5/5

Brilliant trip, not rushed. The captain and his mate were a goldmine of information. The captain was constantly on the radio with other boats as to the location of dolphins, porpoise, and eagles so he could point them out to us. 5 star rating isn't enough

Martin R.

5/5

Having visited oban and its surroundings we decided upon a coastal excursion via yourselves. Booked on line after a brief chat with the boat owner and settled on a 4hr trip. We were astounded by the beauty of the west coast and its wild life. Eagles,sea birds seals and porpoises. The skipper was really friendly and knowledgeable. You will not beat this way of discovering scotland. It really is recommended and we have already booked our cottage rental for 2025. We will use Etive boat trips again. Thankyou Etive boat trips for making our 1st visit to scotland the most memorable ever❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👍👌