ST DAVIDS SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Across St Brides Bay to Skomer: Two Hours Among 10,000 Pairs of Puffins and Coastal Cliffs
A two‑hour boat trip from St Justinian's to Skomer Island that delivers dense seabird colonies, seals and dramatic Pembrokeshire coastline — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Across St Brides Bay to Skomer: Two Hours Among 10,000 Pairs of Puffins and Coastal Cliffs.
From St Justinian’s you cross St Brides Bay on a two‑hour sail to Skomer Island, a compact wilderness of sheer cliffs, nesting seabirds and, in spring, a carpet of bluebells and campions. The trip concentrates wildlife and coastal spectacle into a short outing: ten thousand pairs of puffins, large colonies of Manx shearwaters, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants and gannets, plus seals, porpoises and the occasional dolphin.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A seabird spectacle — 10,000 pairs of puffins
Skomer supports extraordinarily dense seabird colonies; the trip gives prolonged views of puffins at their burrows and large numbers of guillemots, razorbills, Manx shearwaters and gannets, while seals and porpoises are commonly seen around the rocks.
Sheer cliffs and spring carpets of bluebells
Skomer’s coastline is dramatic: sheer cliffs, hidden bays and, in spring, a vivid carpet of nodding bluebells and campions across the island that contrast with the sea and seabird colonies.
Knowledgeable skippers and family‑friendly access
Trips are led by experienced skippers who narrate the coast and wildlife; the outings are pitched at families, schools and nature lovers, and Aquaphobia welcomes school groups, couples, solo travellers and dogs aboard.
What the day feels like
What the two‑hour boat experience feels like
You board near St Justinian’s and set out across St Brides Bay on a compact, two‑hour circumnavigation toward Skomer. The rhythm is alternately close coastal passage and slower, observational stretches as the skipper moves into the north haven to show the bird colonies before returning through Ramsey Sound. Wind, spray and sea air frame long, binocular‑filled looks at seabirds on cliffs and rocks, and there are frequent opportunities to spot seals and porpoises.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should take precautions.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The regular offering runs from April onward; the advertised outing is a two‑hour sail between St Justinian’s and Skomer.
Meet at the Aquaphobia booking office; free parking is provided at the booking office and a free minibus transfers guests between the office and the boat — note parking spaces are limited.
Bring warm, waterproof layered clothing and trousers/shoes you don’t mind getting wet, sunscreen, a spare change of clothes, and protective waterproof bags and straps for cameras and binoculars.
The sea can be changeable; if you suffer from motion or sea sickness consult a doctor or pharmacist about medication and prepare accordingly.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the boat trip?
The outing is a two‑hour boat trip.
Where do I meet for departure?
Meet at the Aquaphobia booking office; free parking is available at the office and a free minibus takes guests to and from the boat.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes — dogs are welcome to join the trip.
Are cameras and binoculars allowed?
Yes — you can bring cameras and binoculars at your own risk; use a protective waterproof bag and the attached straps to prevent loss overboard.
Is the trip suitable for school groups and children?
Yes — the trips are described as ideal for families and school visits are explicitly welcomed.
What if I get seasick?
The sea is unpredictable and swells may occur; if you suffer from motion or sea sickness consider medication or consult a doctor or pharmacist before booking.