ULTIMATE LUNDY ISLAND WILDLIFE & HISTORY
THE ULTIMATE DAY OUT
At the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Bristol Channel lies the most remarkable place.
An island of treasures, 3 miles long, 1/2 mile wide and an unspoilt haven for wildlife, both above and below the waves. Lundy Island lies 24 miles west of our home port of Ilfracombe, and was Britain's first statutory Marine Nature Reserve. The island is home to over 200 Atlantic grey seals and the Southwest's largest seabird colony. Depending on the time of year and weather conditions expect to see Puffins, Guillemots, Razorbills, Oyster Catchers and our favourite, Kittiwakes, with their raucous call.
Higher up on the plateau the possibility of Japanese Sika deer, Soay sheep and death-defying feral goats perched precariously on the cliff face. At sea level we should see the fun loving Atlantic grey seals, many varieties of jelly fish and with luck, dolphins and porpoises, especially on the crossing.
Lundy is a place steeped in history from pirates, shipwrecks, treason and even a corrupt MP with the most ingenious smuggling operation. From the Norman Conquest to the present day all will be revealed as we cruise in comfort and style to the island, and explore the hidden treasures along the foreshore, and high above on the plateau from vantage points inaccessible from the land. This will be a day to remember!
LUNDY PIRates
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Lundy Island was a notorious haven for pirates and smugglers who exploited its strategic location and rugged terrain. The island's isolated position and numerous hidden coves made it an ideal base for maritime criminals who would intercept merchant ships traversing the busy shipping routes between England and Ireland.
Pirates like "Black Jack" Henry Blaize and various local smuggling gangs would use the island as a strategic point to store contraband goods such as brandy, tobacco, and silk, which they would then secretly transport to the mainland, often evading the customs authorities. The island's rocky landscape provided perfect natural hiding spots for stashing illegal goods, and its small population meant that local residents were often complicit in or dependent on these illicit activities, creating a complex ecosystem of maritime lawlessness that persisted for decades.
COME WITH US..
Photographs by Rebecca Douglass & Alice Rainger
SAFE WILDLIFE OPERATOR
What is the Marine Wildlife Awareness Accreditation Scheme (MWAAS)?
The North Devon UNESCO Biosphere and Lundy Marine Wildlife Aware Accreditation Scheme is like a badge of honour for local, environmentally- friendly businesses. It’s an initiative aimed at recognising and promoting the businesses and organisations that demonstrate a commitment to both sustainable practices and the protection of marine wildlife in our North Devon UNESCO Biosphere.
The accreditation scheme evaluates and certifies businesses based on their efforts to;
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minimise environmental impact;
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support marine conservation efforts, and;
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promote responsible tourism practices.
The day
Our ultimate Lundy island tour is a full day excursion.
Our epic journey begins bright and early as we set sail from Ilfracombe Harbour, with our adventure kicking off around 8am (weather and tide permitting, of course!). The journey across takes about 1.5 hours - plenty of time to kick back, relax, take a read of our seal code of conduct and soak in the breathtaking views!
Once we arrive at Lundy Island, our awesome skipper and crew will pick the perfect spot to kickstart the day. Usually, we pick up a mooring in the landing bay, stick the kettle on and go from there!
In no particular order:
Gannets Bay - Seal Colony
Brazen Ward - Civil War Gun Battery
Three Lighthouses - North, South & Old Light
The Quarries and Quarry Beach
Mousehole and Trap - Rock Formation
Marisco Castle - Ancient Monument
Montagu Steps - Wreck Site
The Battery - Gun Emplacement
Jenny's Cove - Puffins, Guillemots and Razorbills
Devils Slide - Rock Feature
Depending on how the day unfolds, you’ll have around 2 hours to wander the island, soak in its charm, and maybe even sip a pint at the local tavern! (or lunch!)
WHAT SHALL WE BRING?
Please be prepared for a full day at sea and variable conditions the open water crossing is approximately 1.5 hours.
Please bring adequate food and drink supplies for the duration of the trip as landing cannot be guaranteed. We are delighted to offer complimentary hot drinks throughout the day and maybe a biscuit if the crew haven't polished them all off!
A camera is a must and if it’s in your phone we can charge it, so you don’t miss a thing!
We are sorry but the one thing that you can't bring on this trip is your dog. All other Kittiwake trips are dog friendly but given the abundant wildlife on the island Lundy is dog free.
Other than that come as you are, we will ensure your trip is a memorable one and for all the right reasons! :-)
Ps. We have a toilet on board!
Suggested Kit List
- Swimming Costume
- Wetsuit
- Towel / Dryrobe
- Food & Drink To Last A Day
- Appropriate Footwear
- Dry Bag
- Camera
- Sea-sickness Prevention
- Spare Warm Clothes
- Waterproof Clothing
- Suncream
- Any Medication
For More Information Please Contact Us Today!
