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..
The day
Our ultimate Lundy Island trip is a full day excursion.
Setting sail from Ilfracombe Harbour in the morning and returning in the late evening, this is a full day immersing yourself and exploring Lundy Island.
Departure is typically around 8am depending on tide times and weather. The crossing over to the island will take approximately 1.5 - 2hrs.
Meet Point: Kiosk 3
Check in 20 mins before and enjoy a complimentary hot beverage prior to departure!
Explore The Island
Explore life on the Island, take a dip or dine in the Marisco Tavern!
1.5 - 2hrs Crossing
Sit back and relax, taking in the sea air, keeping an eye out for wildlife!
Circumnavigation
Cruise around the Island exploring the barren west side & hear tales of piracy and smuggling!
Arrival at Lundy Island
Plan your unforgettable day with our friendly Kittiwake crew!
The order of the day depends highly on weather and tidal conditions!
THE ITINERARY
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
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!
