About Clyde Sea Safaris
Explore Scotland’s West Coast Like Never Before
Clyde Sea Safaris is your gateway to unforgettable experiences on Scotland’s iconic west coast. Based at Rhu Marina, we operate professionally crewed RIB tours through the stunning Clyde Estuary and beyond. With years of commercial maritime experience behind us, our trips are thoughtfully crafted to showcase the natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife of this breathtaking region.
Whether you're a tourist, a local rediscovering your coastline, or a group seeking a private adventure, Clyde Sea Safaris offers a safe, exciting, and immersive way to connect with the sea.
We also offer a range of services outside of our stunning Coastal trips. From Corporate Hire to Water Safety and Film Production, we’ve got you covered. Keep Scrolling to find out more.
Who we are
"Ghost Rider"
Meet Ghost Rider, our Redbay 1050 Stormforce open Rib – a vessel built to withstand the elements and provide you with a safe, smooth ride. Here’s what makes her special:
Twin 300hp Suzuki 4-stroke outboards
Large inbuilt fuel tanks for a nautical range of 250nm at 28 knots
Garmin plotter with state-of-the-art Garmin Radar system
AIS vessel identification system
Multiple Icom DSC VHF radios for safety
Approved 12-man life raft, thermal protective aids, and first aid kits
We take every precaution to ensure your comfort and safety during your trip.
THE TEAM
Our Crew: Skilled, Certified & Committed to Your Safety
Helms - Not just Drivers - Seasoned Mariners
At Clyde Sea Safaris, our helms are among the most experienced in the industry. Every skipper holds a minimum of 500+ hours of commercial sea time, with our senior crew boasting instructor-level certifications and over 1,000 hours on the water. Their in-depth knowledge of the Clyde Estuary ensures your journey is both safe and memorable.
From the moment you book with our friendly shore team to the second you step aboard, we’re committed to delivering a professional, safe, and enjoyable experience at every stage of your adventure.
Front of House Team – Here to Welcome You Onboard
Our welcoming and knowledgeable front of house team is here to make your experience smooth from the very start. Whether you're making an enquiry, booking a trip, or arriving for your sea safari, our staff are fully trained to provide clear information and a warm, friendly welcome.
Visit Us In Person
Come and see us at Rhu Marina on our operational days. You're welcome to meet the team, view the vessel up close, and discuss which of our trips best suits your interests. We accept card payments on-site and are always happy to help you plan the perfect adventure on the water.
WHAT WE DO
Guided Sea Safaris & Coastal Cruises
Our signature tours offer something for everyone:
Coastal Cruise – A captivating 18-nautical mile journey through iconic landmarks including Dunoon, Holy Loch, Loch Long, and the evocative Sugar Boat wreck. Along the way, spot local wildlife like seals, seabirds, and occasionally dolphins in their natural habitat.
Sugar Boat Experience – Cruise across the tranquil waters of the Gare Loch to visit the historic Sugar Boat shipwreck near Helensburgh. Enjoy sweeping views of coastal villages and rolling hills as you absorb local lore and maritime heritage.
Sunset Safari – Available later in the year, this atmospheric evening cruise is perfect for photography lovers and peace seekers alike. Experience golden twilight over the Clyde, with chances to see wildlife bathed in a serene, glowing light.
Private & Group Hire
We offer exclusive boat hire for:
Birthday celebrations
Hen and stag parties
Family reunions
Small wedding party transfers
Group sightseeing days
Photography and wildlife trips
Our 6-passenger RIB can be booked for your group alone, and trips can be tailored to suit your timing, interests, and pick-up/drop-off preferences. Private hire gives you complete flexibility and a memorable, personalised adventure.
Corporate Experiences
Boost morale and build team spirit with a unique corporate day out on the water. Our boat trips make for a fun, scenic, and relaxing way to reward staff or entertain clients.
safety boat services
Our RIB is fully commercially coded and crewed by experienced maritime professionals, making it ideal for:
Open-water swims and triathlons
Water sports and sailing regattas
Filming and photography
Coastal events and inspections
Emergency training exercises
Available for short-term or long-term hire, we can provide on-water safety cover, personnel transfer, and logistical support as needed.
film production services
Clyde Sea Safaris has supported TV, streaming, and film productions on the Clyde, including work with Netflix, where our vessel has been used both as a crew platform and an on-screen prop. We provide reliable crew, safe vessel operations, and on-water access tailored for cinematographers, drone teams, and marine coordination.
BOOK YOUR Tour
Coastal CRUISE
Embark on a breathtaking journey along a scenic route that spans approximately 18 nautical miles, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and maritime heritage. This route takes you past a series of iconic landmarks, including the charming coastal town of Dunoon, the historic Holy Loch—once a key naval base—the tranquil waters of Loch Long, and the evocative sight of the Sugar Shipwreck, partially submerged and steeped in local lore. Along the way, keep a lookout for an array of aquatic wildlife, from playful seals to graceful seabirds, as you glide through their pristine natural habitat. This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and history lovers alike, promising unforgettable views and a deeper connection with Scotland’s coastal wonders.
SUGAR BOAT CRUISE
Step Aboard for a Scenic Cruise to the Iconic Sugar Boat Shipwreck.
Departing from Rhu Marina, this historic and memorable cruise takes you across the tranquil waters of Gare Loch toward one of the Clyde’s most fascinating sights—the Sugar Boat shipwreck, a haunting reminder of maritime history lying just off the coast near Helensburgh. As we cruise along the picturesque shoreline, enjoy sweeping views of rolling hills, charming coastal villages, and the rich natural beauty that defines this part of Scotland. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a relaxing adventure, this tour offers a peaceful yet captivating glimpse into the region’s past and present.
SUNSET CRUISE
Experience the Magic of a Sunset Safari on the Clyde Estuary.
Available later in the year, our Sunset Run offers a truly unforgettable evening on the water. As day fades into twilight, cruise through the stunning Clyde Estuary and witness the sky come alive with golden hues reflecting off the shimmering sea. This atmospheric journey showcases the rugged beauty of Scotland’s west coast, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and even the occasional dolphin, all set against a backdrop of historic landmarksand untouched coastal scenery. Whether you're chasing the perfect photo or simply unwinding in nature’s glow, this serene and scenic sea safari promises an unforgettable way to end your day.
