NorthLink Ferries Hosts Unique Wildlife Cruise

Thursday 19th May 2016

Northern Isles nature lovers are set to experience a trip of a lifetime this Sunday (22 May) in celebration of Orkney Nature Festival.

NorthLink Ferries is offering islanders and mainland visitors the chance to board MV Hamnavoe from Stromness for a wildlife cruise around the coastline of the scenic island of Hoy, offering a unique opportunity to spot birds and marine life.

Passengers will also be able to enjoy a range of local produce and live folk music on board the ship, which departs from the NorthLink Ferries’ terminal in Stromness at 1pm, before returning at 4pm.

Speaking of the event, Stuart Garrett, Managing Director at NorthLink Ferries, said: “We are looking forward to celebrating the finale of the Orkney Nature Festival once again. Our wildlife cruise is a unique chance to travel the full length of Hoy’s spectacular coastline whilst sampling some of Orkney’s best produce and listening to local music.

“We’ll also have live commentary available helping passengers to learn more about the points of interest on route and the fascinating wildlife that can be spotted along the way.”

Now in its fourth year, Orkney Nature Festival is a week-long event celebrating the island’s vast wildlife. Coordinated by the local RSPB Scotland team, this year’s programme offers visitors a range of activities and events including snorkelling trips, sketching workshops and beachcombing.

Alison Nimmo, RSPB’s Community Engagement Officer for Orkney, added: “Orkney is an amazing place for wildlife, and the Nature Festival is a chance to make the most of that.

“Our partnership with NorthLink Ferries delivers an exciting finale to this year’s programme giving visitors the perfect opportunity to learn more about the fascinating wildlife that we are so lucky to have here in Orkney.”

Tickets for the wildlife cruise can be purchased directly at NorthLink Ferries’ terminals or by contacting the NorthLink Ferries reservations line on 08001114422 (free from UK landlines and mobiles).

Tickets are priced at £15 for adults and £10 for concessions.

For more information about NorthLink Ferries or to make a booking, visit www.northlinkferries.co.uk or call 08001114422 (free from UK landlines and mobiles).