Turus Mara
Turus Mara
4.5
Boat ToursEco ToursFerriesSightseeing ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
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About
Turus Mara run seabird and wildlife Cruise-tours to Staffa, the Treshnish Isles and Iona. Get some Puffin Therapy on Lunga in the Treshnish Isles, wonder at the awe inpiring Fingal's Cave and experience the serenity of Iona, cradle of christianity.
Dervaig, Scotland
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Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
401 reviews
Excellent
309
Very good
67
Average
13
Poor
9
Terrible
3
Charles HC
Tadcaster, UK7 contributions
Aug 2020
We booked a family trip (including a 16 year old and an 8 year old) to visit Staffa & the Treshnish Isles in August - a trip / experience for which I have nothing but praise.
Booking online was very simple and easy but equally the team were contactable and friendly on the telephone. In fact on the day we were scheduled to go I lost my car keys but rung up with only 30 mins until we were due to sail and was immediately moved onto the following days trip (with more concern for me an my keys than their own disruption)
On the day access to the boat at Ulva is easy and obvious and with the Covid situation cleanliness, social distancing etc were all catered for and prioritised. At no time did we feel unsafe or packed together on the boat.
On the trip we spent the first 30 minutes being surrounded by dolphins leaping around our boat and then on the way to Staffa we also saw several Minke Whales and porpoises off little Corosay . This took much longer than the original schedule given all the wild life on show but the crew were more than happy to take the time and extended the length of the trip to account for this.
We had a full hour on the isle of Staffa - plenty of time to see the cave, wander round the island and have a picnic.
We then cruised round the various Treshnish isles with the crew pointing out all the many sea birds, seals and other wild life interspersed with the history of the islands before returning on the North side of Ulva and passing several Sea Eagles on the way home.
Throughout the crew were very friendly and accommodating and I would highly recommend this tour which you feel has a much more personal and customer friendly approach than some of the other equivalents.
We were lucky with the wildlife but will definitely consider booking again particularly if we are on Mull in June / July when you also stop on Lunga to see all the Puffins nesting at very close hand.
We had a mixed age group party and all enjoyed themselves thoroughly - thank you very much to Ian M and his crew.
Booking online was very simple and easy but equally the team were contactable and friendly on the telephone. In fact on the day we were scheduled to go I lost my car keys but rung up with only 30 mins until we were due to sail and was immediately moved onto the following days trip (with more concern for me an my keys than their own disruption)
On the day access to the boat at Ulva is easy and obvious and with the Covid situation cleanliness, social distancing etc were all catered for and prioritised. At no time did we feel unsafe or packed together on the boat.
On the trip we spent the first 30 minutes being surrounded by dolphins leaping around our boat and then on the way to Staffa we also saw several Minke Whales and porpoises off little Corosay . This took much longer than the original schedule given all the wild life on show but the crew were more than happy to take the time and extended the length of the trip to account for this.
We had a full hour on the isle of Staffa - plenty of time to see the cave, wander round the island and have a picnic.
We then cruised round the various Treshnish isles with the crew pointing out all the many sea birds, seals and other wild life interspersed with the history of the islands before returning on the North side of Ulva and passing several Sea Eagles on the way home.
Throughout the crew were very friendly and accommodating and I would highly recommend this tour which you feel has a much more personal and customer friendly approach than some of the other equivalents.
We were lucky with the wildlife but will definitely consider booking again particularly if we are on Mull in June / July when you also stop on Lunga to see all the Puffins nesting at very close hand.
We had a mixed age group party and all enjoyed themselves thoroughly - thank you very much to Ian M and his crew.
Written August 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeanie L
Preston, UK13 contributions
May 2022
This was our second trip to Staffa and Lunga withTurus Mara was as enjoyable as our first a year ago. Having watched the weather forecast we booked to do a trip on the Sunday (15th May) because it was showing as the best day of the week, and the forecast prior to this was correct with strong winds and rain almost every day. This meant we were unable to do the Big Bird trip we wanted to do , as it did not run on Sundays. However, as we set sail the rain arrived! This did not stop us from sitting on the top deck and admire the views as we sailed.. That's what waterproofs are for :). The stop at Staffa was not what we wanted, having visited Fingal's Cave already. It was very busy there with another tour company dropping off visitors numerous times while we were there, but once we got to Lunga, and across the slippery boulders from the boat to the grassy area, we were in heaven! The sun came out, we saw lots of puffins and we had a fantastic time.
The crew were fabulous, friendly and helpful, especially when landing on Lunga. The skipper deserves a mention as he was very amusing with his information he shared with us. Possibly lost on some, but he made me and my friends laugh.
The weather may not have played ball on the day, and was not as forecasted all week, but we were very lucky to go on the trip as I am aware a lot of folk had their boat trips (generally) cancelled due to wind and sea swells before and after we visited.
One thing I would say to anybody considering doing these trips and have not been before - wear sensible clothing - good footwear and waterproof clothes if the elements are unsettled. Also, please don't sit/lie/stand too close to the puffin burrows as they are so fragile! There are eggs/chicks and adults in the burrows that will come to harm if the burrows collapse.
Thank you Turus Mara for a great day.
.
The crew were fabulous, friendly and helpful, especially when landing on Lunga. The skipper deserves a mention as he was very amusing with his information he shared with us. Possibly lost on some, but he made me and my friends laugh.
The weather may not have played ball on the day, and was not as forecasted all week, but we were very lucky to go on the trip as I am aware a lot of folk had their boat trips (generally) cancelled due to wind and sea swells before and after we visited.
One thing I would say to anybody considering doing these trips and have not been before - wear sensible clothing - good footwear and waterproof clothes if the elements are unsettled. Also, please don't sit/lie/stand too close to the puffin burrows as they are so fragile! There are eggs/chicks and adults in the burrows that will come to harm if the burrows collapse.
Thank you Turus Mara for a great day.
.
Written May 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mistry13
Laurencekirk37 contributions
May 2021 • Friends
We went on a day trip to Lunga to see the puffins and then on to Staffa and Fingals Cave. Both of these were experiences of a lifetime and gave us memories to cherish forever.
We have done many boat trips over the years and this one was expensive. The boat isn’t kitted out really for sight seeing unless you can sit up on top. If you are stuck below the experience is more like being in a submarine with no windows as there are only 2 clear enough to see through. The price for such a great trip is fair, however a few touches would make it easier to swallow. Perhaps offer a softdrink and snack and improve the vision down below with better windows.
Be warned they say they accept dogs but will then charge you £15 for even a tiny dog that sits on your knee.
We have done many boat trips over the years and this one was expensive. The boat isn’t kitted out really for sight seeing unless you can sit up on top. If you are stuck below the experience is more like being in a submarine with no windows as there are only 2 clear enough to see through. The price for such a great trip is fair, however a few touches would make it easier to swallow. Perhaps offer a softdrink and snack and improve the vision down below with better windows.
Be warned they say they accept dogs but will then charge you £15 for even a tiny dog that sits on your knee.
Written June 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah T
5 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
The trip to Staffa is one not to be missed. The crew coped admirably with the current covid situation (face coverings, hand gel and social distancing). We felt safe and respected. We had time ashore to take in the beauty of Fingals cave and the rest of Staffa and time afloat to look at the puffins and surrounding geography. Even our dog was allowed to come along, making it the perfect day out for couples or families with older children.
Written July 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jackie M
28 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
Excellent day out visiting Staffa & Treshnish Isles (ashore on Lunga).
Many other tour boats also visit these islands & I would recommend going to Fingal cave first on Staffa - as track is quite narrow.
Fingal cave is just stunning & my highlight on Staffa. The close proximity to the puffins on Lunga the highlight there.
Handy hint - the cafe at Oban pier is excellent- can get a good coffee & breakfast & all food provisions needed for the day out on the boat.
Waterproof & warm gear a definite for 2nd half of our trip.
Crew very knowledgeable, coming onto the islands to point out wildlife and answer questions, plus very accommodating and considerate, with once rain started shifting passengers on another boat heading back to Ulva, giving them an undercover trip back & leaving more undercover spaces on our boat to make sure everyone was comfortable.
Communication before trip via phone & email excellent.
We arrived on the morning car ferry from Oban & easily managed the trip around to Ulva Ferry in under an hour.
Would highly recommend.
Many other tour boats also visit these islands & I would recommend going to Fingal cave first on Staffa - as track is quite narrow.
Fingal cave is just stunning & my highlight on Staffa. The close proximity to the puffins on Lunga the highlight there.
Handy hint - the cafe at Oban pier is excellent- can get a good coffee & breakfast & all food provisions needed for the day out on the boat.
Waterproof & warm gear a definite for 2nd half of our trip.
Crew very knowledgeable, coming onto the islands to point out wildlife and answer questions, plus very accommodating and considerate, with once rain started shifting passengers on another boat heading back to Ulva, giving them an undercover trip back & leaving more undercover spaces on our boat to make sure everyone was comfortable.
Communication before trip via phone & email excellent.
We arrived on the morning car ferry from Oban & easily managed the trip around to Ulva Ferry in under an hour.
Would highly recommend.
Written June 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NorthumberlandJulieR
Northumberland, UK244 contributions
Apr 2022
I deliberately left booking until the last minute as I didn't want to risk poor weather conditions. Not only was I lucky with the weather, the trip proved to be one of the ultimate events of my life. The expertise of the skipper is phenomenal and his fellow crew member was also very accomplished. Whilst they joked about the "special effects" the passengers gave them a round of applause when we safely left the island because the conditions were very challenging - but we were in no doubt at all that they would not have landed if it had not been safe to do so and we would have respected that decision. Even if you don't get to land and walk into the cave you get to see and experience the caves at close quarters and also see the puffins. I'm not quite sure how I can ever top this trip as it exceeded all my expectations. THANK YOU Turus Mara for one of the best days of my lfe.
Written April 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarah Huxtable
Cowdenbeath, UK86 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
Fantastic boat trip to Staffa last week! We went from Ulva Ferry on one of the afternoon sailings. The crew were very friendly, informative and funny. On the way to Staffa they pulled in close to another island and pointed out the seals there. They gave us plenty of time on Staffa to explore - myself and my husband did both the walk inside Fingal’s cave and also up on top of the island to spend time with the nesting puffins. It was so magical - I could have spend all day sat watching the lovely puffins! To start with I didn’t think we were going to see them as it was all quiet, but as we sat watching them a few came out of their burrows to see us, then we noticed more and more, some were flying in with mouthfuls of fish. By the time we headed back to the boat there were loads flying around the cliffs and also sat on the ground watching! It was a wonderful experience, very worthwhile and we felt it was good value for money. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys nature, who is fairly mobile! The steps up from the jetty are very steep and although it was a dry day when we went, I imagine that the rocky path around to the cave could get very slippery at times, so caution is required.
Written July 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Claire K
United Kingdom279 contributions
May 2023 • Solo
The day dawned rainy but the trip was confirmed. The hour long crossing from Ulva Ferry to Lunga was undertaken in lumpy seas which was an interesting experience. The boat was attached to a floating pontoon which was then rammed onto the boulders. These were very slippery when wet and needed to be negotiated cautiously. Whilst there the weather improved and it was dry. The island was alive with puffins which was wonderful. Rafts of these endearing birds were bobbing on the sea below the cliff. There were bunnies doing their best to help in the creation of burrows for their feathered neighbours. I saw many other sea birds such as fulmars and razorbills.. In the bluebells there were pipits. However I have reservations about some of the people who go there with babies strapped to chests and toddlers. Selfies were being taken with people lying on top of Puffin burrows. Puffins were prevented from going past people who did not stand back. I think it would be a good idea to have someone in authority present to gently remind people that wildlife comes first on a place such as this. No sooner had we left the island than the weather took a turn for the worse and we were unable to approach Staffa. It was too dangerous. The landing area had vanished under the waves and as for Fingal's Cave it was hardly visible.
Written May 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bob The Worm
1 contribution
Aug 2021
Went on an afternoon trip to Staffa with Turus Mara. While Staffa was spectacular, I'm not sure I could really recommend Turus Mara. The journey there and back was spoilt by the boat being overcrowded - far from Covid-safe. I'm know the last year has been incredibly difficult for operators like this, and I know they need to recoup losses made in that time, but it certainly detracted from what was a fairly expensive trip (it cost more than double the ferry to and from Mull with car! OK, I know CalMac is subsidised, but it puts it in perspective)
Written August 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Russell M
Gloucester, UK23 contributions
Aug 2020
This father and son partnership really do everything they can to deliver the boat trip of a lifetime. Nothing was too much effort and they extended the trip to ensure we got a close view of common dolphins, this after seeing 6 Sea Eagles in action. Very knowledgable people, a pleasure to spend time with them.
Written September 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bonjour, Jeannine. Que voudriez-vous savoir sur cette attraction ?
merci pour votre avis, cela donne envie de s'y rendre.
Pourriez-vous me renseigner où se trouve l'embarcadère et quels sont les horaires?
Les sorties comprennent-elles les 2 îles ou Est-ce 2 excursions différentes?
Grand merci à l'avance
Jeannine
Written February 1, 2020
We are staying at loch awe cabins and just wondering are well behaved dogs allowed? We are a family of 5 and wondering would I or my husband be left behind with the dogs. Thanks
Written August 4, 2019
The Turus Mara website says this about dogs.
"We are happy to carry dogs. All must be kept under strict control at all times and particularly when ashore. During the bird breeding season dogs are only permitted in a designated area well away from breeding birds."
I would email them directly with any other questions.
Written August 4, 2019
Hello,
Would the short Staffa trip be suitable for a three and seven year old?
Thank you!
Written April 9, 2018
We have many folk travel with us - from newborn to 90s - Staffa can be managed by most - certainly many children enjoy the trip with the care and attention of their parents! Hope this helps.
Written May 21, 2018
Sorry I missed this - no you cant I am afraid - they leave first week in August.
Written September 10, 2017
We're coming to Mull, staying near Loch Ba, for the last week of June. There are 6 of us plus a small and very well behaved poodle. I'd like to book a trip for us all to see Fingall's Cave and maybe puffins and Iona too. Is this a possibility. Should I book now or wait til I'm there?
Thanks, Sandie
Ps.... I really want to show off my beloved Scotland to my guests !
Written May 6, 2017
Hi there - we can certainly help! Its a fine time to see puffins - there are some on Staffa but loads more and lots of other birdlife in the Treshnish Isles! But of course it ts your call. I think doing Staffa Lunga and Iona all in one day is probably too much and think taking a day from Loch Ba to go down via the Ross of Mull to allow plenty of time for Iona is probably the best option. You can book all our trips via the Turus Mara website or call our number for more info. Probably booking on the week you are here would be ok but I cant guarantee trips wont be booked up in advance. Hope this helps, Colin
Written May 6, 2017
If I book and pay in advance, what is the situation if the weather is too bad to land ?
Written April 29, 2017
We had to reschedule from the Tuesday to the Friday as weather was bad but they advised 2 days in advance so they keep a watch on the weather.
Written April 29, 2017
Hi. We are planning a tour around Scotland next May/June and are looking at staying on Mull. While there we would like to do the tour to Staffa and to see the puffins at Lunga. My question is, is the tour suitable for small children? We would have our 3 year old (big for his age) with us and want to make sure he could access the itinerary with us.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Heather
Written June 2, 2016
Hi there - I am the skipper on Island Lass and it is our family business.
We carry many children every year to visit Staffa and the Treshnish Isles and in my view the tour is brilliant for some young children, but can be a little long for others - it really depends on the child!
Conditions at sea can be changeable - it would make sense to check on the likely conditions in advance of your trip if you have concerns.
Landing at Lunga on the low tide is a little challenging - it is a boulder beach - but is manageable for most. You always have the option of staying aboard and viewing the birds and the island from the boat.
The path on Staffa to Fingal's Cave is build on top of the collumns so up and down a little but is pretty simple for most. There is non slip path and handrail to hold onto.
Both boats have working toilets!
Written June 15, 2016
I've emailed and called multiple times and haven't received any answer. I purchased tickets for a Thursday morning Tour (4/21) and wanted to make sure you are still in business.
Written April 19, 2016
Hi - can you call 01688400242? Thanks
Written April 20, 2016
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.