9 Ships in Scotland That You Shouldn't Miss

Join the Geo Explorer for an exciting tour of the East Caithness coastline. Exploring caves, Whaligoe Haven, castles, geos, natural arches and much more. Close up views of seasonal nesting birds and marine wildlife. Informative commentary throughout.

The SS Explorer is a historic ship located in Leith Docks in Edinburgh. Built in 1955 as the first purpose built Scottish marine research ship. This extraordinary piece of engineering heritage is a time capsule into life at sea between the 1950’s and 1980’s. The cabins are almost exactly as they were when the ship was decommissioned in 1985, complete with TV’s, phones and life jackets. See the difference between how the crew and officers lived. The SS Explorer Preservation Society intends to restore as much of the ship as possible, including a working main engine and create an exhibition and visitor museum ashore next to the ship. If you are interested in a tour of the SS Explorer please email us to arrange this. Unfortunately due to the historic nature of the ship it is not suitable for those with mobility issues as the many stairs inside are very steep. We are working on ways around this, but at the minute our only solution is a video tour on our website.

Step aboard The Queen's former floating palace and experience this iconic 5 star attraction for yourself. Rated Scotland's Best Attraction for 12 years running and in TripAdvisor's UK Top 10 for the last 5 years, Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world. Sailing a million miles on a thousand official visits, during 40 years in service, the Royal Yacht played host to glittering state banquets and official receptions, but was also home to the Royal Family and crew of 220 Royal Yachtsmen. Explore Britannia's highly accessible 5 decks with highlights including the elegant Royal Apartments, Crew's Quarters, Engine Room and stunning Royal Deck Tea Room. Highly accessible for wheelchairs and buggies. Open year round .Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh city centre (local buses every 10 minutes - 11, 22, 34 and 35 to Ocean Terminal).

Please note, HMS Unicorn is currently operating with reduced opening hours. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for any updates. HMS Unicorn is one of the UK's most unique visitor attractions and a real treasure in the city of Discovery! A fascinating journey through time, we will guide you through the ship’s journey from a Georgian warship to becoming Dundee’s Royal Naval base during both World Wars. Built in 1824, she is the 3rd oldest ship still afloat in the world today and the most original old ship in existence. Come aboard for the unique opportunity to explore all four decks of the ship and get hands on with knot tying, try out our hammocks, learn about our armament and more! Take a tour of the ship using our brand-new guidebook, or if you're lucky, a guided tour from one of our fantastic volunteers before finishing off with a visit to our gift shop.

A visit to Glenlee takes you back in time to experience what life was like on the high seas. Visit the galley, ring the bell, and explore the depths of the ship. Where did she sail? What cargo was transported around the globe? What was it like to command a ship in mid-ocean? Experience a fun and exciting day out, and discover what life was really like aboard a tall ship. Restored to her former glory, Glenlee is one of only five Clydebuilt steel sailing ship still afloat, and the only example in the UK. The Tall Ship Glenlee is an independent museum, dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Glenlee and the maritime history of the area for the benefit of the local community and visitors to Glasgow. Be sure to visit our souvenir shop, and enjoy a tasty lunch in our newly refurbished cafe. Booking is not required. In line with current restrictions, we have a one-way system in place. Certain areas of the ship are closed temporarily. Masks are required in all indoor areas.

MADE IN DUNDEE | DESIGNED FOR ADVENTURE Discovery Point is home to the world famous Antarctic research vessel RRS Discovery. This award-winning visitor attraction tells the story of the Discovery, from her beginnings in Dundee in to her amazing Antarctic expedition and her voyages thereafter. Follow in the footsteps of Captain Scott and his heroic team at Discovery Point! Find out about the Heroes of the Ice who braved the harsh conditions of the Antarctic and hear their stories first hand. As you explore the self-led museum at your own pace you will: Enter the shipyard and find out how and why Discovery was built Learn about the first voyage of Discovery to the most inhospitable place on the earth Walk in the footsteps of Heroes and climb aboard one of the most incredible ships ever built Find out about ‘Scott of the Antarctic’ and explore the crews quarters and the Officers Wardroom Discover more about the ships voyages and journeys after The Discovery Expedition. Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique Discovery themed items or your very own cuddly toy Emma Penguin. There is also a cafe on site with something for all tastes.

Built in 1953 and one of the last paddle steamers in Britain, you can walk around the ship and enjoy the views over Loch Lomond. Our engines are now 'in steam' for the first time in 39 years, come onboard and watch the engines & paddles move (not enough for us to sail just yet)!. We are now taking wedding & event bookings as we have just spent £1.1million on renovations so if you are looking for something a little different to show your family & friends enquire now about prices. We are now open Wednesday's to Sunday's from 11am - 5pm until the end of October. Admission is £3 per person with kids under 12 getting on for free. Plenty of kids activities to keep them busy! Our first 'In Steam' event of 2020 will be on Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August. Admission is £5 per person (kids under 12 free). All funds go back into keeping the ship running.