The programme of Seal and Birdwatching Cruises will once again take place in 2026, aboard the Boston Belle, sailing into The Wash and River Welland, departing from and returning to Boston’s Sluice Bridge Lock PE21 9JU.
Approximately 336 passengers sailed with us in 2025.
Each cruise will last approximately four/five hours {dependent on tides and prevailing weather conditions on the day}.
The Wash is one of the UKs most important estuaries for wildlife. The coastline has some of the best saltmarsh and mudflats in the country supporting thousands of wildfowl and waders.
On our cruises we see these habitats from the seaward side and get up close to the birds. Most years we see over 100 species, averaging about 40/50/60 species per cruise. Sightings of waders include Plovers, Dunlin, Knot, Redshank and Godwits. In addition birds-of-prey are often seen, plus wildfowl. Harbour Seals, Hares and Deer are often seen.
Our cruises provide interest to all, from the avid birder to anyone with a genuine interest in nature. Each cruise is lead by local RSPB Volunteer guides who can help with bird identification as well as pointing out places of local interest.
Light refreshments are available on board the Boston Belle {which also has a toilet, access thereto is via a short flight of stairs } to purchase using cash.
Unfortunately the boat is not suitable for those with severe mobility issues or children under the age of 5. Please contact us to discuss your individual needs.
Cruise dates for 2026. These are the remaining dates to choose from.
Saturday 19th September 9-20am
Saturday 3rd October 8-40am
BOOKING YOUR CRUISE.
This is essential and can be done in two ways.
1. Via the booking office at Blackfriars Theatre and Art Centre, Boston, PE21 6HP
Either call in and see them in person or telephone 01205-363108.
The Blackfriars Box Office has a non-refundable booking fee of £1 per transaction {not per person}.
If the Booking Office is closed for holidays etc, the online booking service can be used to book your cruise.
2. Via the 24 hour online booking service.
If you purchase on-line there is a percentage booking fee charged by Ticketsource {approximately 7%} . If the RSPB subsequently cancel the trip then this cost will be refunded to you along with the ticket cost. Please click either of the links to access the Booking Site.
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=blackfriars&category=guided-tour
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/boston/boston-belle-rspb-day-trips
Please note that Customers who cancel their cruise 28 days or more before the sailing date will receive a Voucher in respect of a future cruise, or an opportunity to rebook on a future cruise.
Clients who cancel within 28 days of the cruise date will not be entitled to a refund.
All/any refunds are via Blackfriars.
Prices for 2026 are as follows…
RSPB Adult Member £24 {non-member £30}
RSPB Child Member £12 {non-member £15} A child is under 16.
RSPB MEMBERS…. Please bring your current RSPB membership card with you.
Some further cruise information:
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time {see above}, which is governed by the tide. Weather and tide conditions may also affect the time that the boat returns to the Marina.
-the above times may vary by a few minutes due to weather and tide conditions on the day.
Due to the tides, we are unable to wait for latecomers.
Please allow yourself plenty of time to reach the departure point {Boston Marina} as Boston’s traffic conditions is heavy and unpredictable.
Please wear appropriate clothing for the trip. Weather conditions can be changeable during the cruise. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars {and a bit of loose change to support our onboard raffle!}. There is no room for scope or camera tripods on board.
Unfortunately the Boston Belle may not be suitable for people with severe mobility issues as the transfer from quayside to boat may involve a steep step depending on tide water levels.
Only Assistance Dogs are allowed on board .
No smoking or vaping allowed on board.
The Boston Lock Café on the quayside is usually open for refreshments {but the RSPB advise that you contact them direct or look at their website for further information as regards opening times etc.}.
Seal, Spoonbills, Great White Egret and Black-tailed Godwit photographs taken by RSPB Volunteer Jeremy Eyeons.
