Will I see whales, dolphins, sharks or puffins on the trip?
2009 was yet another good year for sightings of dolphins, whales, porpoise and basking sharks as well as the Sea Eagles and Golden Eagles which are resident in our area. Both common and bottlenose dolphins were regularly sighted and we had good numbers of minke whales as well as our once-a-year sighting of a Sunfish! Our trips to Canna and Rum see Sea Eagles/Golden Eagles on most days as well as many other types of seabirds including Puffins, Manx Shearwater, Skuas, Gannets, etc. Many of our guestbook comments give an indication of what can be seen on our trips.

Will I see seals?

On the Cuillins/Coruisk trips, this is virtually guaranteed. There is a resident population of 150-200 seals many of which are hauled out on the rocks and islands beneath the mountains every day. On the Canna, Rum and Eigg trips you are likely to see Atlantic Grey Seals and some harbour seals.

Do I need warm clothing?

Yes, remember the AquaXplore is travelling at around 25 knots (46 km/h) so it's important to wrap up warm. Water/ windproof suits are provided for use on board together with headbands, goggles and lifejackets, but remember if you are walking ashore you need your own suitable clothing.

Can I bring my children?

We recommend a minimum age of 5 years but please remember that the trips to Canna and Eigg in particular involve considerable time on the boat. Both our boats have 3 parent and child seats for younger children. Please ask us if you have any queries on the suitability of any trip. There are discounted family tickets available.

Do I need to book?

If you wish to ensure your seats yes - due to limited seating, popularity and the range of trips and times offered. You can use our online booking form or telephone us (0800 731 3089 or 01471 866244). Some of our passengers do just arrive without booking but this can often mean the trip going (or gone!) is already full or is not the trip preferred. Please remember some trips board at 9am so early booking for these trips is essential.

When do you operate?

Our season for normal scheduled trips is April (or Easter if earlier) to October but if you wish to enquire about a trip or charter at other times please contact us. For individual trip departure times please go to "Boat Trips" page and then click "Book this Trip Now" - the relevant times will be displayed.

How much luggage can I take?

On scheduled trips - one small back pack per person. NB: Walking poles must be removed and handed to the skipper before boarding; they will then be stowed safely. Additional luggage, by prior arrangement only.

Do I need to be fit?

Reasonable fitness/agility is required on this type of boat. Seating is individual motorcycle-style pod seats which are very comfortable. Our passengers range in age from the very young to the very old!

Can I take my dog?

We are sorry but AquaXplore trips are not really suitable for dogs.

Do you ever cancel trips?

Yes, your safety and comfort is our main concern so it is sometimes necessary to cancel trips if we feel conditions are unsafe. If you are travelling from far on the day of departure, we suggest you call on the Freephone number for an update on conditions and circumstances.

What happens if my trip is cancelled?

If AquaXplore / Bella Jane Boat Trips has to cancel your trip we will refund any payment in full or, if you prefer, book you on to another trip when availability allows.

What happens if I fail to turn up? Can I cancel my booking?

If you have made a confirmed booking you will be charged for your booked seats. If circumstances arise where you wish to cancel your booking we will endeavour to resell your tickets but please remember that we cannot guarantee being able to do this, especially if it is only shortly before the trip.