About the Port
Scattered off the Northumberland coast, the Farne Islands form a rugged cluster of islets long protected for their extraordinary wildlife. Puffins, guillemots, and Arctic terns nest in dense colonies each spring and summer, while a substantial population of grey seals hauls out on the rocky shores year-round. The islands also carry a quiet spiritual history, tied to St. Cuthbert, who lived as a hermit on Inner Farne in the seventh century, and to Longstone Lighthouse, site of Grace Darling's celebrated 19th-century rescue.
Access is by small boat only, weather permitting, with landings typically made on Inner Farne or Staple Island under conservation guidelines managed by the National Trust. There are no facilities beyond basic paths and a small visitor hut, so practical footwear and weatherproof layers serve well. The islands reward those seeking raw coastal scenery and close wildlife encounters over polished amenities.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Farne Islands.
Take a Boat Trip to Inner Farne
Small boats depart from Seahouses harbor for the roughly 20-minute crossing, landing where seabird colonies and nesting terns crowd the cliffs at close range. Book ahead, as sailings are weather-dependent and seats limited.
Watch the Grey Seal Colony
Cruise slowly past Staple Island or the outer rocks to see grey seals hauled out year-round, with pups typically appearing in late autumn. Wildlife guides aboard the boats point out haul-out sites and behavior.
Visit St. Cuthbert's Chapel
A short walk from the Inner Farne landing leads to this small 14th-century chapel marking the hermitage site of St. Cuthbert, a quiet counterpoint to the islands' wild birdlife and seascapes.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Farne Islands
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 23, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Wind | 27 | $19,800 | |
| May 9, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Wind | 11 | $10,320 | |
| May 20, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Wind | 11 | $9,840 | |
| May 31, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Wind | 11 | $9,920 | |
| Apr 26, 2028 | Silversea | Silver Endeavour | 12 | $12,400 |