Bruce’s Cave Experience

Rathlin Island is six miles long, one mile wide, “L” shaped and six miles across the Sea of Moyle from Ballycastle. It is a rugged and picturesque island steeped in a rich history, vibrant mythology, maritime heritage and diverse wildlife.

Get onboard at Ballycastle and relax as our RHIB boat glides across the bay to explore the East coast of Rathlin Island. Our first sight is the Rue Lighthouse, then Ushet Port where you will be treated to the loud snorts, whistles and barks of the seals. Many laze on the shore but some more inquisitive seals will venture closer to the boat to investigate.

When we reach Bruce’s Cave you will be captivated by the sounds of the seabirds in the cave as well as on the rocks and water outside it. Seals are often seen in and around this cave as well.

Rathlin has long associations with both Scotland and Ireland. It once lay at the heart of the ancient Dal Riada Kingdom. Robert the Bruce, a 13th century Scottish King was exiled for fighting for his country’s freedom and took refuge in a cave on Rathlin Island. While there he pondered his next move and was inspired by a tiny spider’s determination to spin a web. The spider tried 6 times to swing to a nearby rock to secure his thread and failed, just as Robert the Bruce had been defeated 6 times in his pursuit to free Scotland from the English. On the 7th attempt the spider succeeded and Robert the Bruce resolved to return to Scotland.

Towering beside Bruce’s Cave is the East Lighthouse, steeped in history and featuring in old and modern literature. You will be treated to a magnificent view of Fairhead while returning to Ballycastle. This imposing cliff face towers above the sea and once seen you will not be surprised to know it featured in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Duration: 2 hours
Great for: Sight-seeing, family day out, adventurers, photographers, historians, film producers, wildlife enthusiasts
Private Charter: Only your group onboard with the Skipper
RHIB Experience: Some restrictions apply see Terms & Conditions
Book Now: Call/Text Lynn +44(0)7845 370231 to book or check availability

“Wonderful day that was very informative and beautiful but the best thing was the personal touch the Tim put into it all”

Gareth M.

“Family of 4 enjoyed seeing the puffins at Rathlin Island. We had great communication before the trip to confirm arrangements and everything was effortless. Can’t wait to go again – it was one of the best family experiences that we have ever had together. We will remember today for a long time. Great fun, learnt some history, appreciated the stunning scenery and got so close to such fragile nature. Truly fantastic day”.

Claire M.

“Tim and Sam absolutely made our holiday; from 5 star treatment on board, absolutely state of the art gear, they are professional and entertaining. We’re making a trip back to Antrim, for the sole purpose of having another trip with Abháinn Cruises! Highly highly recommended!!”

Elle B.

“Best adventure on north coast EVER ! Thank you Lynn for such fab customer service regarding booking etc and thank you to Ben for such a fun , exciting and knowledgable trip … we all totally loved it … we will be back ! Thank guys”

Finn

“Very knowledgeable skipper. Great at handling the boat. Super fast between points of interest and very willing to take us where we wanted to go. Fantastic day out and got to see things I never had before. Long lasting memories made”.

Ian Clarke