A popular tourist ferry taking passengers from Anstruther to North Berwick is set to return for a third successive summer season this weekend.
Following two successful years of sailing in the estuary, the Forth Ferry will once more offer a unique service between Fife and East Lothian from Sunday onwards.
The service was set up in 2015 to forge closer tourism links between the two prominent coastal locations, offering locals and visitors alike opportunities for great days out on both sides of the Firth of Forth.
The passenger-only 55-seat catamaran service lasts around 45 minutes and has proved popular in recent years – not only because it follows the centuries’ old pilgrims route for worshippers heading to and from St Andrews but also because it links two of Scotland’s great golfing locations, namely Fife’s east coast, including the Home of Golf at St Andrews, and East Lothian’s self-styled ‘Golf Coast’.
Colin Aston, managing director of Seafari Adventures which operates the route, is looking forward to setting sail again for 2017.
He said: “The Forth Ferry continues to be a great success and has received brilliant feedback since launching in 2015.
“There are some fantastic attractions in both East Lothian and Fife to enjoy, and we’re glad that we can provide this service to discover both sides of the water.”
The ferry has been a bit of a boon for businesses on either side of the Forth, particularly the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick which is highly supportive of the venture.
Tom Brock OBE, chief executive of the Scottish Seabird Centre, said: “It has been wonderful to reinstate the historic sailing route which was previously used by pilgrims on their way to St Andrews, and it continues to be a huge hit with our visitors at the Seabird Centre.
“The Forth Ferry benefits locals, visitors and communities on both sides of the Forth, and we’re looking forward to launching it on May 7 for 2017.
“We have updated some of the information on our itineraries for the new season and there are some great recommendations on the Forth Ferry blog.
“We are always looking for new contributions for the blog and would encourage anyone to get in touch who would like to feature.”
Bikes, golf clubs and buggies can be transported by prior arrangement, while well behaved dogs are also welcome.
