Voyages of Discovery (Ramsey Island)
Voyages of Discovery (Ramsey Island)
Voyages of Discovery (Ramsey Island)
5
Nature & Wildlife AreasBoat ToursEco ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Voyages of Discovery (Ramsey Island)
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
1,075 reviews
Excellent
1,002
Very good
50
Average
14
Poor
4
Terrible
5
jennycosens
Wiltshire, UK187 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Wow! What a boat trip! Thoroughly enjoyed it. Was slightly annoyed at the beginning as it states to arrive no later than half an hour before and that time was spent just waiting around for him to get organised and wait for other guests so seemed really pointless. Once on the boat (slightly late with timing) it was all forgotten and we absolutely loved it. The two tour guides were utterly brilliant and clearly loved their jobs (wish I had caught their names as they deserve recognition). Lots was seen, lots of facts given and questions were answered beautifully. Highly recommend this trip just expect a wait to start with due to the early arrival requested with no real explanation.
Written 7 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Firstly, thanks for taking the time to give us some feedback, and i'm thrilled to read you an enjoyable time.
Regarding arrival times, sorry to hear that found it to long a time to be waiting, but we are asking people to get there earlier this year, as we find it helps with organizing the social distancing aspect, as the sooner we can get you sorted we can keep you safely away from other people from other groups.
Ramsey Island this time of year, is an incredible place to spend time, and so glad we got you out.
Hope to see you again soon.
Best wishes.
Written 14 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andy B
Atherstone, UK133 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
There several options for trips with Voyages but this is for the evening 1 1/2 hour trip to watch the Manx Shearwater coming in to roost.
St Justinian’s lifeboat launch, where you board the RIB, is less than 10 mins out of St. David’s. The roads are quite narrow around here with passing places so it may take you longer. There are a few free parking spaces and porta loos too. There is also chargeable field car park but I don’t know the cost.
The meeting point is just down from the car park area where there is also a small cafe with picnic benches. Here you sign in and don your life vest.
The RIB is boarded beneath the lifeboat launch down some steep steps and the boarding itself requires reasonable mobility.
After comprehensive safety instructions we sped off across to Ramsey. The ride itself is worth the cost. We were lucky enough to be on the right point of high tide to experience the standing waves off Ramsey with kayakers expertly navigating the treacherous waters. This though meant that Harbour Porpoise were not on the cards as they are usually seen at low tide.
We moved around Ramsey with the skipper and guide pointing out the wildlife and geological features as well as some of the history of the island.
Several Grey Seal were spotted in the water and the odd early pup could be seen far up some of the coves away from the high water. The skipper then took us to a small shingle beach where several females were under the watch of a dominant male. Here we received excellent close up views as some investigated this bright orange interloper.
We headed round to the west of the island getting great views of a pair of Peregrines before heading out to open water to watch for the Shearwater heading back to roost. Unfortunately, they don’t come in early, in great numbers, if the sky is clear and the sun is still shining. We did see plenty however with the skipper taking the RIB at speed with the Shearwater parallel to us. Great views but there was only one winner and the birds left us for dust, or should that be spray.
Fantastic value trip with a great sunset on the way back in. We had a longer off shore dolphin trip booked the next day too, which has a different review.
St Justinian’s lifeboat launch, where you board the RIB, is less than 10 mins out of St. David’s. The roads are quite narrow around here with passing places so it may take you longer. There are a few free parking spaces and porta loos too. There is also chargeable field car park but I don’t know the cost.
The meeting point is just down from the car park area where there is also a small cafe with picnic benches. Here you sign in and don your life vest.
The RIB is boarded beneath the lifeboat launch down some steep steps and the boarding itself requires reasonable mobility.
After comprehensive safety instructions we sped off across to Ramsey. The ride itself is worth the cost. We were lucky enough to be on the right point of high tide to experience the standing waves off Ramsey with kayakers expertly navigating the treacherous waters. This though meant that Harbour Porpoise were not on the cards as they are usually seen at low tide.
We moved around Ramsey with the skipper and guide pointing out the wildlife and geological features as well as some of the history of the island.
Several Grey Seal were spotted in the water and the odd early pup could be seen far up some of the coves away from the high water. The skipper then took us to a small shingle beach where several females were under the watch of a dominant male. Here we received excellent close up views as some investigated this bright orange interloper.
We headed round to the west of the island getting great views of a pair of Peregrines before heading out to open water to watch for the Shearwater heading back to roost. Unfortunately, they don’t come in early, in great numbers, if the sky is clear and the sun is still shining. We did see plenty however with the skipper taking the RIB at speed with the Shearwater parallel to us. Great views but there was only one winner and the birds left us for dust, or should that be spray.
Fantastic value trip with a great sunset on the way back in. We had a longer off shore dolphin trip booked the next day too, which has a different review.
Written 28 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm so glad you had a great trip and the seals and pups are a wonderful sight. We pride ourselves on our skillful skippers and knowledgeable crew. The boat ride in itself is great fun.
Written 28 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vicky P
1 contribution
Aug 2020
Fantastic 2.5 hour wildlife boat trip. Absolutely over-whelmed to see seals, porpoises, seabirds and even Minke whales. The boat was extremely well-managed by the skipper despite fairly rough conditions and torrential rain. The guide was also very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and happy to answer questions, This trip was the highlight of our week in Pembrokeshire. Thank you.
Written 23 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, and of course, I'm thrilled to read that you had such an enjoyable time out with us.
Our offshore voyage offers and incredible opportunity to get out and see all the local wildlife, and I'm so happy to read that you managed to pick up Minkie Whales!
We look forward to seeing you again,
Best wishes.
Written 24 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
obermeister
Altrincham, UK22 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
This has to be one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve had on a boat. The organisation was first class (in spite of the current pandemic). From start to finish the whole trip and procedures were explained fully making us all feel safe and secure. The boat trip itself was thrilling and exciting. The full power of the lifeboat engine was used as we cut through the water and bounced over the waves. As we arrived at the island we enjoyed watching seals and going into caves. The hosts were very good at their jobs explaining with enthusiasm, the history and nature of the island. All in all, this is one of the best hours we have spent on the boat and well worth the price of the ticket.
Written 29 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Firstly, thanks for taking the time to give us some feedback, and i'm thrilled to read you an enjoyable time.
Ramsey Island this time of year, is an incredible place to spend time, and so glad we got you out.
Look forward to seeing you again soon.
Best wishes.
Written 23 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Victoria S
Telford, UK387 contributions
Jul 2020
This is the second time we've enjoyed the Voyages of Discovery Ramsey Island trip, and it was even better this time around. They had good Covid-19 measures in place such as mandatory face coverings on board and social distancing on the boat. All of the staff were very friendly, especially the two on the boat (John and Tommy, or Tommy and John, I can't quite remember!). We saw lots of marine birds and seals, as we did last time - but on this trip we were also lucky enough to see dolphins and porpoises too! The skipper spotted a gannet circling and went to investigate, and sure enough, there was a school of dolphins who promptly started playing with the boat and swimming right alongside and under us. The porpoises were just swimming nearby - they don't play with the boat, but it was still spectacular to see. The trip involves travelling all the way around Ramsey Island, and you definitely get your money's worth. The boat races over the waves and is great fun (it felt totally safe). I sometimes suffer from seasickness, but you can't really get seasick on this boat. I'd recommend the Voyages of Discovery team to anyone, and the Ramsey Island trip is a great one to start with. Next time we want to visit Skomer Island to see puffins.
Written 3 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your kind words! It's great to read you had such an enjoyable time out with us. Ramsey Island is an amazing place to spend time, and I'm so happy you managed to see all the wildlife and even pick up with some Dolphins.
Also, thanks for the feedback regarding our COVID procedure, we have been working hard to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable this season, so again thanks for the positive feedback.
We will pass on your kind words to both John & Tommy.
Look forward to seeing you again.
Regards.
Written 6 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Neil P
Cardiff, UK2 contributions
May 2021
Best decision we made for our bank holiday weekend away, was to book onto the Shearwater Evening Voyage. We are a family of 6 so were a bit a bit cautious about spending so much money, but we shouldn’t have worried as it was worth every penny. We were taken around Ramsey Island by Captain, no sorry ‘Admiral’ Mike and his first mate. It was like being taken around the island by an uncle or alike, with Admiral Mike always super excited to do his utmost to manoeuvre the boat so that he could show us every little hidden highlight in every cave or cove. None of us fully realised just how up and close to the birds and seals we would get, or in that case how deep into the caves we would go. Well done Admiral Mike and your First Mate, our kids loved it. Great for all the family with our two teens enjoyed it just as much as us and our two under 10s. Already want to go back for a second journey.
Written 1 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words. It's always lovely to hear back from our customers and we will be sure to pass on your message to Mike.
We hope to see you again soon!
Regards,
Rhys Price
Written 6 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Louise C
1 contribution
Apr 2022
My husband and I took our 4 boys (aged between 10 and 4) on the 1 hour Ramsey Island trip.
We had originally booked for the Saturday morning slot but unfortunately when we turned up the boat ride had to be cancelled due to very windy conditions and huge waves. However Voyages of Discovery managed to book us onto a trip the next morning and the weather was kinder to us.
I found Voyages of Discovery easy/friendly to deal with and the boat site was easy to find/park at.
The 'skipper' and the 'tour guide' were both absolutely fantastic and really added to the whole experience. They were both very knowledgeable and the facts that they told us during the trip were fascinating - it helped that you could hear their passion as they spoke about it.
We managed to see plenty of birds plus two different groups of seals. In addition to the wildlife, the island itself is fascinating with it's history and geological formation.
There was one 10min stretch on the way home where the conditions got a little 'fruity' (to use the skipper's expression) - the waves were very big and we did end up getting quite wet (highly recommend waterproofs as you never know what the sea is going to throw at you)! However, the skipper's control of the RIB was next to none. I felt very safe at all times, despite the conditions, and you could really feel how under control he had the boat.
Will absolutely be booking another tip if we return to Pembrokeshire in the future!
We had originally booked for the Saturday morning slot but unfortunately when we turned up the boat ride had to be cancelled due to very windy conditions and huge waves. However Voyages of Discovery managed to book us onto a trip the next morning and the weather was kinder to us.
I found Voyages of Discovery easy/friendly to deal with and the boat site was easy to find/park at.
The 'skipper' and the 'tour guide' were both absolutely fantastic and really added to the whole experience. They were both very knowledgeable and the facts that they told us during the trip were fascinating - it helped that you could hear their passion as they spoke about it.
We managed to see plenty of birds plus two different groups of seals. In addition to the wildlife, the island itself is fascinating with it's history and geological formation.
There was one 10min stretch on the way home where the conditions got a little 'fruity' (to use the skipper's expression) - the waves were very big and we did end up getting quite wet (highly recommend waterproofs as you never know what the sea is going to throw at you)! However, the skipper's control of the RIB was next to none. I felt very safe at all times, despite the conditions, and you could really feel how under control he had the boat.
Will absolutely be booking another tip if we return to Pembrokeshire in the future!
Written 28 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your great review and I'm glad you had a wonderful trip in the end. Your crew Rich and Bert are very knowledgeable and fun. The RIB ride is really exhilarating and as you found the sea can be a bit 'fruity' We hope to see you again very soon.
Written 29 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rhys T
3 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
We took the 1.5hr evening boat ride around Ramsey island. We saw seals in their plenty and Shearwaters flying by. The boat trip was the perfect mix of sightseeing, interesting local information and a fast spin across the water. As a family of 4 with 2 teenagers (13&15) it was the perfect tour. Mike and Gemma were great guides. Mike, the skipper, was in absolute control of the vessel, we couldn’t wish for better - worth every penny, highly recommend.
Written 23 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for the kind words about the trip and our crew, we're so glad that you enjoyed learning about the local area and seeing the wildlife. Hope to see you in the future!
Written 24 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Patrick F
1 contribution
Jun 2021 • Friends
Chris and John were amazing!!
4 of us came down to St. David's for a holiday and wanted to do something a bit different and cannot recommend this boat trip enough!
We did the Ramsey Island Tour and the hour flew by. The knowledge and passion of both John and Chris shone through with great, engaging commentary and a lovely touch of humour.
A great trip for our week away and would love to go on other trips they have!
4 of us came down to St. David's for a holiday and wanted to do something a bit different and cannot recommend this boat trip enough!
We did the Ramsey Island Tour and the hour flew by. The knowledge and passion of both John and Chris shone through with great, engaging commentary and a lovely touch of humour.
A great trip for our week away and would love to go on other trips they have!
Written 30 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Georgie B
2 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
Went on the 1 hour Ramsey island tour with Tommy and John. Got to see the seals, jellyfish, a peregrine, porpoise and a vast array of sea birds.
The tour guys were very insightful and delivered the information in a comedic way about the islands history.
Very well spent morning on the ocean around the island.
Would 100% recommend to anyone wanting a little speed, picturesque views and a great nature experience !
The tour guys were very insightful and delivered the information in a comedic way about the islands history.
Very well spent morning on the ocean around the island.
Would 100% recommend to anyone wanting a little speed, picturesque views and a great nature experience !
Written 16 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi,
We're so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your trip and had a good time with our crew! Hope to see you again in the future!
Written 20 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
are there dolphins at the moment in june?
Written 8 June 2019
We have run a few of our Offshore Voyages this season and have sighted Dolphin and Minkie whale. We schedule these trips to run daily from the end of May until the end of September.
Written 16 June 2019
Are there age restrictions? Could I bring a 5 month old and a three year old?
Written 4 May 2018
An old question, but for anyone else who is wondering this, we took a 4 year old and an 8 month baby and that was fine; the skipper wasn't concerned about it. The baby had their own lifejacket and sat on my wifes lap, a quick breast feed at the start and she slept through it. Do get seats at the back, rather than the saddles in the front.
Written 11 September 2020
Hi Sophie,
We allow dogs on the Ramsey Island Voyage as long as you are happy they will be well behaved. Please just let us know that you have a dog when you book.
All the best,
Rhys
Written 16 April 2017
I hear that Voyages of Discovery have a new disabled access boat Viking Surveyor. Where does this boat leave from ~ my husband would not be able to manage all those steps at StJustinian.
Written 13 September 2016
Hi sorry only just seen this. To be honest I don't really know . If you go to the booking office in st David's I'm sure they will be able to help you.
Written 20 September 2016
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