Tour Overview
Experience historic St Andrews, the beautiful East Neuk of Fife and the charming village of Falkland on our St Andrews Shore Excursion from Edinburgh.
Designed specifically for cruise passengers arriving at South Queensferry, this small-group excursion combines some of Fife’s most attractive coastal scenery with one of Scotland’s most famous historic towns.
Leaving South Queensferry, we travel across the Forth and into the Kingdom of Fife, enjoying views of the iconic Forth Bridge before following the scenic coastal route through the traditional fishing villages of the East Neuk.
We stop in Anstruther, where colourful boats, stone cottages and the historic harbour provide a wonderful introduction to this beautiful part of Scotland.
From here, we continue to St Andrews, where you’ll have approximately three hours of free time to explore at your own pace. Walk beside the world-famous Old Course, visit the historic university, discover the ruins of St Andrews Castle or simply enjoy lunch and wander through the town’s atmospheric streets.
Later, we travel to the conservation village of Falkland, nestled beneath the Lomond Hills. With its historic streets, connections to Outlander and magnificent Falkland Palace, the village offers a very different side of Fife before we begin our return journey.
With a maximum of 16 passengers, our St Andrews Shore Excursion from Edinburgh offers a relaxed and personal way to explore Fife while allowing plenty of time for your return to South Queensferry and your cruise ship.
From the fishing villages of the East Neuk to historic St Andrews and picturesque Falkland, this excursion combines coastal scenery, fascinating history and time to explore in one memorable day.
Why Choose This Tour
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✔ Designed for Cruise Passengers
Timed to fit cruise ship schedules with a planned return to port before departure.
✔ Small Group Experience
Travel in a comfortable 16-seat mini coach for a more personal small-group shore excursion through Fife.
✔ St Andrews & Falkland Village
Visit the home of golf and explore one of Fife’s most beautiful historic villages, with the option to visit Falkland Palace.
✔ Expert Driver-Guides
Our knowledgeable Scottish guides bring Scotland’s landscapes and history to life.
Cruise ship schedule for 2027
| Date: | Departs – Returns |
|---|---|
| 16/04/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 28/04/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 10/05/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 22/05/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 03/06/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 15/06/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 21/07/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 02/08/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 07/09/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| 19/09/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| Date: | Departs – Returns |
|---|---|
| 22/06/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
| Date: | Departs – Returns |
|---|---|
| 14/06/2027 | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Date: | Departs – Returns |
|---|---|
| 29/06/2027 | 10:00 – 18:00 |
Tour Highlights Gallery
Tour Route
Tour Itinerary
Departing South Queensferry
You’ll be welcomed by our port representative close to the cruise landing point at South Queensferry before meeting your driver-guide and beginning your journey into the Kingdom of Fife. Travelling across the Forth, enjoy spectacular views of the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Scotland’s most famous engineering landmarks.
East Neuk of Fife
Entering the Kingdom of Fife, we follow the scenic coastal route through the traditional fishing villages of Elie, St Monans and Pittenweem. With colourful harbours, stone cottages and sweeping coastal views, the East Neuk offers a wonderful glimpse into Scotland’s historic fishing heritage.
Anstruther
We stop in the attractive harbour town of Anstruther, the largest of the East Neuk’s traditional fishing villages. Enjoy time to explore the harbour, wander through its narrow streets or relax with a coffee while taking in the coastal atmosphere.
St Andrews
Arriving in St Andrews, you’ll have approximately three hours of free time to explore one of Scotland’s most historic towns.
Golf fans can walk beside the world-famous Old Course and see the legendary Swilcan Bridge, while history lovers may wish to visit the ruins of St Andrews Castle or discover the historic University of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university.
You’ll also have time to enjoy lunch, browse the town’s shops and cafés, or simply wander through its historic streets and coastal setting.
Falkland
Next, we visit the beautiful conservation village of Falkland, nestled beneath the Lomond Hills. Fans of Outlander may recognise the village square and Bruce Fountain, which appeared as Inverness in the television series.
Enjoy time to explore the village, with the option to visit Falkland Palace, a magnificent Renaissance royal palace closely associated with Mary, Queen of Scots.
Return to South Queensferry
After a memorable day exploring the Kingdom of Fife, we begin our return journey to South Queensferry. Your excursion is planned around your ship’s scheduled departure time, allowing plenty of time for your return to the port before sailing.
Tour Highlights
Forth Bridge & Fife Coast
Travel across the Firth of Forth with views of the iconic Forth Bridge before following the scenic Fife Coastal Route.
Anstruther Harbour
Stop in the charming harbour town of Anstruther and explore its picturesque waterfront and fishing village streets.
St Andrews – Home of Golf
Visit the world-famous golfing town where you can walk the Old Course and see the historic Swilcan Bridge landmark.
St Andrews Castle & Cathedral
Explore the dramatic ruins of St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral, two of the town’s most important historic landmarks.
Falkland Palace & Royal Village
Visit Falkland village and explore the Renaissance palace once used by Mary, Queen of Scots as her royal retreat.
Outlander Filming Location
Fans of Outlander will recognise Falkland village square and the famous Bruce Fountain from the TV series.
Timed around your ship’s schedule, this shore excursion offers a relaxed day exploring St Andrews, Falkland and the scenic coast of Fife before returning to port.
Ready to explore St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife?
Reserve your seat on our St Andrews & Falkland Shore Excursion from Edinburgh Port today.
Before You Go
Your shore excursion departs from South Queensferry Cruise Port
Hawes Pier,
South Queensferry,
EH30 9TB
Please arrive in good time before departure.
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure to allow your driver-guide to complete the safety briefing.
Final Check-in closes at 09:45.
If you arrive after this time we may not be able to accommodate you on the tour.
Your St Andrews & Falkland Shore Excursion from Edinburgh Port departs at 10:00.
The tour returns to Edinburgh Port (South Queensferry) at approximately 18:00.
Please note return times may vary slightly depending on traffic or weather conditions.
Passengers may bring one piece of luggage similar to an airline cabin bag, with a maximum weight of 15kg.
Suggested maximum size:
65cm × 45cm × 30cm
(25in × 18in × 12in)
You may also bring a small personal bag for items needed during the journey.
Due to vehicle weight limits this policy cannot be adjusted.
We regret that we cannot carry children under the age of 5 years on our scheduled tours.
- Travel in a comfortable 16-seat mini coach
- Air-conditioned vehicle with onboard air purification system
- Experienced local driver-guide sharing stories and local knowledge throughout the tour
- Entry to Falkland Palace (optional)
- Meals and refreshments
Scotland’s weather can change quickly, so we recommend bringing:
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers of clothing
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A camera to capture the scenery
Most places we visit accept card payments, but we recommend bringing some cash for smaller purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
This shore excursion departs from South Queensferry, the main cruise port for Edinburgh on the Firth of Forth. You’ll be welcomed by our port representative close to the cruise terminal, and full joining instructions will be provided after booking.
This full-day excursion lasts approximately 7.5 hours.
You will have around three hours of free time to explore St Andrews.
No. Entry to Falkland Palace is not included in the tour price, allowing guests the flexibility to explore the palace or spend time discovering the village.
Yes. Our tours operate in 16-seat mini coaches for a more personal experience.
Yes. There will be time to purchase food and refreshments during the day, including lunch in St Andrews where there are many cafés, restaurants and shops.
Scottish weather can change quickly, but the tour runs in most conditions. In fact, changing weather often makes the landscapes even more dramatic.
Yes. This shore excursion is designed specifically for cruise passengers arriving at South Queensferry port. We always allow plenty of time to return to the ship before departure. Your driver-guide monitors ship schedules and traffic conditions to ensure a smooth return.
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