Our unique trips are perfect for those who have never had an experience at sea or maybe you are a keen photographer or citizen scientist, hoping to record some local wildlife? Whatever your reason, our vessel ‘Seabird’ is incredibly stable and spacious, giving you the chance to experience the great sea air on our traditional wooden ship, once only used for fishing, she is now equipped with everything you need to feel safe and secure at sea. Its time to try something different and contribute to local marine conservation!
The Research & Education Vessel ‘Seabird’ is a beautiful wooden hulled traditionally built ‘Ringnetter’ type vessel, descended from the legendary sailing drifters of the late nineteenth century.She is fully licensed and inured to carry 12 passengers and 3 crew, including a fully qualified and competent skipper.
She is a roomy and powerfully built vessel of 40 tons displacement and 17 metres overall length. Originally launched in 1969 from the slipways of her Scottish builders, Weatherhead and Blackie of Port Seaton, she worked through all seasons as a Herring Ringnetter and as a general purpose fishing vessel up until late 2018.
A sturdy and able ‘small ship’ developed and built to sail safely through the unforgiving waters of Northern Europe, yet retaining the exquisite hull lines of the Norse tradition.
We are a not for profit organisation. All proceeds go towards maintaining and refitting seabird and running Citizen Sea. Our aim is to inspire others to contribute to citizen science and marine conservation.
There are 11 passenger tickets available with enough space on board to accommodate social distancing for all. Come alone or with your family and friends or even charter the vessel for yourself. We will provide life jackets, crew, a wildlife guide, binoculars, wildlife recording forms, cold and hot drinks and of course some biscuits! Trips are suitable for all ages ranging from 5 years and upwards. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult and all passengers must be confident in their level of fitness to board the vessel and remain in physical control at all times whilst sailing. Any underlying medical conditions, must be communicated by email at jen.firth@citizensea.org prior to booking.
Before booking, please keep in mind that we are at the mercy of the elements. We work with the wind, tides and sea state when planning our destination and journey.
We will welcome you at Bangor Marina at 7pm and return to port (all being well weather wise) at 9pm. Passengers are expected to arrive 15 minutes before departure and arrange travel to and from the Marina.
All trips are weather dependent and we will plan our route accordingly. Belfast Lough is renowned and protected as a Special Protection Area for birds. On leaving the marina you will sea Guillemots, Razorbills, Cormorants, Eider ducks, Gannets along with many other seabird species. The local seals usually venture near to investigate as they search for food in the lough. As the evening draws in and we head back to port we hope to experience some glorious sunsets and tranquil seas.
Every passenger will be provided with binoculars to help us record our local wildlife. We will teach you how to scan the sea and search for your favourite species.
When venturing out to sea, its important to be prepared for all elements. We recommend bringing layers of clothing to allow for sun, wind and rain (hopefully not!).
Sunscreen is always a must and when its a bit chilly we recommend a well fitting hat and gloves.
You are welcome to wear a face-mask in light of the current Corona Virus situation, however this is not necessary in an outdoor environment provided social distancing is maintained. We would also appreciate if you can bring you’re own filled reusable water bottle and coffee cup or flask. This minimises the risk to crew, but we are happy to provide cups when necessary. You may also bring your own antibacterial/viral hand gel as hand washing facilities are limited for using the toilet when necessary.
Free parking is available adjacent to the marina. Please meet outside the reception area at least 15 minutes prior to departure to be fitted with life jackets.