One of the most exciting ways of seeing Ospreys at Rutland Water is to take a guided trip with members of the project team aboard the Rutland Belle. The idea is simple; we sail to the parts of the reservoir where we stand the best chance of seeing fishing Ospreys and, with a bit of luck, are rewarded with spectacular views. On many occasions we have enjoyed breathtaking views of the birds diving for fish very close to the boat, making it a trip to remember for those lucky enough to be on board.
Even on those rare occasions when Ospreys prove elusive, there is always a good range of the reservoir’s other wildlife on view. Recent highlights have included Arctic Tern, Fulmar, Sanderling and Knot. In spring there is also every chance of hearing singing Nightingales.
Evening Cruises
Each evening cruise begins with refreshments and an introductory talk at the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, Egleton (LE15 8BT). We then ask you to drive to Whitwell, where the Rutland Belle sets sail.
Saturday cruises meet at 3:45pm with the Rutland Belle setting sail at 5:15pm. Wednesday cruises meet at 4.30pm with the Rutland Belle setting sail at 6:00pm. All cruises last 1.5 hours and cost £18 per person (£12 for under 16s).
Dates for 2012:
Saturday 19th May Saturday 14th July
Saturday 26th May Wednesday 18th July
Wednesday 6th June Wednesday 25th July
Saturday 16th June Saturday 28th July
Wednesday 20th June Wednesday 8th August
Saturday 30th June Saturday 11th August
Wednesday 11th July Saturday 25th August
Dawn Cruises
In addition to the afternoon cruises, we also be run dawn cruises. The cruises depart from Whitwell Harbour at 6am for an hour and a half cruise. We’ll then arrive back at Whitwell for a well-earned breakfast at 7:30am. Early mornings are a magical time to be out on the reservoir, and if 2011 dawn cruises are anything to go by, we should be in for some spectacular views of fishing Ospreys. Tickets are priced at £21 for adults and £15 for children (under 16).
Dates for 2012:
Sunday 3rd June
Saturday 7th July
Saturday 21st July
Saturday 4th August
Birdfair Cruises
As usual we will be running a series of cruises during the Birdfair weekend towards the end of August 2012. Dates will be confirmed on the Rutland Water Nature Reserve and Birdfair websites when available.
How To Book
To book your place on an Osprey Cruise use the Event Calendar to check dates, availability and reserve your place(s). Alternatively, please phone 01572 770651 and ask for a member of the Osprey team or send us an e-mail with your preferred date and we will phone you back. Places sell out very quickly – so please book early to avoid disappointment!
We also offer Osprey cruise vouchers for both the dawn or afternoon cruises - a perfect Christmas or birthday gift! E-mail or phone for more information.
For more information about the Rutland Belle, check out their website.
