About the event

One of the most exciting ways of seeing Ospreys at Rutland Water is to take a guided trip with members of the Osprey project team aboard the Rutland Belle. We sail to 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 breath-taking views of the birds diving for fish, making it a trip to remember. Even on those occasions when Ospreys prove elusive, there is always a good range of the reservoir’s other wildlife on view. Highlights have included Common and Arctic Tern, Little and Great White Egrets and swifts, swallows and martins to name just a few.

This cruise will begin at Whitwell Harbour (LE15 8BL), where the Rutland Belle sets sail for an hour and a half cruise on Rutland Water. There will be a live commentary pointing out things of interest, and providing information about the osprey project and the reservoir. Members of the osprey team will be on board to help you get the best out of your trip. A light breakfast of tea/coffee/juices and sweet pastries will be served on-board. (Please indicate any special dietary requirements by giving us a call on the number below).

As part of your Osprey Cruise ticket, we also welcome you to join a knowledgeable member of the Rutland Osprey Project team, who will be offering an introduction to Ospreys talk at 2pm on the day of the cruise from the Lyndon Visitor Centre. If you are interested in starting your Osprey experience day with this exciting talk, then do head over to the Lyndon Visitor Centre and make yourself known to a member of staff.

In addition to your cruise place you will also receive a 20% discount on the permit entry price to the nature reserve on the day of the cruise. Nature reserve permits cover the Egleton (LE15 8BT) and Lyndon (LE15 8RN) sites of Rutland Water and with nearly 40 hides there is lots to see and do to fill a day. The permit includes parking at the reserve. 

All parking costs at Whitwell are covered by your cruise booking – we will issue tickets on the cruise for use at the exit barrier at Whitwell car park.