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Docked peacefully by the water, the SS Explorer isn’t just a ship—it’s a story frozen in time. This historic vessel speaks of sea journeys, exploration, and Scotland’s maritime legacy. Climb aboard, take in the views of the city skyline, and let your imagination sail beyond the present—into the golden age of adventure.
Everything you need to know about The SS Explorer
Near the SS Explorer in Edinburgh, The Royal Edinburgh Hotel stands out with its prime location overlooking the Firth of Forth. Just a 10-minute walk from the ship’s dock, this luxury hotel offers panoramic sea views, elegant rooms, and a fine-dining restaurant serving traditional Scottish cuisine. Guests can enjoy complimentary parking and easy access to public transit, making it ideal for day trips. The hotel also hosts exclusive historical tours led by crew members, offering deep insights into the vessel’s century-long legacy as a symbol of Scottish maritime heritage.
Travel from central Edinburgh to the SS Explorer via the City Bus 201 or Edinburgh Trams to the Leith Waterfront stop—just a 5-minute walk to the dock. If driving, use Google Maps to navigate to "SS Explorer, Leith," where dedicated parking is available nearby. Multiple public car parks surround the area. Alternatively, the Edinburgh Tram system provides direct access, minimizing travel time. Visiting during early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds and witness the stunning sunset over the Firth of Forth, enhancing your experience with a touch of Scottish serenity.
Near the SS Explorer, visitors can join guided historic maritime tours that reveal the ship’s rich past and legendary voyages. During summer months, the vessel hosts nighttime light shows and live music events, blending visual art with Scottish sea culture. Photography enthusiasts should visit at sunset to capture dramatic silhouettes of the ship against the shimmering Firth of Forth. Exclusive activities include limited-edition souvenirs and interactive cabin walkthroughs, offering an immersive journey into authentic 20th-century seafaring life.
Stay at The Balmoral Hotel, a five-star luxury hotel located just a 10-minute walk from the SS Explorer. Renowned for its Victorian-era architecture and opulent interiors, this iconic property offers panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth. Its prime location makes it ideal for exploring the historical significance of the SS Explorer and experiencing authentic Scottish culture. The hotel also provides exclusive guided tours and private access to nearby heritage sites, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and discovery.
Travel from central Edinburgh via 15-minute walk along Princes Street to Edinburgh Castle Square, then follow the Firth of Forth Promenade to reach the SS Explorer dock. Alternatively, take bus routes 300 or 400 to the "Ocean Terminal" stop—just a 2-minute walk away. For greater convenience, use Uber or Citylink Airport Shuttle, which offer direct drop-off within 8 minutes. Many hotels, including The Balmoral Hotel, provide complimentary shuttle services specifically for guests, ensuring hassle-free access to the vessel’s mooring area.
Near the SS Explorer, visitors can join immersive guided tours hosted by the Edinburgh Maritime Museum, uncovering the ship’s 19th-century cargo history and Scotland’s maritime trade legacy. Weekly harbor markets feature local artisans, fresh seafood stalls, and live folk music, celebrating coastal traditions. Guests may also book themed dinner events aboard the vessel, enjoying traditional Scottish cuisine in original cabins accompanied by live classical performances. All experiences are located in the heart of Edinburgh Port Area, directly adjacent to the SS Explorer, offering an authentic and unforgettable connection to Scotland’s seafaring heritage.
See what other travelers say about The SS Explorer
Staying at The Scholar was an absolute delight! The hotel is just a short walk from Edinburgh Castle, with bus stops only five stops away—just a quick 8-pound Uber ride if you're in a rush. The atmosphere is calm and elegant, and it feels like part of the University of Edinburgh’s exchange center. The property consists of several three- to four-story buildings, and my room was in a charming older wing—comfortable, spacious, and beautifully maintained. The cleanliness stood out immediately—everything was spotless, and the bathroom felt more like a boutique hotel than a standard accommodation. The shower setup was impressive, with strong water pressure and high-quality fixtures that reminded me of top-tier international hotels. There’s also a coffee machine in the room—perfect for a cozy morning brew. But what truly blew me away was breakfast: a full à la carte experience. I got to choose between classic Scottish haggis, vegetarian haggis, and other delicious options. The flavors were authentic and well-prepared—so good I almost wanted to extend my stay just to try everything again. It’s rare to find such thoughtful details in a city hotel, and this place delivers on comfort, convenience, and culinary quality. Highly recommended for travelers who value authenticity and a little extra luxury.
Staying at The Scott Hotel truly felt like living inside a historic castle—there’s an undeniable atmosphere that lingers long after check-out. The interior design is elegant and thoughtfully curated, with spacious rooms and well-appointed common areas that exude charm. Every detail matters: the staff are attentive, warm, and professional, while the thoughtful touches—like finely crafted slippers, individually wrapped makeup wipes, and premium tea bags, hot cocoa mix, and cookies—show real care for guest comfort. The bedside bottles of sparkling and still water add a nice luxury touch. Cleanliness is outstanding; everything feels fresh and meticulously maintained. I stayed just two nights, and honestly, it wasn’t nearly enough time to fully soak in the experience. This hotel truly shines on a slower-paced trip where you can savor every moment. While the campus setting is peaceful and quiet, it might feel a bit isolating if you were studying here. Public transport is convenient—buses stop right outside, running frequently day and night—but if you're not used to relying on transit, it could be a minor inconvenience. I regret not hiking Arthur's Seat, which is just a short walk away—what a missed opportunity! Overall, this isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a destination in itself. Exceptional service, modern amenities, and a unique character make The Scott Hotel a standout choice for anyone seeking authenticity and comfort in Edinburgh.
Our stay at City Retreat Edinburgh ApartHotels was truly disappointing. The only redeeming feature was the shower, but everything else fell short. The room had a strong musty smell, and it felt visibly unclean—dust on surfaces, grime on the floor, and even the bedding seemed worn. It's located in a basement unit with steep, narrow stairs that felt eerie at night, especially since the outdoor light wasn’t working. Despite notices about noise and respecting guests above, we were repeatedly woken up by loud noises from the floor above. The wallpaper was peeling off in several spots—something I’ve photographed for proof. Overall, this place failed to meet basic standards of cleanliness and comfort. The housekeeping team needs urgent improvement, and the building clearly needs renovation. This experience ruined our trip to Edinburgh. If you're looking for a decent stay, avoid this property.
Staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of the city, just steps away from major attractions and public transport hubs. I found it incredibly convenient to explore Edinburgh on foot or by train. The staff were warm, professional, and always ready to help. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, well-prepared, and varied, with both classic English options and international choices. Everything was delicious and served with a smile. From the comfortable rooms to the thoughtful touches, this stay exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh.
I was completely surprised to find this was a guesthouse— the room was huge and incredibly well-equipped. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, from the modern furnishings to the fully stocked amenities. It's located just minutes from the city center, making it super convenient for exploring Edinburgh on foot or by public transit. The neighborhood is lively with great cafes and shops nearby. With such a spacious, comfortable stay at this price point, it’s an unbeatable value. I’ll definitely be returning and recommending it to friends.
Staying at Princes Street Suites was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Edinburgh’s main attractions, including the Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat, with easy access to public transit. What truly amazed me was the building’s unique design: stepping into the basement via the elevator revealed a striking view of towering structures outside the window, almost like being in a modern urban landscape. Inside, the room was immaculate, well-equipped, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and a spacious bathroom. Everything matched my expectations—and then some. The overall experience was exceptional, and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a convenient, stylish, and thoughtfully designed stay in Edinburgh, this is the place to be.
I was originally booked into the Indigo Hotel in Edinburgh, but due to unexpected renovations and no prior email notification about room changes, I was redirected to The Scotsman Hotel at check-in—literally across the street. Honestly, I was frustrated at first, as it felt like a downgrade in both price and quality. But stepping into The Scotsman completely changed my mind. From the moment I arrived, the welcome was warm and genuine—the staff were attentive without being pushy, even offering a complimentary champagne upon arrival. My room was cozy and beautifully decorated, with a calming colour scheme that made it perfect for unwinding after a long day. I also appreciated how they went out of their way to explain all the hotel’s amenities, including their stylish cocktail bar. It’s a real gem with a classy vibe, though it closes early at 11 PM, which is a bit disappointing if you’re looking for a late-night drink. Overall, despite the initial stress, this stay turned out to be one of the best parts of my trip. Great location, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere—definitely worth staying at again.
Staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre was a fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from major attractions, shopping streets, and restaurants. The room was spacious, modern, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The only downside was the Wi-Fi connection, which was extremely weak and often unreliable. I ended up using my mobile data for most of the time. Despite that small issue, the hotel offers excellent value for money, great service, and an ideal spot for exploring the city. Highly recommended for travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort.
Staying at The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. What truly stood out was the outdoor terrace—overlooking the heart of Edinburgh’s skyline with stunning views that made every morning and evening feel special. The service was exceptional too—staff went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail, making us feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. Every interaction felt personal and thoughtful. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and charm, and it’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a memorable, high-quality stay.
Absolutely loved my stay at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel! The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk to all the main attractions. I was able to explore the city on foot every day without needing transport. The room was spotless, comfortable, and quiet—perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. The whole atmosphere felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice touch of modern elegance. For anyone visiting Edinburgh, this is a top choice. Great value, great comfort, and an unbeatable central spot. Would definitely book again.
Staying at The Balmoral Hotel was an absolutely unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the location was perfect—just a five-minute walk to Calton Hill, and everything else in the Old Town, Rainbow Street, and Royal Mile was within easy reach. The hotel itself feels like a living piece of history, with elegant architecture and timeless charm. I couldn’t help but stop by room 552—the door painted a striking purple, which added such a unique touch. It’s said that J.K. Rowling found inspiration here while writing the final book in the Harry Potter series, and it’s easy to imagine why. The views from the windows are breathtaking, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, history, and convenience in Edinburgh, this is the place to be. Highly recommended.
This was our first visit to Edinburgh, and we absolutely fell in love with the city—and especially with the Boatel, 'Wee Sisters'! From the moment we arrived, everything impressed us: the prime location just steps from the heart of town, the spotless cleanliness, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the fully equipped kitchen that made cooking a breeze. The TVs were clear, the beds comfy, and the little touches—like fresh flowers and thoughtful amenities—made the stay feel extra special. It was so convenient, relaxing, and truly unique. Huge thanks to Natalie and her team for creating such a memorable experience. We’ll definitely be back!
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