RNLI warns of increased risk of being cut off by the tide at Cramond Island

Ahead of the May bank holiday weekend, the RNLI is encouraging everyone to be aware of the safe crossing times and weather forecast when visiting coastal locations, particularly Cramond Island.

Cramond is a tidal island that can only be reached by walking across the causeway at certain states of the tide. It is important to be aware of the safe crossing times as outside these times, people on the island no longer have a safe passage back to the mainland and can get stuck on the island, or on the causeway.

Many members of the public have been caught out by the tide and have had to be rescued by the RNLI. Both Queensferry and Kinghorn lifeboat station regularly respond to call outs on the island and are therefore advising all visitors crossing the causeway to check the safe crossing times and arrange plans to return at a suitable time.

Kinghorn’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, Liz Davidson, says: ‘It’s hard to imagine how walking can turn out to be such a dangerous activity but unfortunately, we’re seeing more people needing our support when visiting Cramond Island.

‘Both Queensferry and Kinghorn crew have rescued people stuck on the island due to being cut off by the tide and have rescued people who have attempted to walk back across the causeway, and been caught out by the high tide.’

Michael Avril, Water Safety Lead for the RNLI in Scotland, says: ‘With more nice weather and a bank holiday weekend, we’re strongly advising everyone visiting Cramond Island to plan their visit around the safe crossing times, leaving plenty of time to return safely to the mainland.

‘We completely understand that accidents can happen, and it is important that you call for help if you need it. Try to stay calm and don’t try to wade through the water as this is dangerous.

‘If you need help, or see someone else in trouble, call for help immediately. Raise an arm to attract attention and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Calling early can help save lives.’

To check the safest times to cross, text CRAMOND to 81400 or check the displayed signage before crossing the causeway.

Notes to editors

• Across all incidents in 2025, Queensferry RNLI Lifeboat Station launched 101 times, saving 4 lives and aiding 119 people caught in difficulty in the water, and Kinghorn RNLI Lifeboat Station launched 94 times, saving 4 lives and aiding 38 people.

• The rescue video shows Queensferry RNLI rescuing two people and a dog cut off by the tide on Cramond in September 2025.

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