Visiting Copeland - Day Trips, Week-end and Longer Stays

The Observatory doesn't have a warden and is only manned when a suitably qualified duty officer is available. We try to man all weekends and as many weeks as possible during the periods of spring and autumn migration and the shearwater fledging time (late August to the end of September).

Access is by small boat from Donaghadee Harbour and most trips leave at 18:00 hours on Fridays and return at 16:00 hours on Sundays.

Visitors may book a place on a weekend or for a week. There are also four or five Day Trips each summer, usually on a Saturday. If staying overnight you should bring a sleeping bag, a sturdy torch with a strong beam, warm and waterproof clothing and food. Bring extra food in view of the slight possibility of being stranded and inform relatives that you may not get back at the expected time. It is much safer to stay on the Island than to bring a boat out in bad weather.

Emergency communications are by VHF marine radio but most mobile 'phones work well on the Island and so keeping in touch with home is straightforward.

Because of limited accommodation on the boat and on the Observatory you must book in advance through our bookings secretary Neville McKee (028 9443 3068 or e-mail at neville.mckee@btinternet.com).

Current subscriptions and charges

All annual membership categories receive a free copy of the Annual Report, at least two newsletters each year and can register to receive the CBO e-news. Short stay and Day members become members for the duration of their stay and are welcome to register for the CBO e-news.

Islander member - free overnight trips after the 4th overnight visit as an upgrade from annual membership - expires on 31st December each year