Welcome to Atlantic Bluefin Tuna UK’s ultimate guide to charter boats for Thunnus thynnus fishing in 2025! Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, these vessels offer the thrill of battling 200-800 lb bluefin tuna in UK waters—sustainably, through catch-and-release programs. From Cornwall’s rugged coast to the Celtic Deeps, our curated list connects you with the best skippers to chase your own “tunny,” the traditional name for Thunnus thynnus (tunny naming post). Let’s dive in and find the perfect charter for your next bluefin adventure!
Table of Contents
Top Charter Boats for Tunny Adventures (#top-charter-boats-for-tunny-adventures)
Why Charter Boats Matter for Thunnus thynnus Fishing (#why-charter-boats-matter-for-thunnus-thynnus-fishing)
Top Charter Boats for Tunny Adventures (#top-charter-boats-for-tunny-adventures)
At Atlantic Bluefin Tuna UK, we’ve handpicked the best charter boats participating in the Catch and Release Recreational Fishery (CRRF), ensuring sustainable fishing while delivering an adrenaline-packed experience. Here’s our list:
Aquila (Mevagissey, Cornwall)
Skipper Chris Gill is a veteran of both CRRF and commercial fishing. His 10-meter vessel is renowned for short fight times, achieving sub-2% mortality rates. A recent YouTube video showed Aquila tagging a 400-lb Thunnus thynnus in just 20 minutes using stand-up techniques (technique post). Operating August-December, Aquila uses top gear to ensure success (reel guide).White Water Charters (Pembrokeshire, Wales)
Captain Andrew Alsop made headlines in 2022 by catching the largest Thunnus thynnus in UK waters—a 900-pounder (record-breaking catches). His 38-foot vessel targets the Celtic Deeps, a prime spot for 300-500 lb bluefins (spot guide). Andrew’s trips are perfect for CRRF anglers aiming to tag giants.Fastcats Fishing (Falmouth, Cornwall)
Skipper Jerry Rogers, featured in our Ultimate Guide, calls bluefin fishing “Formula One fishing.” His 12-meter catamaran is ideal for groups, focusing on catch-and-release during the peak season. Jerry equips his boat with spreader bars and poppers to lure bluefins (lure guide).
Need more options? Our best charters guide has additional recommendations and booking tips for 2025.
Why Charter Boats Matter for Thunnus thynnus Fishing (#why-charter-boats-matter-for-thunnus-thynnus-fishing)
Charter boats are the heart of bluefin tuna fishing UK waters, offering anglers a chance to experience Thunnus thynnus sustainably. The CRRF program, which tagged 3,359 bluefins in 2024 with a 98.7% healthy release rate, relies on skilled skippers like Chris Gill and Andrew Alsop to keep mortality low (2024 CRRF stats). These boats not only provide access to prime fishing spots but also educate anglers on conservation, ensuring Thunnus thynnus thrives for generations.
By booking a charter, you’re supporting local economies and the revival of this iconic species, which may even feed on garfish in South Devon (diet post). Ready to fish? Gear up with our rod guide and explore our 2025 fishing guide.
Know a charter boat we should add to our Atlantic Bluefin Tuna UK list? Share their details below or tag #AtlanticBluefinTuna on X. Ready to battle a tunny? Dive into our Ultimate Guide for all the tips you need. Tight lines from Atlantic Bluefin Tuna UK!