Tonia Reeve, Northumbrian Water’s Kielder operations manager, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer our customers this special cruise at no extra charge as ferry passengers will still pay just the normal ticket price.

“It is a great opportunity to learn more about these majestic birds. The ferry will get them the closest they can get to the nest site, although it will still be obscured, but I’m sure there will be some fantastic views of the hunting bird.”

The Osprey ferry special round trip will set sail daily from Leaplish Waterside Park at 10.45am, calling at Tower Knowe Visitor Centre at 11.10am and returning to Leaplish at 12.10pm.

Booking is advisable on (01434) 251-000 or on site at Leaplish Waterside Park and Tower Knowe Visitor Centre. Tickets will be on sale on the morning of the sailing if spaces are available. Tickets cost £6.20 per adult, £3.90 per child and £5.50 for over 60s.

Family tickets are also available for two adults and two children at £16.75 and for two adults and three children at £19.75.

The osprey viewing point is at Mounces Car Park off the C200 near Leaplish Waterside Park which is open daily and staffed on Friday afternoons (1pm-5pm) and at weekends (10am-5pm) by experienced volunteers.

The osprey watch at Kielder is a partnership between Northumbrian Water, the RSPB, Northumberland Wildlife Trust and the Forestry Commission.