5 of the best boat trips in Cornwall

There are so many things to do in Cornwall. Known for its stunning coastlines, beautiful beaches and coves along with an array of wildlife. You can walk, hike or run around the coastline however if you fancy seeing it from another angle, a great way to explore is by taking a boat trip.

You can try anything from a sea safari, or a more leisurely tour on the rivers to a sea fishing trip. What could be better than catching your own dinner? Each boat trip offers something different, especially as the coast around Cornwall is surrounded by different bodies of water, with the Celtic Sea to the north, moving down into the Atlantic Ocean then around to the English Channel in the south. Enjoy wildlife excursions, historical locations or hearing about the local stories of the area.

We've put together some of our favourite boat trips in Cornwall, but these are just a taste of what is available in this amazing part of the UK.

1. Port Issac

An Atlantic grey seal sunbathing on a rock in Cornwall

If you're staying near Tintagel you can enjoy a boat tour with Wave Hunters who offer boat trips from various ports including Port Issac. With tours ranging from one to three hours you can listen to stories about the area and get the chance to see some amazing wildlife including seals, dolphins, porpoises, whales and a variety of sea birds. You can even bring your four legged friend.

Stay at Trewethett Farm Club Campsite - 12.5 miles away.

2. St Ives

A Fin whale feeding off the Cornwall coastline

To explore the coast from St Ives you can enjoy boat trips from Easter to November with St Ives Boats. Trips range from one to three hours in length and explore Seal Island, Hells Mouth, Godrevy Lighthouse. On the longer boat trips you'll see the dramatic and stunning coast around Land’s End where the cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. In the winter months you have the opportunity to see more dolphins and possibly Humpback whales and Fin whales.

Stay at - Godrevy Park Club Campsite - 8.5 miles away.

3. Looe

Looe, Cornwall. Photo by Andrea Rhodes

On the south coast of Cornwall explore the coast around Looe on a wildlife tour or boat trip with Looe Sea Safari. If you are a thrill seeker take a trip on a 10 metre rib or for something more relaxing choose their glass bottom boat. You can spot seals, dolphins, a variety of seabirds and even bluefin tuna. The boat trips are dog friendly (if your dog enjoys the sea), however dogs are not permitted on the Looe Island trip.

Stay at - Looe Club Campsite - 2 miles away.

4. St Mawes

A White Egret on the mud flats of the Fal river, Cornwall

Take a boat trip from St Mawes with Petra River Cruises. Offering tours for up to 6 passengers, plus the captain and range from 2 hours up to all day trips, exploring the sites around St Mawes, the Fal Estuary and Roseland with its hidden creeks.

Stay at - Merrose St Mawes Club Campsite - 5.5 miles away.

5. Falmouth

Gyllyngvase beach, Falmouth, Cornwall. Photo by Pauline Gill

In the Truro area head to Falmouth where you can explore the beauty of the Fal River between Falmouth and Malpas from April to October with FalRiver Cornwall. The boat trips are on classic wooden ferries which are dog friendly.

Stay at - Carnon Downs Club Campsite - 7.5 miles away.

More ways to enjoy the coasts of Cornwall

If you want to get out onto the seas in other ways there are many local options for watersports around Cornwall including, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, surfing and body boarding. Or if you would like to taste the sea try the many seafood restaurants and enjoy the local delicacies.

CAMC is not affiliated with the providers listed above so please ensure you check their websites for up to date information.