Its place on the Dart estuary means the town of Dartmouth is ideal for water lovers and watersport enthusiasts. Whether you’re a first timer looking to see what you’re missing out on, or you want to bring your passion for the water with you on holiday, the town has many great ways that you can take to the water. From kayaking, paddle boarding, ferry trips and sailing retreats they’re all on offer in and near this picturesque coastal town.
Ways to Enjoy the Water in Dartmouth
For the ultimate kayak experience along the coast of Dartmouth and around the estuary, enjoy a guided kayak trip with Sea Kayak Devon. With full and half day adventures as well as fully catered overnight trips available, Sea Kayak Devon’s highly qualified guides and latest equipment makes viewing the secret coves, rugged cliffs, amazing wildlife and charming harbour truly enjoyable.
If you’ve always wanted to be the captain of your own boat, you can with Dartmouth Boat Hire. Boats for up to 8 people can be hired by the hour or for a day, so you can leisurely explore the River Dart and its lovely water side communities at your own speed.
But if speed is more your thing, Marine Xped provides fast and leisurely boat trips out of Dartmouth and around Start Bay. Jump aboard the Arctic 28 rib, as used by the Royal Marines and UK Special Forces, and experience unique views of some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring coastline in the UK.
Based in Dartmouth, Snark – Sailing Retreat offer a diverse range of events including yoga and meditation retreats, motor and sailing cruises, bird watching, painting and culinary cruises as well as being available for private charter, all on a 26m spritsail Thames sailing barge.
For a day out on the water accompanied by great tasting food, plan your watery Dartmouth adventure on the Banquet Boat. Enjoy a romantic cruise or a day out with friends whilst enjoying cream tea, seafood platter, a breakfast banquet or Spanish tapas on board an elegant oak and iroko launch.
Greenway Ferry operates a number of ferry services, sightseeing cruises and excursions departing from Dartmouth, Dittisham and Greenway. Whether you’re looking to travel between the quaint village of Dittisham and Dartmouth, stop off at Agatha Christies holiday home Greenway or take an hour long River Cruise, Greenway Ferry will help you explore all the River Dart has to offer.
Places to Enjoy the Water Nearby
A short drive from Dartmouth, just through the village of Stoke Fleming is the stunningly beautiful Blackpool Sands Beach. This golden crescent of shingle, surrounded by evergreens and pines, is not only great for a relaxing beach day, but perfect for taking to the water and trying some watersports. Paddleboards as well as single, double or triple kayaks are available to hire from the beach café.
In the other direction from Dartmouth, after crossing the River Dart, you’ll find the fishing port of Brixham. This harbour town which has a strong fishing history is still a thriving port today with a famous fish market. From the harbour you can take to the water on fishing trips, wildlife tours, aboard a beautifully restored heritage sailing boat or catch a ferry to explore what the rest of Torbay has to offer.
