From sailing ventures, wildlife tours, fishing trips, on-water dining experiences or simply getting from A to B, our curated list of the best boat trips in Falmouth caters to all different interests and needs, providing a unique way to explore the stunning coastline and create unforgettable memories.

Hands-on Boat Trips

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” – Jacques Yves Cousteau

Falmouth, with its picturesque harbour and breathtaking coastline, is a sailor’s paradise that beckons you to dive into the enchanting world of sailing. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced mariner seeking new horizons, this vibrant maritime town offers a range of sailing schools and clubs that cater to all levels of expertise.

Whether you’re an intrepid explorer, a leisure-seeking cruiser, or a water enthusiast eager to feel the wind in your hair, hiring a boat in Falmouth is the perfect way to indulge in the nautical charm of this coastal gem. There’s an option to hire a Cabin Boat from Falmouth Boat Hire and take the helm to explore the Falmouth Estuary with up to 5 others and four-legged friends. The Helford River also offers endless opportunities on the water, Sailaway St. Anthony is a long-established boat yard on Gillan Creek at the entrance of the Helford River and offers a fleet for short-term hire from all points around the Helford River.

If you’re eager to sail beyond the shallows and into the open waters, award-winning Mylor Sailing School is the perfect next port of call. Just a short sail from Falmouth, Mylor offers a range of courses that cater to aspiring sailors of all ages. Whether you’re a young buccaneer or a seasoned sea goer, they have a program tailored just for you. You’ll gain the confidence to navigate your vessel and perhaps even earn your first sailing qualification – an accomplishment worth celebrating with a hearty “Yo ho ho!”

With a commitment to teaching the art of sailing to local children, the Children’s Sailing Trust charity has a long heritage providing a safe and inspiring environment for children to discover the joys of sailing single-handedly. with a range of private and holiday course sailing programmes tailored to suit all age groups and skill levels.

Ferry Crossings

Visitors and residents alike turn to the harbour town of Falmouth for its laid-back feel and sense of community. Here people don’t just live beside the water, their lives play out across it.
Dotted with boats, ferries and water taxis, you’ll find it easy to get out onto the water and explore. Crossings are perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of travelling through water and enjoying the scenic beauty of the coastline. At the foot of The Old High Street is the Prince of Wales Pier, where throughout the day you can set sail on ferries that journey up the River Fal towards Truro, across to the harbour village of Flushing, or to St Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula.

Wildlife Tours

Falmouth is home to a diverse range of marine life, making it a great destination for wildlife tours. You can take a boat trip and spot dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. The wildlife tours are led by experienced guides who will provide you with interesting insights into the local ecosystem. You can also learn about the local history of Falmouth while enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife. A captivating blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty, these trips offer an experience unlike any other. Our favourite local wildlife boat tours include Orca Sea Safaris, August Rock and AK Wildlife Cruises.

Fishing Trips

Falmouth is an angler’s haven. Fishing trips start from the harbour and are led by experienced fishermen who will provide you with everything you need for a successful trip, and a strong chance that you’ll be cooking fish supper with your own catch. You can catch a variety of fish, including mackerel, bass, and pollock. The fishing trips are suitable for all ages and are a great way to spend a day on the water. The fishing community is dedicated to sustainable fishing practices, ensuring the preservation of marine ecosystems for future generations. Local charters adhere to responsible fishing guidelines, promoting catch-and-release practices for certain species and respecting size limits to maintain a healthy fish population.

Guided River Cruises

Discover the beautiful Helford and magical Frenchman’s Creek on a guided river cruise. During these glorious 90-minute experiences, you will glide along Helford creeks, enjoying the wildlife, grand houses and historic villages that you may miss from the shore. Spot herons, little egrets, cormorants, curlews, kingfishers and perhaps even seals and dolphins if you’re lucky. Skipper Roger will join all trips, who is an incredible boatman and, being local, has knowledge of the waterways including the history and the environment. This is a stunning, fantastic-value river trip with an exhaustive flow of background information

Luxury Boat Experiences

For a dining experience like no other, hop aboard 36-foot traditional Cornish fishing boat, Tethra, for a peaceful breakfast, atmospheric afternoon tea, lengthy lunch, or divine dinner with friends.
Having known each other since age 6, founders Jess and Charlotte both grew up around and worked and travelled on boats. Their love for cooking, good food and exploring the local area by boat helped form the Blue River Table experience while combining their passions together. Their pride and joy and vessel Tethra was originally built in Looe in 1971 to long line for mackerel and worked until the late 80s.
Setting off from the pretty Mylor Harbour, up to 12 guests will voyage along the Cornish creeks and rivers seated around a chestnut banquet table. Here plates will be filled high with a feast of local produce and sharing platters which are all freshly prepared on board.