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Explore Devon by water

10th September 2020

Categories: Visitor News

There hasn’t been much scope for adventures this year with everything that is going on, so why not squeeze in a few before the colder weather returns by having your very own water-based adventure while in Devon? Devon is a beautiful county with lots of wonderful coastal areas to explore, so what better way to enjoy them than by water? All across the county you’ll find organisations offering you the chance to enjoy Devon’s waterways whether that’s the sea or the many rivers, you can head out by boat, by paddleboard, by kayak or a whole host of other vehicles so whatever your age, ability and seafaring skills, you’ll find the perfect vessel for your adventure.

One company offering boat trips around various places in Devon is Stuart Line Cruises . Not only do they offer trips along Europe’s oldest working ship canal, which can be found in Exeter, but there are also chances to enjoy pleasure cruises around the Jurassic Coast where you can take in those iconic cliffs from ocean. They also have a range of themed trips and cruises, allowing you to find out more about the marine life in the county and the region’s bird population among other trips.

Image: Stuart Line Cruises

You can also explore the beautiful south Devon coast by booking a trip with the Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboats . The river boats operate on the River Dart offering daily trips to Totnes, alternatively, there is the circular river cruise operating daily from Dartmouth and trips to Dittisham. The company also run a Dartmouth Coastal Cruise which takes you outside the estuary and along towards Start Point.

You can find more boat trips around Devon here.

If you’re someone who would rather be in control of your vessel, head to Roadford Lake where you can create your own adventure. Located between Okehampton and Launceston, this beautiful lake in the Wolf Valley has everything you could think of for an end of summer adventure. The lake is the largest body of inland water in the south west, so you have plenty of space to explore via paddleboard, kayaking and more! If you’re in a group that has some seafarers and some land lovers, book in with Adventure Okehampton , where you can enjoy over 365 square miles of moorland as well as trips on the waterways around Dartmoor. Both Adventure Okehampton and Roadford Lake have ample opportunities for those of you that aren’t so keen on getting out on the water too, it’s the perfect compromise!

Image: Canoe Tamar

For those of you in the mid-Devon region, Canoe Tamar are based in Tavistock and offer a truly relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Tamar Valley from your own canoe. The trip takes you past the Cotehele Estate and along the Gawton Quay taking in both the Devon and Cornwall sides of the river.

If you were thinking of something a bit more thrilling, why not give surfing or paddbleboarding a go? There are plenty of businesses all over the coastal regions offering tutoring sessions and equipment hire, so whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or you’re already a pro, you can find the perfect company for you. While North Devon offers the best conditions for surfing, you can also find organisations offering paddleboard and surf tuition and equipment hire all over the county including on the beaches in east Devon and South Devon. See more options for watersports around Devon here.