Ilfracombe Princess

I'd been meaning to take a boat trip along the coastline of North Devon for years, but had never got around to it. My one visit to lundy by boat a long while back had shown me what beautiful sights the coastline here had to offer. The crew of the Ilfracombe Princess share my passion for this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and provide a comfortable, low cost way to experience it.

When i heard that some friends from London were visiting in August 2009 i grabbed at the chance to show off my home town and took them for a cruise aboard the "Ilfracombe Princess".

With the sun shining and calm seas forecast, we head to the seafront for a bite to eat, allowing for plenty of time before we set off on our adventure to browse past the numerous little tourist shops that lined the harbour strip.

Welcomed by the friendly crew, the four of us climbed onboard with cameras at the ready. With Exmoor on our doorstep the area is home to lots of fantastic wildlife so a pair of binoculars will come in handy, you will see a variety of sea birds and may be able spot seals, porpoises and even dolphins!

North Devon has one of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in England and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve because of its blend of special landscapes and wildlife areas, rich cultural heritage and communities that care about it and want to sustain it into the future. Its coastland is marked as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which is nationally protected for the beauty of its landscape.

We cruised passed little coves, stopping to wave at passers by, paddling in kayaks or enjoying a spot of coasteering. The journey took us across Hele Bay, passed Watermouth Harbour & Castle, Combe Martin Bay, Hangman Hill, Old Silver Mines & Sherracombe Waterfall, with fabulous views of Exmoor. The driver provided interesting facts along the way which made the experience even better! At about an hour, the journey was a good length, with enough time to soak up the sun and sights, until our feet were back on firm ground again.

Prices

One and a half hour cruises - Adults £12, Children £6, age 4 and under go free. Telephone bookings taken on (01271) 879727. (Dogs welcome as are well behaved owners)

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