Beautiful Boat Trips from St Ives: All You Need to Know

St Ives’ harbour is not just a postcard-perfect scene, it’s also the starting point for some of Cornwall’s most memorable boat trips and a wonderful way to see what’s in Cornwall. From seal spotting to dolphin watching, fishing to coastal cruises, a voyage from this iconic Cornish harbour offers a fresh perspective on the county’s rugged coastline and thriving marine life. This guide will help you plan the perfect trip, highlighting the types of tours available, what to expect, and how to make the most of your Cornish seafaring adventure.

Seal Island Boat Trips: A Wildlife Spectacle

One of the most popular excursions is to Seal Island, also known as Carrack Gladden, just a few miles off the St Ives coast. These trips typically last around 1–1.5 hours and are suitable for all ages. Visitors can expect to see colonies of Atlantic grey seals basking on the rocks or swimming curiously around the boats, alongside seabirds like guillemots and razorbills.

Reputable operators:

• St Ives Boats – friendly and well-reviewed for family tours
  
• Dolly P – a traditional wooden boat with a long history of trips to Seal Island
  

Costs: from £20–£25 per adult, with family tickets available. For the best chance to see seals, morning and late afternoon trips are recommended when they are most active.

Coastal Cruises: Exploring St Ives Bay

If you would like to take in Cornwall’s dramatic shoreline, a coastal cruise is a must. These trips hug St Ives Bay and reveal hidden coves, sandy beaches, and landmarks such as the Godrevy Lighthouse. Expect turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Reputable operators:

• St Ives Bay Cruises – popular for scenic tours
  
• The Blue Thunder – perfect for a speedier, thrill-seeking experience
  

Duration and Costs: 1–2 hours, usually priced from £25 per adult. Cruises are relaxed, often with commentary on local history and wildlife.

Fishing Trips: Cast Your Line in Cornish Waters

For a hands-on adventure, try a fishing trip. Whether you are an experienced angler or a first-timer, you will be guided by local skippers who provide rods, tackle, and bait. Expect to catch mackerel, pollock, or even bass. Some trips will even fillet your catch for you to take back and cook.

Reputable operators:

• St Ives Fishing Trips – beginner-friendly and well-equipped
  
• Blue Thunder Fishing – for those wanting a more adventurous outing
  

Duration and Costs: Trips usually last 2–3 hours and start at £35 per person. Morning or early evening trips are often the most fruitful.

Porthminster Beach and Carbis Bay Views from the Sea

From the water, St Ives’ beaches take on an entirely new beauty. Porthminster Beach and Carbis Bay, with their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, look especially breathtaking when approached by sea. These shorter boat trips often double as mini-coastal tours and provide stunning panoramas perfect for keen photographers.

Duration and Costs: around 1 hour, with prices starting from £20.

St Ives Dolphin and Wildlife Spotting Tours

Beyond seals, St Ives is a hotspot for other incredible marine life. Dedicated wildlife tours aim to spot dolphins, basking sharks, and porpoises, along with seabirds like puffins and gannets. Dolphin sightings are most common between June and September, although nature is always unpredictable.

Reputable operators:

• Dolly P – praised for dolphin spotting trips
  
• Blue Thunder RIB Rides – speedy boats that cover more ground for sightings
  

Duration and Costs: 2–3 hours, starting at around £40 per person.

Tips for the Best St Ives Boat Trip

• Book in advance, especially during the summer months, as boat trips fill quickly
  
• Check the weather forecast: calm seas make for the most enjoyable outings
  
• Dress in layers and bring a waterproof as sea breezes can be chilly (even on sunny days)
  
• Seasickness prevention: ginger tablets or wristbands can help if you are prone
  
• Departure points: most trips leave directly from St Ives Harbour, easily accessible from the town centre
  

Stay Close by to St Ives

After a day on the waves, retreat to somewhere tranquil and welcoming. Cornish Meadows Holiday Park, just a short drive from St Ives, is the perfect base for your coastal adventure. Set in peaceful countryside, it offers glamping, holiday homes or lodges to book, and a warm community feel. It’s ideal for relaxing before or after an exhilarating boat trip.

Book Your Stay at Cornish Meadows

Ready to make St Ives your next holiday destination? Discover Cornish Meadows Holiday Park and start planning your adventure today.

FAQs: Boat Trips in St Ives

How to choose a boat operator in St Ives?

Look for operators with positive reviews, safety certifications, and local knowledge. Family-run boats often provide a more personal experience.

Can you see whales in St Ives?

While rare, minke whales and even humpbacks have occasionally been sighted off the Cornish coast. Dedicated wildlife tours offer your best chance.

When to see dolphins in St Ives?

Dolphins are most commonly spotted in summer, particularly from June to September when the seas are calmer and food is plentiful. Discover the best places to spot dolphins here.

Further Reading

For more inspiration, explore these guides:

• Your 7-Day Itinerary for North Cornwall
  
• Your 7-Day Itinerary for South Cornwall
  
• A 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring West Cornwall