Gannets, Guillemots and Shearwaters: The Seabirds of Falmouth Bay
Where to See Seals in Cornwall: A Guide to Grey Seal Spotting from Falmouth Bay
Falmouth is one of the finest starting points for a boat trip anywhere on the Cornish coast. The harbour sits at the mouth of the Carrick Roads, one of the deepest natural harbours in the world, and from here the Atlantic, the Fal estuary, and miles of extraordinary coastline are within easy reach. The question is not whether to get on the water but which type of trip best suits what you are looking for.
This guide covers everything available from Falmouth harbour so you can make the right choice before you book.
Sea Safaris: Wildlife and High Speed
A sea safari on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) is the most immersive way to experience the Cornish coastline from the water. Trips head out into Falmouth Bay and along the coast, with expert crew providing commentary on the wildlife, geology, and history of everything you pass.
You might encounter Atlantic grey seals hauled out on the rocks, common dolphins bow-riding alongside the boat, basking sharks finning at the surface from late spring, or gannets plunge-diving at speed into the water around you. The pace is fast, the spray is real, and the access to sea caves and cliff sections unreachable from land makes every trip genuinely different.
Sea safaris are suitable for adults and children from around age five. Trip lengths range from one hour to a full day, and the longer the trip the more varied the wildlife territory you cover.
Wildlife Cruises: A Slower, More Contemplative Experience
If high speed is not what you are looking for, wildlife cruises from Falmouth offer the same extraordinary coastal scenery and wildlife opportunities at a gentler pace. These trips are well suited to families with younger children, older visitors, or anyone who wants to take in the coast without the physical demands of a RIB experience.
Private Charters: The Boat Is Yours
A private charter from Falmouth puts the entire vessel at your disposal for the duration of your booking. You choose the itinerary, the pace, and the focus of the day. Popular private charter formats include wildlife-focused coastal trips, Helford River and estuary exploration, fishing, and celebration or corporate events. The Fal estuary and its connected creeks are among the most beautiful stretches of tidal water in Cornwall and are best explored at your own pace.
Evening and Sunset Trips
The Cornish coast in the hour before sunset is genuinely extraordinary. The light on the cliff faces, the flat calm that often follows the afternoon breeze, and the increased wildlife activity at dusk combine to make evening trips some of the most memorable available from the harbour. Sunset sea safaris are a particular favourite for photography enthusiasts and anyone wanting a different quality of experience from the daytime trips.
What Should I Bring?
Regardless of which type of trip you choose, a few things are worth having. A windproof or waterproof outer layer is important even on warm days as conditions on the water are consistently cooler than on land. Sunscreen and sunglasses are both more necessary on the water than most people expect due to UV reflection from the sea surface. For wildlife watching, binoculars significantly enhance the experience.
How to Book
Trips can be booked directly online or by phone. Peak summer dates, particularly weekends and bank holidays in July and August, fill quickly. Booking in advance is strongly recommended if you have a specific date in mind.
Book your Falmouth sea safari or boat trip at falmouthseasafari.co.uk