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Setting sail from Falmouth is always spectacular and you don’t have to voyage too far to explore pictureseque towns or secluded coves. Here’s our top pick of the Cornish harbours east of Falmouth.
Mevagissey
If you continue up the coast from Falmouth you’ll soon arrive at the small fishing port of Mevagissey. Sheltered from the prevailing SW wind by the Dodman Head, this quaint fishing village offers moorings against the harbour wall as well as some for and aft moorings just inside the entrance. A popular destination for visitors, we do suggest you arrive early during the peak season as visiting boats often end up jostling for space. You can find out more about rules for visiting craft on the Mevagissey Harbour website.
Affectionately known by the locals as ‘Meva’, the village name derives from the Cornish for ‘Dead Man’, a reference to the former gallows on the head where smugglers and wreckers were hung in bygone days.
Today however, Cornwall’s second largest fishing port is warm, welcoming and still quintessentially Cornish. A far cry from the high end restaurants and façade that towns such as St Ives boast, ‘Meva’ holds a charm of its own with cosy pubs, fresh fish and chips and locally-made ice cream, all served with plenty of charm.
During your time here we recommend you visit Mevagissey Museum located on the quay and packed with fascinating exhibits. If time permits then take a walk up to Dodman Point, via the valley village of Gorran Haven. Whilst a certain level of fitness is required, the dramatic views along this stunning stretch of coastline are well worth it, plus, efforts can be rewarded back in the pub afterwards!
Visit Mevagissey Harbour
Fowey
The next port of call for those continuing east is the commerical port of Fowey, where it’s sheltered deep waters welcome a range of mariners. As to be expected, Fowey Harbour is well-equipped with visitor swinging moorings, pontoon berths and visitor berths available although, as always, we advise booking in advance.
Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Fowey is a beautiful place to visit with plenty of great walking trails directly from the town. Hike up to Gribbon Head for sweeping sea views or walk from the historic Old Ferry Inn at Bodinnick around Pont Pill to the pint-size town of Polruan, located on the opposite bank of the river. Treat yourself to a meal in the pub before cathing a foot ferry back to Fowey or a water taxi back to your boat.
Having inspired artists, poets and authors for centuries, Fowey is a must when you sail east from Falmouth and boasts its share of great restaurants, pubs, yacht clubs and seaside shops, where you’re bound to find that perfect souvenir. Should you need, you’ll also find a well stocked chandlery and sail makers to boot.
Visit Fowey Harbour
Looe
One of the last harbours before you enter Devon, the fishing village of Looe is surrounded by golden sandy beaches and lush green woodlands. With a rich maritime history, Looe was first chartered as a town in 1270 with seafaring serving as a way of life here for centuries. Exploring the town you’ll soon uncover tales of piracy and smuggling whilst the marine nature reserve of Looe Island, was once a holy pilgrimage site.
A busy fishing town, there are limited leisure moorings which are reserved for residents only. Visiting vessels are welcome to anchor east of the pier in settled or offshore conditions. Alternatively boats may enter the Harbour with the tide and dry against the visitor’s quay on firm sand. We advise contacting the Looe Harbour Master prior to arrival to discuss the best option for you.
Once settled in, take a wander through the old streets to the lively waterfront where you can watch one of Cornwall’s biggest fishing fleets unload their daily catch at the quay. There are over twenty-five restaurants and pubs all within a fifteen minute walk, each offering just-caught fish and seafood that is hard to beat.
Looe has a sandy beach where you lie back and laze or, for the more energetic the coast path provides good exercise with views that are quite simply unrivalled.
Visit Looe Harbour
