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For those holding their Coastal Skipper qualification, or higher, then it’s well worth considering heading west of Falmouth, round the rugged Lizard point towards Land’s End. The UK’s most southerly point, this area of Cornwall is wild and untamed dotted with remote fishing villages and sweeping sandy beaches.
Coverack
This picture-perfect fishing community is a popular holiday destination steeped in history. The busy harbour was built in 1724 whilst it’s church dates back to 1885 and is dedicated to St Peter, the patron saint of net-makers, shipbuilders, and fishermen.
At low tide the waters ebb to reveal a sweeping sandy beach which is perfect for swimming and rock-pooling. If you fancy some watersports then visit our friends at the Coverack Watersports Centre where you can try windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding or join a fishing trip. For refreshments, stroll into the photogenic village for freshly baked pasties or a scoop of delicious Cornish ice cream.
It is easy to access the South West Coast Path from Coverack with several routes to discover for those keen to lace up their boots and stretch their legs. If you set off north you can experience St Keverne where the Cornish Rebellion began back in 1497! Choose to head south and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the sea, often without another soul in sight.
Should you choose to spend some time in Coverack it is important to be mindful of the notoriously rocky surrounds, including the infamous Manacles reef which lies directly off-shore. However, the approach into the harbour is straightforward during daylight hours with a pier extending north-westward from Lowland point.
Please note, prior permission to moor a small craft on the harbour must be obtained from the Coverack Harbour Master, Chris Pryor, by calling 01326 2806379.
Penzance
Penzance is a well-established fishing town with a historic harbour having served the town since the 1400’s. Today the harbour is home to a Wet Dock with a hydraulic ram and gate, a drying Harbour, five piers and a lighthouse, it also serves as the mainland terminal for the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company both for their freight and passenger services.
As to be expected, the recreational facilities are equally impressive and include a public slipway, parking, 240 drying moorings plus 50 visiting yacht berths. Located in the heart of Penzance, it is very easy to access the town from here with the famous Jubilee Pool – the UK’s largest seawater pool – a short stroll away too.
There are plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafes close by as well as several large supermarkets for stocking up on supplies. The town itself is home to many hidden gems including pretty sub-tropical garden and historic houses. Take a walk along the promenade towards Newlyn calling in for an ice-cream at Jelbert’s along the way or head towards Marazion instead, enjoying the stunning views across to St Michael’s Mount.
We do advise all visiting vessels wishing to contact the Penzance Harbour Office before arrival on VHF Channel 12, or by phone. You will then be advised on availability and areas in the floating dock for mooring your vessel. In addition, it is important to note that the tidal gate for entering Penzance Wet Dock is open from 2 hours before HW to 1.5 hours after HW. During these times the area is often particularly busy with boats, fishing vessels and regular shipping movements so please approach with due care.
Visit Penzance Harbour
Newlyn
Within walking distance from Penzance lies the charming fishing town of Newlyn with its narrow streets and rich maritime history. Famed for its creative scene, Newlyn has been popular with artists for centuries. The Newlyn School of Art established during the 1880’s by Stanhope Forbes who was drawn to Newlyn because of the ‘clarity of the light’. Today, galleries, potteries and artists workshops are found scattered throughout the village with The Newlyn Art Gallery featuring a range of acclaimed exhibitons.
As with Penzance, Newlyn Harbour lies in the centre of the town with easy access to shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes, galleries and more.
Aside from this creativity, Newlyn is a proud fishing community and Newlyn Harbour is one of the largest fishing ports in the UK. There are 20 visiting berths available and these are sold on a first come first served basis so it would be advsiable to book in advance.
Visitors are welcome to arrive at any time of the day and during most states of tide, please speak with one of their 24 hour watchkeepers on VHF Ch.12 before arriving in port.
One important thing to note, due to the position of the Newlyn Fish Market, animals (except service dogs) are not allowed in any part of the Harbour estate so if you are travelling with you pet, you will not be allowed within port limits.
Visit Newlyn Harbour
Mousehole
The last harbour before you round the Land’s End peninsula is Mousehole, an enchanting fishing village with a sandy beach and a pretty working harbour, which is decorated each year with Christmas lights that draw visitors from across the south west.
The narrow cobbled streets here are lined with granite fishermen’s cottages with boutiques, cafes and pubs in between. Lying within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the countryside surrounding Mousehole is just as beautiful and it is worth walking out of the village to explore futher afield.
Visiting vessels are welcome however please be aware that facilities are a little limited and during low tide the harbour dries out completely. Mousehole Harbour Authority kindly request that they are contacted before arrival by calling 01736 732544 or 07944 372289.
Visit Mousehole Harbour
