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Skippers who hold their Day Skipper Practical or higher have the opportunity to voyage to beautiful south Devon. This gentle stretch of coast is dotted with secluded coves, quaint fishing villages, tranquil estuaries and stunning beaches. Here are our top pick of must-see harbours;
Plymouth
Most likely to be your first port of call once you’ve crossed the border, the ancient maritime city of Plymouth has much to offer. Boasting over five centuries of maritime history, it was here that Sir Francis Drake was given news of the first sightings of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Later, in 1620, it was from Plymouth that The Pilgrim’s departed for America on board the Mayflower, eventually establishing a ‘new Plymouth’ in Massachusetts. The city also served as the departure point for James Cook in 1768 and Charles Darwin in 1831, when he climbed aboard HMS Beagle for a life-changing scientific voyage of discovery.
Today visitors can enjoy remnants of this rich history from quayside canons to strolling in the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake. As a popular and important nautical city, there are several marinas offering visitor berths and moorings for you to choose from including the Mayflower Marina, Plymouth Yacht Haven, MDL Queen Anne’s Battery, Sutton Harbour Marina and the Royal William Yard Marina.
Once moored up you can step ashore to start exploring and there is plenty to see and do. Away from the vibrant waterfront, the city is home to many high street shops as well as welcoming pubs, restaurants, hotels, a brilliant aquarium and a popular lido.
To find out more and to plan your trip, head to the local tourist destination website, Visit Plymouth.
The River Yealm
A designated Special Area of Conservation, as well as a Special Site of Scientific Interest, the stunning River Yealm is a delightfully peaceful place to sail. With calm waters, idyllic scenery and plenty of birdlife, including protected species such as Osprey and Curlew, it is a wonderful place to drop anchor and relax. Lying inland from Plymouth, it totally contrasts with the vibrant city and bustling seaside, ideal for those sailors wanting to get away from it all.
One of the best places to drop anchor is the secluded Cellar Bay. Far away from the popular towns and bustling villages, this peaceful spot provides a free anchorage surrounded by nature. Laze on the beach, explore the caves or stretch legs with a walk to The Ship Inn at Noss Mayo where you can reward your efforts with a hearty meal and refreshing drink.
Visit the River Yealm.
Salcombe
The seaside town of Salcombe needs no introduction as it is arguably one of the prettiest towns in south Devon. Perfectly placed on the shores of the Kingsbridge Estuary, Salcombe lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is the ideal spot for a few days away. Surrounded by rolling green countryside and fringed by golden sandy beaches which tumble into clear turquoise waters, the area is a water sports haven with something for everyone.
Salcombe Harbour Authority manage the waters here, from the sea all the way up to Kingsbridge and there are a number of visitor moorings and anchorages available. As the harbour becomes extremely busy during the peak summer season, it is advisable to contact the Harbour Authority in advance to help plan your visit. You can call them on 01548 843791 or contact them using the VHF Radio CH 14 if you are already on the water.
Dartmouth
Picturesque Dartmouth has earned itself a reputation as a foodie hotspot, home to acclaimed Michelin-star restaurants such as The Angel, The Seahorse and Andria. There are also a plethora of welcoming pubs and cafes to choose from too, each serving up the finest Devon produce with the town celebrating it’s culinary reputation during the Dartmouth Food Festival in October.
Aside from the food and drink scene Dartmouth is a water sports haven, its calm waters perfect for kayaking, SUP’ing and swimming. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches and if you’re keen to set your pulse racing, head to Dartmoor National Park which is only a short drive away or explore the coastpath as it winds along the gently undulating coastline.
A popular tourist town, Dartmouth becomes incredibly busy during the summer months and we do recommend you plan ahead if you wish to visit. There are several marinas to choose from; Noss on Dart, Darthaven, Dart Harbour and the luxurious Dart Marina, each offers something slightly different to the next but all are well-equipped with stunning locations.
Visit Dartmouth
Brixham
One of the busiest fishing ports in Britain, Brixham’s maritime history dates back to the Saxon times with the local museum bursting with fascinating stories and ancient relics. The harbour is also home to a replica of The Golden Hind which was the first English ship to circumnavigate the globe, Captained by Sir Francis Drake. Today this floating museum is open come rain or shine and its five decks are well worth a visit.
As one of the largest towns along the English Riviera, Brixham is a great place to visit with plenty of beaches, walks, museums and waterspots on offer. Thanks to its bustling fishing port, the towns eateries serve up some of the finest, freshest seafood in the country whether its a sit down meal or delicious takeaway. And, for those keen to unleash their inner salty seadog, Brixham holds a swash-bucking annual Pirate Festival in May complete with live music and re-enactments.
For those keen to visit, Brixham harbour offers visitor moorings on two pontoons however these are not bookable in advance and there is limited space. During busy periods it is permissable to raft up alongside other vessels which are moored to pontoons. Alternatively, MDL run a private marina in Brixham and can be contacted on VHF CH 80 or by calling 01803 882929.
Visit Brixham Harbour
Weymouth
With Blue Flag beaches and a picturesque harbour, it’s well worth making the trip along the coast to Weymouth, in Dorset. This seaside town is dotted with colourful beach huts and grand Georgian houses, both of which served as beautiful backdrops to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sailing events.
There is plenty to do in Weymouth from sun-soaked beach days on some of the finest sands in Europe to exploring historic castles and uncovering fossils along the Jurassic Coast. The historic harbour is a hive of activity with ferries, sailing yachts, fishing boats, the RNLI and even tall ships frequently coming and going. Take in the activity from one of the many restaurants or cafes which line the waterfront or wander the pretty town, shopping for souvenirs.
There are visitor berths available in Weymouth Harbour with all visiting craft asked to contact the Harbour Office prior to arrival to receive advice on berthing using call sign ‘WEYMOUTH HARBOUR’ on VHF Channel 12. It is possible to book a visitor berth in advance using this online form and we highly recommend doing so, particularly during the peak months.
Visit Weymouth Harbour
