Luxury Private Rib Tour to Babbacombe Bay from Exmouth Marina

If you’re considering a boat trip along the Devon coast, this Luxury Private Rib Tour to Babbacombe Bay offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful sights from the water. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and descriptions paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s a private experience, which means your group gets the boat all to yourselves — perfect if you’re after a personalized adventure with friends or family.

What really stands out is the opportunity to customize your journey and the chance to catch views that are often missed when just lounging on the beach. Plus, the reviews rave about the friendly guides and the stunning scenery they encountered.

On the flip side, it’s a two-hour trip, so it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a lengthy day at sea. Also, since it’s a boat tour, the weather plays a significant role, which can be a consideration if you’re visiting during less predictable months. It’s ideal for those who want a breezy, scenic jaunt with the flexibility of a private charter, especially if you’re into coastal views, photography, or just want a memorable day out on the water.

If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, exclusivity, and a guided trip that can be tailored to your interests, this tour is likely to hit the mark. Families, couples, friends—pretty much anyone who loves the sea and scenic coastlines—will find this experience worthwhile.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience ensures you and your group have the boat to yourselves.
• Stunning coastal views along Devon’s shoreline, with opportunities for memorable photos.
• Expert guides receive praise for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Weather-sensitive activity, as tours require good weather to go ahead.
• Efficient 2-hour trip that covers several iconic landmarks without feeling rushed.
• Cost per group, making it more about the experience for the price rather than per-person value.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private rib tour begins at Exmouth Marina, a convenient starting point that puts you right into the action. The boat itself is described as a luxury Italian rib, which suggests a high standard of comfort and style. The fact that only your group will be on board means you get a personalized experience, free from the hustle of larger tour groups.

What’s really appealing here is the itinerary, which hits several well-known spots along the coast, all from the water. The tour is designed to give a broad overview of the area, passing by landmarks and natural features that are best appreciated from the sea.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve
Right after leaving Exmouth Marina, you’ll glide past Dawlish Warren’s expansive sandspit and beach, an area that forms the heart of a massive 500-acre Nature Reserve. It’s an introduction to how diverse and lively this stretch of coast can be. The best part? No admission fee here, so you can simply enjoy the scenery.

2. Dawlish and Langstone Rock
Next, you’ll pass the charming seaside town of Dawlish, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm. To the east, Langstone Rock offers a splash of geological beauty — a natural arch carved into red rock, a sight that’s both striking and photo-worthy. The guide’s commentary might include some local lore, but even just viewing this natural marvel makes the trip worthwhile.

3. Teignmouth
A highlight is Teignmouth, a favorite holiday spot for many. The town’s two sandy beaches and long pier, stretching nearly 700 feet into the ocean, are visible from the water. This area captures the quintessential seaside vibe, and many reviews mention how stunning and inviting the town looks.

4. Holcombe & Dawlish Warren Beach
Passing Holcombe, you’ll see the dramatic red cliffs and Shag Rock, a naturally formed sea stack that adds to the rugged charm of the coastline. The cliffs and rock formations here are a particular draw for photographers and nature lovers alike.

5. Maidencombe & Watcombe Head
Before arriving at Babbacombe, you’ll pass Maidencombe with its scenic cove and Watcombe Head, home to a sizeable sea cave. Passing by this site, you’ll likely have the chance to admire the natural cave, which some boats can even enter — an exciting prospect for those interested in geology or adventure.

6. Babbacombe & Oddicombe
The tour concludes in Babbacombe Bay, a well-known area with a reputation for stunning scenery and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The guide notes that this is the primary stop of the trip, where some groups might choose to dip into the water or simply enjoy the views.

What You’ll Experience on the Water

Guests consistently mention the stunning views and friendly guides, with reviews praising the professionalism and warmth of the crew. One review states, “Henry and the boat are superb from start to finish — everything felt really friendly and safe while we had loads of fun.” That’s a sign that safety and comfort are priorities, which is reassuring given this is a boat trip.

Another traveler highlights how the stunning scenery made the trip memorable, especially with the good weather that was described as “brilliant.” The opportunity to jump into the sea at some stops, as mentioned in a review, adds an element of fun and spontaneity.

The Practical Aspects

The tour lasts roughly 2 hours, a length that feels just right for covering the key sights without feeling too rushed. The cost is $485.96 per group, allowing up to seven guests. When you break down the experience, this fee seems reasonable, considering the private nature and the personalized service.

Safety is taken care of with life jackets provided, though lunch isn’t included. So, plan accordingly if your trip coincides with a mealtime. The tour departs from Exmouth Marina and ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

What the Reviews Say

Both reviews relay high satisfaction, each giving a perfect rating. One mentioned, “No Title” but then praised the trip as “perfect,” highlighting the friendly crew, scenic views, and the fun of jumping into the water. The other praised the timely arrival of the boat, the professionalism of the guide Henry, and the gorgeous coastline. These comments suggest that the experience is well-organized, enjoyable, and suitable for those who appreciate good company and stunning marine scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private rib tour caters to travelers seeking a personalized, scenic experience. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed yet active outing—enjoying the coast at your own pace with a guide who can tailor the trip. It suits adventurous couples, groups of friends, or families looking for a memorable day out on the water.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops for capturing rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and coastal towns are a bonus. However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or if weather is a concern, it’s worth considering that the trip needs good conditions to run smoothly.

Additional Practical Information

• Meeting Point: Exmouth Marina
• Duration: About 2 hours
• Group Size: Up to 7 people, making for an intimate, personalized experience
• Price: $485.96 per group, which offers flexibility and exclusivity
• Included: Life jackets for safety
• Not Included: Lunch, so pack snacks if you think you’ll want them
• Weather: Activity requires good weather; poor conditions could lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the route of the tour?
Yes, since it’s a private charter, you have the opportunity to tailor your journey, making it more suited to your interests or photography needs.

How long does the trip last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to see several landmarks without it feeling overly rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s generally a boat trip with natural safety precautions. Well-behaved children should be fine, but always check with the operator first if you’re traveling with kids.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, especially if the weather is breezy, and consider packing some snacks or drinks, as lunch isn’t included.

Is there a possibility of swimming?
Yes, some reviews mention opportunities to jump into the sea at stops, which adds a fun element for those interested.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to proceed. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a private, scenic boat trip that showcases Devon’s stunning coastline from the water, this rib tour offers a compelling mix of comfort, natural beauty, and flexibility. The high praise for guides and scenery suggests it’s a reliable choice for a memorable day out. It’s especially suited for those who value exclusivity and personalized service, and who enjoy a bit of adventure on the water.

While it’s not the cheapest outing, the private nature and the chance to see landmarks from a different perspective make it worthwhile. Just remember, good weather is key — but when conditions are right, this trip can truly be a highlight of your Devon visit.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy some of the most beautiful views along the coast, this tour is a solid pick. It combines comfort, adventure, and the chance to make some unique memories with friends or loved ones.