Exploring Plymouth from the Water: A Review of the 1-Hour Scenic Harbour Cruise
If you’re visiting Plymouth and looking for a relaxed way to see the coastline and naval highlights, this 1-hour scenic harbour cruise might be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, plenty of travelers have enjoyed it enough to leave glowing reviews — averaging a solid 4.6 out of 5 from 66 different voices.
What really appeals about this cruise are two things: first, the chance to see spectacular views of the Devon and Cornish coasts from the water, and second, the opportunity to get up close with some of the UK’s largest naval vessels, including warships and nuclear submarines. It’s a straightforward outing that combines scenic beauty with a dash of maritime history.
On the flip side, a potential caveat is that this experience depends heavily on the weather. Since the trip is mostly about being on the water, poor weather can affect visibility and overall enjoyment. Also, at just an hour, it’s a quick trip — perfect if you’re short on time but not ideal if you’re craving a deep dive into Plymouth’s history or a more immersive tour.
That said, this cruise is best suited for those who appreciate easy, scenic outings with informative commentary — especially if you’re traveling with family or just want a relaxed way to see Plymouth’s harbor and naval assets without spending a fortune.
Key Points
- Short and Sweet: A 1-hour cruise that offers a quick yet delightful glimpse of Plymouth’s coast and naval yard.
- Great Value: At around $17 per person, it packs in scenic views and interesting sights without breaking the bank.
- Informative Guides: The commentary provided by the skipper is both knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience educational as well as scenic.
- Accessible and Practical: The boat is wheelchair accessible, has toilets, and includes a licensed bar for drinks, making it comfortable for many travelers.
- Weather Dependent: The trip relies on good weather for the best experience, which can be a consideration if visiting in winter or during unpredictable weather conditions.
- Highly Rated: With many happy reviews, travelers seem to appreciate the friendly staff, the views of warships, and the overall value.
An In-Depth Look at the Plymouth Harbour Cruise
Starting Point and Logistics
The cruise departs daily from The Barbican Landing Stage, near the Mayflower Steps, one of Plymouth’s most iconic sites. You’ll need to exchange your voucher for a ticket at the Ticket Kiosk on Commercial Wharf — quite straightforward, with hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The meeting point is easy to find, right in the heart of the historic dock area, making this a convenient activity to slot into your Plymouth itinerary.
The tour lasts around 60 minutes, which is perfect if you’re looking for a quick but worthwhile outing. The boats are described as having toilets on board and a licensed bar, so you can sip a drink while soaking up the views — a nice touch to add some comfort to the trip.
The Itinerary and What You’ll See
Your journey kicks off at the Mayflower Steps, with commentary starting almost immediately. As you set sail, you’ll cruise across Plymouth Sound, a sheltered body of water with views of both the Devon and Cornish coasts. The commentary, as praised in reviews, is informative and well-paced, keeping you engaged whether you’re a history buff or just after nice scenery.
A highlight for many is passing the Plymouth Hoe, a famous seaside promenade with panoramic views, and Drake’s Island, which adds a historic flavor to the landscape. As you continue, you’ll head toward the River Tamar, an important waterway separating Devon from Cornwall, which adds a scenic touch to the cruise.
One of the most unique aspects of this trip is pulling into the Naval Dockyard, one of the largest in Western Europe. Here, you get an up-close view of some incredible warships and nuclear submarines. This sight appeals especially to those interested in military vessels and maritime power, and reviews confirm that seeing the ships at anchor is a major draw.
The cruise then turns back along the coastline, offering more stunning views, before returning to the starting point. The entire trip is a neat package that combines natural scenery, maritime history, and naval might in just an hour.
What Makes This Experience Stand Out
Travelers frequently comment on the knowledgeable guides and the fabulous commentary. One review notes how the guide keeps information flowing, making the trip both fun and educational. Others mention that the views of Plymouth’s historic dockyard and warships are especially memorable, adding a sense of scale and history to the trip.
The accessibility and onboard facilities also receive praise. The presence of toilets and a bar means you can enjoy the trip comfortably, and dogs are permitted — making it feasible for pet owners who want to include their furry friends.
The Value for Money
At just about $17 per person, this cruise offers a very reasonable way to see key sights from the water. Multiple reviews praise the good prices on board and the overall affordability of the experience, especially considering the views and the naval sights you get to see. For families or groups, this is an activity that feels like a good deal, particularly given the short duration and the memorable sights.
Planning more time in Plymouth Uk? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What Could Be Improved?
While most reviews are positive, a few mention the weather as a factor that can impact the trip. Since the cruise is mostly about enjoying the views and the water, rain, wind, or fog could limit visibility or comfort. If you’re visiting during the quieter winter months, it’s worth checking weather conditions beforehand.
Also, with a typical one-hour duration, this isn’t a comprehensive tour of Plymouth’s history or harbor but rather a scenic overview. If you’re after a deeper dive, consider pairing this with other activities or tours.
Who is This Cruise Best Suited For?
This cruise is ideal if you want a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of maritime history. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers interested in seeing Plymouth from the water without a long commitment. The affordability makes it accessible, and the commentary adds educational value.
Those interested in naval ships get an extra bonus with the chance to see ships and submarines up close. If you’re visiting during good weather and enjoy being on the water, you’ll likely find this trip satisfying.
However, if you’re after a detailed history tour, a longer activity, or traveling during bad weather, this might not fully meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
If a quick, affordable, and scenic way to get a new perspective on Plymouth appeals to you, this 1-hour harbour cruise is worth considering. It offers a good mix of natural beauty and impressive naval sights, all enhanced by knowledgeable guides and friendly staff.
While weather can be a variable, most reviews suggest that with clear skies, this trip becomes a memorable highlight of a visit to Plymouth. It’s a straightforward outing that provides solid value for money — especially if you appreciate views, ships, and coastal scenery.
Ultimately, this cruise suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back approach, are curious about maritime/naval elements, or simply want a relaxing way to see the harbor. It’s not overly elaborate, but that’s part of its charm — a simple pleasure that delivers on expectations.
Plymouth: 1-Hour Scenic Harbour Cruise
“My husband and I really enjoyed the cruise took us round the historic dockyard at Plymouth. Weather on the day was absolutely amazing. The guide ov…”
FAQ
Is this cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the boats are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility considerations to enjoy the trip.
How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but satisfying outing.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is recommended, especially during peak times, but tickets can also be purchased at the ticket kiosk near The Boathouse Restaurant.
Are there facilities on board?
Yes, the boat has toilets, and there is a licensed bar where you can buy drinks.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the cruise.
What’s the best time of year to go?
While available year-round, good weather days will offer the best views and experience. Check the forecast before booking during winter months.
What will I see during the cruise?
You’ll pass Plymouth Hoe, Drake’s Island, the naval dockyard, and see warships and submarines up close.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since it’s a short, engaging trip with plenty of sights for all ages.
Can I purchase drinks on board?
Yes, a licensed bar is available for hot and cold drinks.
How much does it cost?
The fare is around $16.84 per person, offering good value considering the sights and experience.
If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and engaging way to enjoy Plymouth’s harbor, this cruise is likely to deliver a memorable one-hour escape.
You can check availability for your dates here:
