sunset boat trips st ives

• +447824166224
• General Enquiries

THE HOME OF BOAT TRIPS IN ST IVES​

THE HOME OF BOAT TRIPS IN ST IVES

Sunset dolphin cruise.

Our evening cruise to lands end is by far the best way to really discover our stunning location here in west Cornwall.

The evening trip is a 4 hour journey departing from st Ives harbour and will be covering over 20miles of stunning coastline and open ocean.

Along the way we stop at many wildlife areas including viewing the seals at seal island and then on to the famous tin mines of what’s known locally as the tin coast before we reach our final destination of the famous long ships lighthouse at Land’s End.

At our destination of lands end it’s another great photo opportunity for your group photo with the light house as your back drop and at this point a great time to enjoy that lovely picnic you bought along with a tipple or two to suit your mood.

This is trip is very weather dependent and we only sail when the conditions make a evening one to remember with that amazing sunset dropping behind us as we sail back to Porthmeor beech to watch it slowly disappear behind our beautiful blue ocean to what will be the end of your magical ocean adventure.

This tour is only available as a private/group charter for a group size of up to 12 passengers.

trip summary

Pick up location.

SMEATONS PIER, OPPOSITE HARBOUR MASTERS OFFICE, ST IVES

You will need to check in at the office 30 minutes before trip departure. 

Get in touch with Danielle for more information on Private Charters and how to book.

St Ives Boat Trips

Our boat trips and fishing trips are designed to give you the best experience of fishing from St Ives, Cornwall.

Whether you are an experienced angler, or a complete beginner looking to learn how to cast and catch, we have plenty of options to pick from and can provide all the equipment you need.

Quick Links

Get in touch.

• Mackerel Trips
• Private Charters

• Seal Island (Kids go free, T&Cs apply)
• Sea Safari (1.5hrs) Kids go Free off peak (T&Cs apply)
• Sea Safari (2hrs) Kids go free off peak (T&Cs apply)
• Captain’s Blog

CALL | 07582 033757

• St Ives Boat Trips...``From the salesman in the town to the crew on board they were amazing, made our holiday experience in Cornwall amazing. Even got to see the seals on a lovely sunny day...`` Trip Advisor Review.
• ``The trip was incredible, this was our first time and we weren't disappointed!`` Trip AdvisorReview...
• ``On the way back to the harbour the ride was really exciting - lots of splashes and all the children (and adults!) loved it.`` Trip Advisor Review....
• ``A fabulous session out in the boat to see the seals with Isla Bea. David the skipper was fantastic - well informed, polite and knowledgeable....`` Trip Advisor Review....
• ``We had a superb trip aboard the Isla Bea, saw seals a plenty and even dolphins. Kids were ecstatic. The perfect way to spend an hour, I would whole heartedly reccommend this trip. The skipper was super friendly and really knew his stuff....`` Trip Advisor Review....

St Ives Boat Trips | Boat Rides

Start your adventure in St Ives Bay!

Going on a boat tour in St Ives has never been easier or more enjoyable than with The Four Sisters. When you climb aboard, the safety and enjoyment of our customers is of our upmost importance. Rest assured that you’ll receive exactly what you hoped for and more! We have a great selection of tours to match every person and every budget. We invite you to come visit us for a one of a kind boat trip.

Our goal is to offer the very best boat trips in St Ives. We strive to provide our customers with the most enjoyable and leisurely trip around one of the UKs most breathtaking coastline. We are here to help with your every need. Check out our selection of trips below. Chat to us about Private Charters, Ash Scatterings, Proposals and more so we can create a bespoke package tailored to your individual requirements.

Why Choose Us..

• Kids go free!!  (off peak, 2 max, Ts & Cs apply)
• Family friendly boat trips
• Largest passenger vessel in St Ives
• Dogs welcome
• Relaxed & Traditional cruising
• Experienced & knowledgable local skipper
• St Ives Boat Trips | A boat trip you will never forget

GOOGLE REVIEWS

We are looking forward to a great 2023 season and we can’t wait to meet you all!

Book your seafaring adventure now,  or email us for general enquiries.

Call 07582 033757.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

Privacy Overview

Explore above and below the waves

Underwater sea safari.

An hour and a quarter excursion, our Underwater Sea Safari takes you away from St Ives Harbour across the bay to Godrevy Lighthouse or Westward to Seal I sland. We spend some time here watching the seals on the rocks or in the water, as well as this we spend some time observing the world below through the large glass bottom viewing area.

Taking full advantage of the glass bottom this is a fantastic trip for wildlife watching and loved by all ages.

What to go even further?

Brand new to 2023! Enjoy our fantastic glass bottom experience for even longer on one of our brand new excursions. 

Double the action with our Extended Sea Safari. A 2 hour 30 minute trip giving you twice as long to enjoy the local sea life and sights.

Experience the ultimate boat trip adventure on our 4 hour land's end sea safari, perfect for watching the sunset, private charter.

Fancy having the boat all to yourself? All of our trips are also available, with crew, for private charter.

Perfect for all sort of special occasions from birthdays to television work, or if you simply just want a private excursion.

Simply select 'Private Charter' when booking.

Any questions? Please check out our FAQs

An always popular sea safari travelling just over 3 miles westward to the Western Carracks, known locally as 'Seal Island'.

Find out more...

In the opposite direction to Seal Island is the wonderful Godrevy Lighthouse.

The NEMO is available, with a skipper, for private charter. Perfect for special occasions or if you'd simply like to enjoy the boat to yourself.

The NEMO is an Evolution 38, purpose built in Cornwall by Evolution Boats, Roche. It's modern design represents the best stability and safety that boats have to offer these days.

It was built in 2018 and is new to St Ives for 2021. We have repowered it with two brand new Mercury 150s and installed all new top of the range navigation equipment for added safety and peace of mind.

With eight glass viewing panels, the NEMO is one of the largest glass bottom vessels in the UK. Paired with advanced underwater lighting, we aim to provide the best experience possible from all angles.

The new petrol outboard engines are not only cleaner but significantly quieter than their diesel counterparts, allowing a more enjoyable boat trip.

Click on an image to see full size and additional information.

Proudly appointed

Where to find us

Outside the lifeboat station,

Wharf Road,

St Ives Harbour,

Email: [email protected] Tel: 0737 5758 123

Have a question? Please check our FAQs

St Ives Boats The best boat trips in St Ives

Call us today.

• 0777 300 8000

Call Us: 0777 300 8000

A great experience for all

St Ives boats - Boat trips, From the Harbour .

Welcome to st ives boats

Home of “Dolly P” & "Little Mermaid". Boat Trips St Ives

St Ives Boats offer daily boat trips leaving from St Ives harbour. Sea safaris on the famous “Dolly P” offer seal watching along the magnificent Cornish coast at Seal Island  or across the bay at the famous  Godrevy lighthouse on the “Little Mermaid”.

 On our trips we explore one of the UK’s most stunning areas.

St Ives Bay in Cornwall has been recognised by The Most Beautiful Bays Club as one of only 32 bays in the world and one of only 2 in the UK to meet the stringent requirements of outstanding natural beauty and interesting wildlife including dolphins, seals, sharks, whales and more.

Looking after st ives bay wildlife

We are an accredited wildlife safe operator ( WISe Scheme ) in St Ives Bay and our sea safari crew includes a British Divers Marine Life Rescue marine mammal medic who volunteers in a rescue role working with dolphins, whales, seals and much more.

Cornwall boat Trips For Everyone

Daily trips along the Cornish coast

Sea Safari to Seal Island, Cornwall

Our Seal Island boat trip is our most popular. Seal Island , (Western Carracks), lies 3½ miles (5.6km) West of St Ives, along the rocky Cornish coastline. Godrevy Island lies just over 3 miles (4.8km) to the East of St Ives. These rocky outcrops, near Zennor and Gwithian respectively, are homes to colonies of Atlantic Grey Seals, where they feel safe, and protected from predators and the forces of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Our Sea Safari trip is suitable for all ages.
• The trip is around one hour long.
• This is a dog friendly boat trip and they go free!
• 1 Hour Trip - Adults £25.00 | Under 12's £15.00 | Under 1's go FREE
• 2 Hour Trip - Adults £45.00 | Under 12's £45.00 | Under 1's go FREE

Two Hour Sea Safari Adventure

See so much more! Our longer safari provides varying destinations depending on wind, tide and the days wildlife sightings. From Portreath to Pendeen we can explore fascinating coastal sites including Hells Mouth, Godrevy Lighthouse and Seal Island or head out into deeper water to track larger wildlife. Don’t worry, there is a toilet onboard! 

Chat to crew Mike and Mike about their time sailing the world, rescuing marine wildlife and serving as lifeboat crew with the RNLI, all whilst seeing some of the UKs most stunning scenery and amazing wildlife.

• Our longer trip is suitable for all ages.
• The trip is around two hours long.
• Pricing: All £45.00 | Under 1's go FREE

Sea Fishing Boat Trips, St Ives

St Ives Boats now offers Sea Fishing Trips. A fishing trip from an old Cornish fishing harbour is often high on the things to do list for a holiday in Cornwall. Join Ian and Dougie, both former commercial fishermen, on an hour-and-a-half trip. The catch will vary but the crew know many of the best spots and even when the fish aren’t biting, they have a wonderful array of fishing tales to keep you entertained.

• Our Sea Fishing trip is suitable for all ages.
• The boat trip lasts around an hour and a half.
• Sorry no dogs on this trip
• Pricing: Adults £30.00 | Under 12's £20.00 | Under 1's go FREE

• Private Boat Hire

Want to hire a boat ? Dolly P holds a full license to comfortably accommodate up to 12 passengers, and we are delighted to offer private boat charters tailored to meet your specific preferences. In addition to our advertised trips, we are eager to cater to your bespoke excursion desires. Our goal is to exceed your expectations, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss your individual needs.

• Explore the dramatic, rugged shoreline of the North Cornish coast from St Ives Bay.
• Our boat trips get you up close and personal with Cornwall’s unique heritage and stunning array of wildlife.
• Join us to explore one of the UK’s most stunning areas in and around St Ives Bay.
• Pricing: Starting at 1 hour from only £275.00

Why Choose St Ives Boats?

St Ives Boats have been running boat trips along the St Ives coastline for over 20 years. Our experience and local Wildlife knowledge are second to none.

Boat Trips | Boat Hire | Ashes Scattering Trips | Read the Captain’s Log | Questions Answered | Get in touch

St Ives Boats “Dolly P”

• [email protected]
• Smeatons Pier, Wharf Rd, Saint Ives, TR26 1LP

St Ives Boat Trips

• Sea Safari to Seal Island
• Godrevy Lighthouse Tour
• Sea Fishing Boat Trip
• Ashes Scattering at Sea

Legal Stuff

• Terms & Conditons
• Privacy / GDPR Policy
• Cookie Policy

© Copyright 2022 St Ives Boats. All rights reserved.

Website by Voteq

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

15 Best Boat Trips From St Ives Cornwall

Published: Apr 12, 2023 · Modified: Apr 27, 2023 by Beth Sachs · Affiliate links - I earn from qualifying purchases ·

St Ives is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in the UK, boasting a stunning coastline and a rich maritime history. With so much natural beauty to explore, taking a boat trip is the perfect way to experience the undeniable beauty of the Cornish coastline.

From sea safaris to pleasure cruises, there are numerous boat trips available from St Ives that offer a unique coastal boat trip experience . In this blog post, I'll explore the best boat trips from St Ives, and highlight the different types of trips available, the natural habitats and local wildlife that can be seen, and the famous landmarks that can be explored.

Whether you're a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a lovely way to spend a sunny day, there's a boat trip from St Ives that's perfect for you.

Types of Boat Trips from St Ives

Boat trip operators, must-visit attractions, local wildlife encounters, safety first, frequently asked questions, st ives boat trips: a recap, you might also like, pleasure cruises.

One fantastic way to explore the coast of St Ives is by embarking on a pleasure cruise. These relaxing and enjoyable boat rides showcase the beautiful beaches, famous landmarks, and surrounding areas of St Ives. With knowledgeable skippers providing local knowledge and history, pleasure cruises are perfect for the whole family.

Sea Safaris

For a more thrilling experience, hop on a sea safari and get up close to the unique marine life in St Ives Bay. These trips are led by expert guides who are passionate about the area's natural habitat. You'll be able to explore the coastline, observing adorable seals, and other local wildlife while learning about their natural environment.

Fishing Trips

St Ives is well-known for its mackerel fishing opportunities. Deep sea fishing trips offer a unique experience where you can learn the art of catching fish in the wild Atlantic Ocean. Private charter fishing trips are also available for those wanting a more personalised experience.

Private Charters

For an exclusive adventure, consider booking a private charter (starting from £250 for 1 hour). These trips offer a more intimate trip, perfect for special occasions or for groups wanting to explore the coast at their own pace.

St Ives is home to several boat trip operators, each offering a unique experience. Here are some of the main boat trip operating from St Ives;

St Ives Boats

St Ives Boats is one of the most popular boat trip operators in St Ives and have been running boat trips along the St Ives coastline for over 20 years. They offer daily  boat trips  leaving St Ives harbour on the famous Dolly P to spot seals at Seal Island (or Godrevy, depending on the weather and sea conditions).

Their boats, the Dolly P and James Stevens No.10 are fully licensed to carry 12 passengers and they also accept  private boat charters priced at £275 for 1 hour.

St Ives Boats is accredited as the only wildlife-safe operator in St Ives and follows non-invasive boat trip practices.

ℹ️ St Ives Sea Safari on the 'Dolly P'

⏲️1-hour duration

💸 Adults £25, U12's £15, U1's Free

St Ives Boat Services

St Ives Boat Services is another popular boat trip operator in St Ives. They offer a range of unique experiences on their boat the 'Four Sisters', including sea safaris and private charter trips.

St Ives Boat Services is located at St Ives Harbour, and their trips are available from March to October. Passengers are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

ℹ️ Seal Island Trip

⏲️1.5 hours

💸 Adult £25, Child £15

ℹ️ Sea Safari (short)

💸Adult £25, Child £15

ℹ️ Sea Safari

⏲️2 hours

💸Adult £30, Child £20

St Ives Boat Cruises

St Ives Boat Cruises is a local family-owned business, established for nearly 20 years. They offer daily trips aboard ‘Tiger Lilly’ departing from St Ives Harbour to Seal Island (60 minutes), Godrevy Lighthouse (60 minutes), and they also run a 2-hour twilight adventure on summer evenings (£35). Private charters are from £250.

ℹ️ Seal Island

⏲️1 hour

ℹ️ Godrevy Lighthouse

ℹ️ Twilight Adventure

💸From £35

Nemo St Ives offers 1 hour 15 minute excursions to Godrevy Lighthouse or Seal Island on their glass-bottomed boat called 'Nemo'. They also do extended sea safaris to Pendeen Lighthouse (westward) or Portreath (eastward) which take 2 hours 30 minutes to give you double the fun!

ℹ️ Underwater Sea Safari (Seal Island/Godrevy Lighthouse)

⏲️1 hour 15 minutes

💸Adult £35 Child £25

ℹ️ Extended Sea Safari

⏲️2 hours 30 minutes

💸Adult £65 Child £50

ℹ️ Land's End Sea Safari

⏲️4 hours

💸Adult £95 Child £80

The Black Pearl

The Black Pearl offers trips to either Seal Island or Mackerel Fishing.

💸£25

ℹ️ Mackerel Fishing Trips

⏲️1 hour 30 minutes

💸£30

Seahorse Boat Trips

From sea safaris to viewing the local seal colony, dolphin spotting in the bay, private charters, or mackerel fishing, Seahorse boat trips offer something for all the family. They are also the longest-established boat business in the bay, and have been operating in the area for 40 years!

Their 10-metre vessel the Seahorse, is equipped with full safety features, approved by the Maritime Coastguard Association, to ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.

💸Adult £25 Child £15

ℹ️ Fishing Trip

St Ives Sea Trips

St Ives Sea Trips on their boat 'Little Mermaid' offers family-friendly sea safari boat trips from St. Ives Harbour to Seal Island or Godrevy Lighthouse, where you can view coves, bays, and a wide variety of marine life including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.

When booking a boat trip from St Ives, it's important to choose a reputable and accredited operator. All the operators mentioned above are safe and accredited and prioritise the safety of their passengers. Passengers should also book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

St Ives Bay & Harbour

St Ives Bay is home to the picturesque St Ives Harbour. This bustling area is the heart of all boat trips and the starting point for most adventures. With stunning scenery and beautiful beaches like Porthminster Beach, it's the perfect setting for a sunny day out.

Seal Island

One of the most popular boat trips in St Ives is the Seal Island trip in the Western Carracks. This rocky outcrop, located on the north coast, is home to a colony of grey Atlantic seals. An unforgettable trip to Seal Island will allow you to witness these adorable creatures in their natural habitat, basking in the sun or swimming playfully in the waters

Godrevy Island

A must-visit attraction is the famous Godrevy Lighthouse, located on Godrevy Island. The spectacular route to the lighthouse offers incredible views of the coastline and surrounding areas, making it a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

Seals & Dolphins

Grey seals are undoubtedly one of the main attractions in St Ives. Observing these charming animals in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The non-invasive boat trips to Seal Island and the Western Carracks allow you to get close to these adorable seals without disturbing their environment. You may also be lucky enough to spot dolphins on your trip too.

Marine Birds

The coast of St Ives is home to an impressive variety of marine birds, including Puffins. A boat trip along the coastline will provide ample opportunities to spot all manner of birds and learn about their natural environment from expert guides.

Mackerel Fishing

Mackerel fishing is a popular activity in St Ives, and a fishing trip offers a chance to catch these delicious fish in the Atlantic Ocean. With the help of experienced skippers, you'll learn the best techniques for mackerel fishing and enjoy a rewarding day at sea.

All boats should be equipped with life jackets and follow strict safety regulations to ensure a safe experience for all passengers. Expert guides and knowledgeable skippers are on hand to provide information, guidance, and assistance throughout your adventure.

Boat trips operate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to September, when the weather is more favourable and the sea conditions are calmer.

Boat trips can range from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the type of trip and the destinations being explored.

Yes, most boat trips are suitable for children, and many operators offer family-friendly tours with activities and entertainment for all ages.

Most boat operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on board. However, it's essential to check with the operator beforehand.

It's important to dress appropriately for a boat trip, especially if you're going on a long sea safari. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes with good grip. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Life jackets will be provided by the boat operator.

Boat trips from St Ives offer stunning views of the Cornish coastline and its natural environment. Depending on the type of trip you choose, you may see rocky outcrops, beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and local wildlife such as Atlantic grey seals and adorable seals. You may also see famous landmarks such as Godrevy Lighthouse.

With reputable and accredited boat trip operators, passengers can be assured of a safe experience with knowledgeable skippers and expert guides. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a boat trip from St Ives is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

Best Boat Trips from Newquay Cornwall

Where To See Seals In Cornwall

Best Places To See Dolphins in Cornwall

Best Beaches in Cornwall for Families

Dog Friendly Attractions in Cornwall

Best Bodyboarding Beaches in Cornwall

Best Carp Fishing Lakes in Cornwall

Top Snorkelling Spots in Cornwall

Best Food & Drink Festivals in Cornwall

Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter to stay up to date with what's happening in Cornwall!

More See & Do

OUR BOAT TRIPS

The Sea Safari Rib Ride visits our resident seal colony as well as taking in the main sights around St Ives Bay.

Duration: 45mins

Price: £30 per person.

Ultimate Sea Safari

*** SPECIAL *** Only runs when conditions and wildlife allow. Typically sunset dolphin trips. Call for Information. Limited spaces available.

Duration: 60mins

Price: £40 per person.

Bay Blast Rib Ride is a non-stop exciting thrill ride around st Ives bay, as well as a scenic tour of our rugged coast line.

Duration: 30mins

Monday to Sunday 8am to 7pm – Call (+447917801540) to book

Our rib rides are perfect boat trips if you’re looking for a safe and thrilling time out on the water. We can provide a thrilling blast around the magnificent St Ives Bay and a unique view of the Cornish coastline. Enjoy an up close encounter with some of the most beautiful and refined creatures in the sea or an epic sightseeing session with your friends and family.

Our boat trips will take you safely around Saint Ives Bay, passing many famous landmarks and beaches as well as pointing out some spectacular views and wildlife.

For more information please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page by clicking here.

WILDLIFE AROUND ST IVES BAY

PRIVATE CHARTER

Our skippered Private Charter offers you the opportunity to choose what you want to do. The boat is totally yours and at your command.

Blue Thunder on Instagram

“This is NOT your average boat trip . I HIGHLY recommend you put your doubts to the side and go for it, you will NOT be disappointed. Whilst out on our trip, we were extremely lucky to see Cornish grey seals in their natural habitat, AND dolphins, including a baby!”

“The warm, relaxed, welcome we received from those members selling the tickets, to the gentleman piloting the rib were an added plus to the whole experience. I probably should point out, lifejackets are provided, and we had a very young girl on our trip who seemed to enjoy it too.”

Join the ride and sign up for our newsletter

The Wharf | St Ives Cornwall | TR26 1LP

Phone: 07917 801 540 Email: [email protected]

© 2024 Copyright Blue Thunder Ribs | All Rights Reserved | Meor

BLUE THUNDER RIB RIDES ONLINE BOOKING

• Fishing Trips
• Private Hire
• Arriving & Parking

Set sail with Seahorse Boat Trips

Make your visit to St Ives Complete

From sea safaris to view our local seal colony, dolphin spotting in the bay, private charters or mackerel fishing, we offer something for all the family!

Make your visit to St Ives complete with a boat trip on the Seahorse. Leaving from the harbour, enjoy the breathtaking views along Cornwall’s Atlantic coast.

This three and a half mile trip lasts just over an hour and will delight passengers as they travel to meet a colony of Grey Atlantic seals. And look out for other fantastic marine life along the way, dolphins and porpoises are frequently spotted by our passengers!

Interested in a boat trip?

What you can see on our boat trips.

Amazing Views

We have nearly 40 years experience in offering pleasure cruises to holiday makers visiting the picturesque fishing village of St Ives, Cornwall.

Our ten meter vessel, the Seahorse, is equipped with full safety features, approved by the Maritime Coastguard Association, to ensure a safe, comfortable and memorable experience.

[email protected]

07745 994448 (ask for Mel)

Seahorse desk, St Ives harbour, The Old Slipway, St Ives TR26 1LH

Best Sunsets Spots Around

One of the joys of being on holiday is the chance to experience life’s simple pleasures – and having time to watch the sun set is definitely one of these. There are some stunning sunset spots in St Ives – try one (or more) of these.

Enjoy the height of summer with a game of cricket on the beach – Alastair Sopp

The Island and Porthmeor Beach

One of the best sunset spots in St Ives is the Island, the headland crowned by the little chapel that gives the town its distinctive silhouette. Walk up to St Nicholas’ Chapel at the top for the best views of the sunset, or find a bench on the quieter sea side of the path.

Beneath the west side of the Island is Porthmeor Beach . A lively beach with a café and a surf school, it’s still buzzing in the evenings in the summer; and if you fancy watching admiring the sunset with a grilled pilchard roll and a beer, this is the best place to be. Off season, it may be just you and the waves watching the sun go down.

The Huer’s Hut

Even in bustling St Ives, you can still find a quiet place to watch the sun set. Pick up the South West Coast Path from Porthminster Beach (a nice tarmaced stretch of coast path) towards Carbis Bay . The path’s a bit steep, but worth it, as you emerge to the most spectacular view.

Stop at the black-and-white Baulking House. This early nineteenth-century building was a “huer’s hut”. A “huer” was a lookout who would watch for pilchard shoals arriving in the bay. When he saw one, he would raise a hue-and-cry (hence the name) of “Hevva, hevva!”, and guide the fishing boats to the right place. Perch on one of the hut’s benches, and you’ll appreciate why this was such an outstanding lookout spot.

The sunrises are just as magical as the sunsets – Adam Sargent

Gwithian and Godrevy beaches

If you’re happy to drive to see a sunset, head out beyond Hayle and the 3-mile stretch of sand that forms Gwithian and Godrevy beaches. Park up, and watch a vast swathe of sky put on a show for you.

Less well-known is Hayle Beach , which is reached by crossing the road bridge at the west end of the town. There’s a car park (or you can park at the roadside), and from there, follow the paths through the dunes onto this quiet beach. Look back across the sands towards St Ives.

Go west…

Just beyond St Just, Cape Cornwall is a wild, rugged headland jutting out into the Atlantic. This is real mining territory; and from the top of the Cape you get a fantastic view of the engine houses scarring the cliffs. Park in the National Trust car park and take the path up the Cape to watch the sun vanish into the ocean.

Further west is the beautiful, sweeping beach at Sennen. With good facilities and excellent surf, it’s a popular place. However when the sun sets, a different set comes out to play, and the dark sands become scattered with the glow of beach barbecues. Grill yourself some fresh fish, or enjoy a post-sunset meal at Ben Tunnicliffe’s relaxed shore-side restaurant.

This far west, with so many uninterrupted views of the horizon, you could stay here for a year and visit a different sunset spot every night. You may even be lucky enough to have one of the best views of the St Ives sunset from your own balcony…

Article info & credits

Also around.

The Leach Pottery

Porthcurno Telegraph Museum

The Dog Groomer – St Ives

Welcome Aboard!

Experience the beauty of the River Great Ouse with St Ives Electric Riverboats Co.! Book your trip today and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river's scenic routes. Take in the sights and sounds of nature while you travel in comfort and style.

What We Offer

Something for Everyone

Our trips are fantastic for everyone. Whether your looking for a family adventure, a hen do with a

difference or a way to get back in touch with nature.

Our boats are both child and dog friendly. We look forward to welcoming you on the Quay with a smile.

Loved by Friends & Families

"Really lovely people that run it, really helpful and great little boat."

Jacqueline (google reviews)

Godrevy Island Tours &  Sea Safari

"Listen and Learn about the History of Godrevy Lighthouse and surrounding wrecks whilst spotting the majestic wildlife."

Hourly Boat Trips from St. Ives to Godrevy Lighthouse

Standing proud as the guardian of St. Ives Bay for almost 170 years Godrevy lighthouse has dominated the horizon. The surrounding waters are littered with shipwrecks, the island is teeming with sea birds and seals, a wonderful location offering amazing scenery and rich history.

The Lighthouse was constructed in the late 1850s to warn mariners of the dangers of the Stones Reef, Godrevy Lighthouse stands 26 metres tall on a small island just off the shoreline near the North Cliffs. Godrevy has been a familiar and welcoming sight for generations of St Ives seafarers, with many tales of rescue and bravery

Don't forget to wear your sunscreen,  and a warm top as sometimes it can be cold out at sea.

Waterproof Ponchos are available from Little Mermaid if needed, just ask Ian or Dougie!

Prepare for Your Sea Safari              

Embark on our 5-star rated guided tour today.

Want the whole boat to yourselves? Click the book entire trip option!

Pricing | Adults £25.00 | Under 12's £15.00 | Under 1's Go Free

Dog Friendly

St. Ives Sea Trips offers the best experiences in wildlife boat tours, seal watching tours, and dolphin watching tours.

A glimpse into your godrevy tour experience, depart st ives bay, tour godrevy island.

Check in on Smeaton's Pier for you tour 30 minutes prior to your trip time, for life jacketing, boarding guidance, and a safety briefing before taking the trip.

Join Ian and Dougie for Godrevy Island Tours, full of stunning scenery, history, and spotting some of the local marine inhabitants such as seals, dolphins, and a stunning array of seabirds. Imposing and unmissable Godrevy Island stands just over 3 miles East of the harbour.

Skirting the coast from St. Ives Bay to Godrevy Island, gives passengers a close-up view of, Porthminster, Carbis Bay, Lelant and Hayle beaches. The boat passes the mouth of the Hayle Estuary, the infamous Hayle Bar, then further up the coast to Godrevy Island.

Return to St. Ives harbour

Return to harbour, and enjoy the rest of your day.

Why not try...

Seal island sea safari.

Sunset Charter

Private Hire 1 or 2 Hours

Sea Fishing Experience

Win boat trip discounts and prizes! Claim your plunder here🏴‍☠️

Launching from St Ives Bay, Hayle & Penzance

Spectacular boat trips exploring cornwall's landmarks & diverse marine life, boat trips in cornwall, opening hearts & minds to the natural wonders of the cornish coastline..

Coast Boat Trips takes you on a spectacular boat trip around the Cape of Cornwall to see amazing wildlife and incredible scenery. Our tours are an interactive learning experience with expert guides talking about the weather, wildlife, geology and history of Cornwall.

“What a fantastic way to experience the Cornish coastline! Jack was so knowledgeable about all the wildlife and made us feel very safe. The kids absolutely loved it and we can’t wait to book in again next year!”

Sherry Roberts, Nottingham

Gift Vouchers

A Coast Boat Trip is the perfect gift for your loved ones! 

our boat trips

All-weather fun.

Our boat trips cover the entire Cape of Cornwall. This means we choose the best sea conditions for your trip

Incredible Scenery

You will see some of the most famous mind-blowing scenic locations in the UK. Perfect for your Instagram feed!

See Marine Life

Being so close to the open Atlantic Ocean, we typically see a diverse array of sea life such as dolphins, seals & whales

Expert Guides

Every trip has an expert guide who will explain the wildlife, ecosystem, rich history & environment

Exciting BOat Trips

Enjoy the safest boat in class. Humber ribs are used by the military, police & are often used as safety boats

Godrevy to Hell's Mouth Boat Trip

Rounding cornwall boat trip experience, mount's bay discovery boat trip, golden hour boat trip experience, lands end boat trip experience, the north coast boat trip experience.

Iconic Coastal Landmarks of Cornwall

We will bring the Cornish landmarks to life as you experience Cornwall’s most iconic locations from the Atlantic Ocean. Our guides will provide insight to the rich history of smuggling, fishing and mining. A trip you will never forget.

encounter wildlife

The ocean is not a zoo we and can’t guarantee what you will see. However, we can guarantee you will see a lot!

As a non-invasive boat trip. All the wildlife is undisturbed in their natural environment. This approach gives an unforgettable experience that you can truly feel privileged to encounter.

Private Boat Hire

Our private boat hire option gives you the chance to explore the coast and go anywhere you wish. You write the story and we make it happen. This is perfect for families and large groups who want to do something a little different.

All-weather trip flexibility for guaranteed fun!

We cover both sides of the Cornish coast. The trip flexibility ensures our guests the best boat trip experience for the forecasted weather to see the local wildlife and iconic locations at its best.

captain's blog

Humpback whales in cornwall..

The Return of Bluefin Tuna to Cornwall

Putting Cornwall’s Marine Wildlife on the Map

Visiting Penzance: The Best Things To Do

ALl Aboard!

Begin your coast boat trips adventure, © 2023 coast boat trips – sitemap | website terms | privacy | about website.