From coastal cruises to shark fishing – here’s your guide to getting out on the water.
Whether you’re after a relaxing day afloat or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, North Devon’s coastline has something for everyone. From scenic boat trips to seal swims, sea safaris to stand-up paddleboarding, here are 12 fantastic ways to experience the sea during your next visit.
We’ve rounded up some of the best local providers and activities to help you plan your next adventure.
Boat Trips & Sea Safaris on the North Devon Coast
Ahoy there! Cast off and have a sea adventure along the Ilfracombe coast and beyond – fresh air, great views, and amazing sea-life. It’s not a day out, it’s a memory forever.
Ilfracombe Princess
A large, family-friendly cruiser offering coastal trips to smugglers caves, seal colonies, and the Exmoor cliffs – or opt for a stunning sunset cruise.
ilfracombeprincess.co.uk
From £16–£30 | Dog-friendly
Ilfracombe Sea Safari
Hop on a fast RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) for a thrilling ride along the coast. Choose from waterfall safaris, seal-spotting tours, or a shuttle to Lundy Island.
ilfracombeseasafari.co.uk
From £24.75–£85
Kittiwake Charters
For something more peaceful, try these small-group cruises (max 12 guests) exploring hidden coves and the Bull Point lighthouse.
kittiwake-charters.co.uk
£24 adults | £12 under 12s
Have fun on the waves, it’s a great day out on your own or with family and friends.
Fishing Trips From Ilfracombe
Fishing is a wonderful pastime. Whether you’re a newbie or know one end of the rod from the other – a fishing trip in Devon is a great way to while away a restful day.
Bluefin Charters
Perfect for anyone keen to try deep-sea fishing. Trips target species like ray, cod, tope and pollack.
bluefincharters.co.uk
From £75 for 4-hour trips
Wild Frontier Charters
From short trips to full-day excursions, this modern catamaran also offers diving and seal swimming.
wildfrontiercharters.co.uk
Reel Deal Charters
Specialists in summer fishing for bass, tope, rays and mackerel — plus shark fishing trips for the adventurous!
reeldealcharters.co.uk
Predator 2 Charters
Light lure fishing and specimen trips, targeting large tope and porbeagle sharks.
boatfishingdevon.co.uk
Sea Swift Charters
Ideal for families and beginners – 2-hour reef trips where you can catch codling, wrasse, mackerel and more.
seaswift.co.uk
Sea Sports & Adventures in Devon
For thrill seekers there’s so much action and adventure along the Devon coast. Find out about action-packed days out at sea – interact with nature while giving yourself a physical challenge you’ll never forget.
Ilfracombe Watersports Hub
A great base for coasteering, kayaking, open water swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding.
ilfracombewatersportshub.co.uk
Coastal Adventures North Devon
Known for safe, fun coasteering and paddleboarding — perfect for families, friends or even corporate groups.
coastaladventuresnd.co.uk
Easy Divers North Devon
Explore underwater with scuba diving trips, including seal swims off Lundy Island.
wildfrontiercharters.co.uk
Island adventures – Boat Trips From Ilfracombe
Lundy Island is top of many visitors’ wish list when they come and stay in Ilfracombe. It’s a wildlife hotspot and fantastic day trip.
Lundy Island
Just 12 miles off the coast, Lundy Island is a true North Devon gem. Take a boat from Ilfracombe and spend the day exploring this peaceful, wildlife-rich island. It’s home to puffins, grey seals, Soay sheep and Sika deer, with dramatic cliffs, panoramic views, and even pirate legends in its past. Read our full Lundy Island guide
Plan Your North Devon Holiday Adventure
Whether you’re returning to North Devon or visiting for the first time, getting out on the water is one of the best ways to make memories. Many of these providers book up quickly in the summer – so it’s worth planning ahead!
Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out our accommodation options and start planning your next coastal escape.
