South Devon watersports

Sailing in Dartmouth

Dartmouth has always had a rich sailing history and today is a renowned sailing port welcoming visiting visitors from all around the coast and overseas. A dazzling display of colourful craft lines the pontoons on both the Dartmouth and Kingswear banks of the river.

If you fancy finding your sea legs, you can jump aboard a luxury yacht and relax. Take an exhilarating rib ride or paddle your own kayak there are plenty of hire companies in Dartmouth where you can pick up all types of craft including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.

Alternatively, bring your own with you there are many launch spots along the river and beaches so grab a life jacket and discover the coastline and its wildlife at your leisure.

Boat hire in Dartmouth 

Hire your very own mini super yacht and explore the beautiful river Dart, an idyllic way to explore this ancient waterway, spot stunning waterfront houses, discover wildlife and the most spectacular views.

Dartmouth Boat Hire Centre 

Nothing can beat the thrill of a rib ride! These sturdy craft have been used by the RNLI for many years due to their excellent safety record and all-wether handling. So if you’re looking for an extremely fast exhilarating ride, the rib ride ticks all the boxes!

Dartmouth Rib Charter 

Power boating in Dartmouth

Discover the freedom of the sea with a power boat and open up a new world of watersports. Whether you fancy water skiing, donutting or just heading off to a remote beach only accessible from the sea, power boating adds a real highlight to the holiday.

All aboard for an exhilarating rib ride taking in Start Point, Salcombe, Hallsands or Berry Head. Great for seal, dolphin and sea bird spotting. Head to Nomad Marine, you’ll find them at Double Steps Pontoon, Dartmouth (TQ6 9AL) or call 07458 386787.

Cruising and boat trips

For a relaxing and educational boat trip, hop on a river boat which starts and finishes in Dartmouth.  This circular cruise showcases the hotspots of the River Dart including Bayards Cove, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dittisham village, Sir Walter Raleigh’s Boathouse, Greenway Quay and​ the estate​ of the late Dame Agatha Christie. Look out for seals, dolphins, herons, buzzards, egrets and the elusive kingfisher.

River & Harbour Cruises

Celebrate in style with The Fizz Boat crew.  Whether you’re celebrating something special or just getting together with friends, get out and about on the river and make waves as the fizz corks pop! Make it a day to remember!

The Fizz Boat

Paddleboarding in Dartmouth


Join the revolution! Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) must be the world’s fastest growing  watersports and anyone can do it with the help of a little tuition. You’ll soon be exploring the River Dart and discovering the secret spots which you can only reach from the water.

The Paddle Shack.

Sea kayaking in Dartmouth

What better way to get out on the water and discover Devon’s stunning coastline than with a kayaking adventure and there’s no previous experience required as expeditions are led by qualified instructors. A great family day out!

Sea Kayak Devon.

Wild Swimming in Dartmouth

Sugary Cove is the home of wild swimming – tucked away just around the corner from Dartmouth Castle. This peaceful secluded beach is perfect for taking a dip. A stunning spot for a scenic swim. 

Coasteering in Dartmouth

One of the most popular coastal activities! This growing sport involves swimming, climbing, jumping and walking along the rocky coastline.  If this high energy sport floats your boat it’s imperative you book with a qualified instructor and don’t try it alone. Try The Punishing Point, a coasteer around Start Point, one of South Devon’s most exposed headlands for sealife, caves, narrow gullies and great jumps!

Go Coasteering

If you’re planning to stay in one of our holiday cottages in Dartmouth, and arranging your itinerary of things to do in Dartmouth, don’t forget to book your watersports. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our team and we’ll do the leg work for you.