Smugglers Caves Cruise

at Ilfracombe Princess Cruises
Ilfracombe Available until Sat 31 Oct

Book Smugglers Caves Cruise tickets & enjoy a 1-hour coastal boat trip from Ilfracombe Harbour

  • Set off from Ilfracombe Harbour and head east along the North Devon coastline
  • Pass Hele Bay, Sampson’s Coves and Watermouth Harbour with views of Watermouth Castle
  • Cruise on to Broadsands, a hidden coastal gem, before reaching Combe Martin Bay
  • See historic smugglers’ caves and hear fascinating stories about the area
  • Spot wildlife such as porpoise and seabirds including oyster catchers and gannets
  • Short and scenic - perfect for families, first-time visitors and relaxed coastal exploring

From Watermouth Castle to Combe Martin Bay - caves, coves and coastline in one trip

  • Duration: 1 hour cruise
  • Age suitability: All ages welcome (children classed as 15 and under)
  • Departure point: Kiosk 2, The Quay, Ilfracombe, North Devon. EX34 9EQ
  • Tickets include: 1-hour sightseeing cruise along the North Devon coast
  • Wildlife: Porpoise, peregrine falcons, oyster catchers and northern gannets may be seen
  • Please note: Seating is first come, first served and upper deck seating cannot be reserved

Discover hidden coves and smugglers’ secrets from the water

The Smugglers Caves Cruise is a relaxed and easy way to explore the North Devon coastline, combining coastal views with local history. Leaving Ilfracombe Harbour, you’ll cruise past bays, coves and castles before arriving at Combe Martin Bay, where the famous smugglers’ caves hide within the cliffs.

It’s a great choice if you’re short on time but still want a proper on-the-water experience, with plenty to see and lots of photo opportunities along the way.

Book Smugglers Caves Cruise tickets today and enjoy one of the best short boat trips in Ilfracombe. Tickets delivered instantly via email & SMS.

Location

Kiosk 2

The Quay,
Ilfracombe,
North Devon,
EX34 9EQ
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

  • Go to Ilfracombe Harbour, then head for The Quay
  • Enter the harbour car park and look for Kiosk 2 — the operator states it is the last kiosk on the right
  • Allow extra time for parking; the adjacent pier car park can be full in busy periods
  • Aim to be at the harbour 30 minutes before your trip; boarding is 15 minutes before sailing
Facilities
  • Toilets on board
  • Sheltered accommodation on board
  • Open seating areas (including rear seating)
  • Upper and lower deck seating (upper deck not reservable)
  • Dogs welcome (lower deck only)
More Info
Is Ilfracombe Princess Cruises wheelchair accessible?

Ilfracombe Princess Cruises states it cannot accommodate wheelchairs due to safety, and boarding involves a minimum of 15–20 steps depending on the tide.

What age is Ilfracombe Princess Cruises suitable for?

Ilfracombe Princess Cruises welcomes children on cruises and states children are classed as 15 and under.

What do Smugglers Caves Cruise tickets include?

Smugglers Caves Cruise tickets include a 1-hour cruise heading east from Ilfracombe to coastal coves and Combe Martin Bay smugglers’ caves.

Are dogs allowed on board Ilfracombe Princess Cruises?

Yes. Ilfracombe Princess Cruises states dogs are welcome on board, but on the lower deck only.

Where can visitors park for Ilfracombe Princess Cruises?

Ilfracombe Princess Cruises states there are several car parks near Ilfracombe Harbour, including the pier car park adjacent to the harbour, and advises allowing extra time as it can be full.

What time should visitors arrive for Ilfracombe Princess Cruises?

Ilfracombe Princess Cruises advises arriving around 30 minutes before departure, and states boarding is 15 minutes before sailing.

Can Ilfracombe Princess Cruises be cancelled due to weather?

Yes. Ilfracombe Princess Cruises states it will contact customers if there are weather concerns and provides full refunds if it cancels due to weather or unfavourable sea conditions.

Are these the cheapest tickets for Ilfracombe Princess Cruises?

Yes, we guarantee price match or better. If you can find them cheaper, we want to match it so please get in touch here.

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