Why Exmouth’s tourist cruises are a must-do in Devon
Year-round, Exmouth Marina is abuzz with life. It’s busier in the summer, sure, but even in winter, tourists and locals alike flock to the water’s edge. Wait there long enough, and you’ll likely see a bright red, yellow and blue vessel, with “Stuart Line Cruises” imprinted on the edge.
Exmouth’s tourist cruise company, Stuart Line Cruises constantly ranks in lists of the best things to do in not only the town, but the whole East Devon region.
It’s easy to see why, with reasonable prices and the chance to see some of the area’s best nature with an interesting commentary on the way, all run by the Stuart family! What’s not to love?
Here’s everything you need to know about Stuart Line Cruises.
This is a sponsored post, but as an Exmouth local, I have been a paying customer of Stuart Line Cruises for five years and these are my own views.
What does Stuart Line Cruises offer?
In Exmouth, we’re blessed to have two very different types of terrain. Head east, past the wide sandy beach and Orcombe Point, and you’re on the UNESCO Jurassic Coast.
But round the corner, pass the marina and you’re in the (usually!) quiet Exe Estuary, famous for its birdlife, which leads up to the historic port of Topsham.
Stuart Line Cruises’ two signature trips (although there are many more!) take in these.
River Exe Cruise
The River Exe Cruise was the first trip my partner and I tried out, not long after restrictions had lifted post-Covid lockdowns. It was a sunny afternoon, and we sat on the deck, taking in the seaside town we’d recently moved to.
We learnt about Powderham Castle, ancestral home of the Earl of Devon, and the silting of the Exe Estuary, before turning back toward Exmouth beach, trying to sail away from some looming clouds on the northern horizon.
But they caught up with us – in true British style, what was a gloriously sunny start to the trip ended up in a downpour!
The vessel has ample space, so we all migrated downstairs, my partner cheerfully buying a beer from the bar and me receiving a cream tea that I’d pre-booked.
The large windows mean you can still see plenty, whatever the weather, and the bar’s a definite bonus!
Jurassic Coastal Cruise
The next time I went on a Stuart Line Cruise, I took my mum on the Jurassic Coastal Cruise, which is 2.5 hours long (a Mini Coastal Cruise, at an hour long, is also offered!).
The UNESCO Jurassic Coast is England’s only natural UNESCO site, and it starts right here in Devon, stretching 95 miles to Studland Bay in Dorset! The boats don’t sail that far, but this area of coastline, which is the oldest part of the Jurassic Coast, is best experienced from the sea.
This time, it was a sizzling hot day, and after sunning ourselves on the deck, we again retreated downstairs, this time to find shade. I took some gorgeous photos of Ladram Bay from the window and we learned about the geology of the coast (did you know that here, it actually dates back to the Triassic age, not the Jurassic?), before returning to Exmouth.
We’ve since taken more family members and friends on both the River Exe and Jurassic Coastal Cruise; it’s our go-to whenever we have guests visiting.
Stuart Line Cruises: rain or shine!
Boat trips don’t have to be seasonal – and in Exmouth, we embrace all weather!
While Stuart Line Cruises’ Jurassic Coast offerings are only available when the sea is less choppy (aka the warmer months!), the River Exe’s calm waters mean boats can take to the river all year round.
Winter’s actually thought to be the best time to visit the Exe Estuary thanks to its birdwatching opportunities. It’s one of the top places in the country to see Avocet birds (our train line is even called “The Avocet Line”), which are migratory birds that flock around the waters in the winter.
Choose a mini coastal cruise to test the waters, or opt for one of their trips to Topsham. Some cruises stop in Topsham for a while (it’s a charming town with a great foodie scene) before heading back to Exmouth with an included train ticket.
The smooth waters of the River Exe also mean that even those with seasickness are able to travel – it’s like gliding on a lake!
Jurassic Coast options
The Jurassic Coast Cruises are more seasonal, but in the summer season (May to September) you can opt for a one hour or 2.5 hour trip, or join one of their day trips to Sidmouth.
These involve sailing past Orcombe Point, Budleigh Salterton and Ladram Bay and some time spent ashore in Sidmouth, a cliff-backed town that’s famous for its Regency architecture.
Special events
I’ve not tried these out personally, but Stuart Line Cruises also offers day trips to places on the English Riviera, including the pirate festival at Brixham.
At other points of the year, enjoy a cruise to Torquay, a visit to the town and then a return cruise!
They also host fish and chip nights, sail with Santa at Christmas, live music nights and many more themed cruises – check out their special events timetable (https://www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk/special-events-and-trips/#timetable link for all special events) to see all they offer.
Stuart Line Cruises accessibility
We recommend Stuart Line Cruises to everyone who visits, and my partner’s aunt, who is in a wheelchair, was delighted to hear that some cruises are manual wheelchair accessible. She checked in advance and found a suitable cruise, and had level access to the boat.
The tides of the Exe Estuary can change quite dramatically, so whether the boat has step-free access depends. But the team are more than happy to advise which will be accessible on each day; take a look at their accessibility page or get in contact for more information.
There really is something for everyone
When my partner has some friends visiting, they’ve enjoyed taking a cruise, buying a couple of beers and watching the world go by.
Family members who’ve visited have taken in the birdwatching opportunities, and for children, there’s Sail with Santa and other kid-friendly activities – and the facts in the commentary are fascinating for older kids!
While trips are accommodating to all, a few things stay the same – affordable tickets, friendly service and the glorious surroundings of Exmouth.
How to book
The best way to book Stuart Line Cruise tickets is on their website, where you can see their upcoming trips and select your favourite. See their timetable here!
No trip to Exmouth is complete without a Stuart Line Cruise; whether you venture along the Jurassic Coast or up the Exe Estuary (I recommend both!), you’ll see this part of East Devon like never before.
FAQs about Stuart Line Cruises
Are Stuart Line Cruises dog-friendly?
Yes, the majority of sailings are suitable for dogs (although not all). Take a look at their dog-friendly cruises page here for more information.
Where to park near Exmouth Marina
You can park along Exmouth beachfront for up to three hours. If you’re staying longer, the nearest long-stay car parks are:
- Exmouth Pier Head Car Park EX8 1FE
- Camperdown Car Park EX8 1EH
You can find more information about parking here.
Do cruises run in the rain?
Yes, cruises run even if it’s a bit drizzly! Boats have large heated undercover decks with big windows, perfect for cosying up with a cuppa and watching the Devon scenery.
Do cruises run all year?
Yes, in the winter Stuart Line Cruises only sails on the River Exe, which is calm and comfortable. This is prime time for birdwatching. In the summer, there are a wider range of cruises available!
Are cruises suitable for babies?
Yes, Stuart Line Cruises prides itself on being suitable for all ages. Prams and buggies can be accommodated on board and while there isn’t much space for baby changing, there is a mat on board and the crew will be happy to find a suitable space for it.
Are there toilets on board?
Yes, all vessels have clean, functional toilets.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes, as many cruises sell out, especially in the peak summer months. Book tickets online or by popping into the Stuart Line Cruises office.
What is the refund policy?
If a cruise doesn’t go ahead due to inclement weather or sea conditions (or any other unavoidable disruption), Stuart Line Cruises offer a ticket change or refund. If it is your choice not to sail, no refunds are issued.
I get seasick. Will I be able to go on a cruise?
The calm waters of the Exe Estuary mean that motion sickness is very unlikely on the Exe Estuary Cruises. Sea cruises will not go ahead if the water is too rough, and it’s unusual for people to get sick, but there is a higher chance than on the Exe Estuary if you are particularly prone to seasickness.
Is there a bar on board?
Yes, vessels have bars serving soft drinks, hot drinks, beer and snacks, and some cruises have the option to add cream tea.
