Step aboard

Set off on a classic Cornish boat trip with Helford River Cruises and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Helford River. Departing from our private quay, you'll step aboard a characterful19ft Cygnus motorboat for a relaxed 90-minuteriver adventure. Owners Hetty and Tom tell us what makes Helford River Cruises so special, and what you can expect from a trip out with them.

Can you share the story behind Helford River Cruises? How did the company get started?

Helford River Cruises began nearly 20 years ago when Budock Vean Hotel & Spa acquired a beautiful 19ft Cygnus boat from Fowey. It was then carefully brought to the Helford River to start its new journey on this picturesque stretch of water. We have been running the business for over 10 years with the invaluable help of Roger, our local boatman.

What makes you unique compared toother boat tours in Cornwall?

What sets us apart is our exceptional location in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our cruises offer scenic views, from the open river with its charming villages and award-winning gardens, to the enchanting creeks such as the renowned Frenchman’s Creek. Another unique feature is that we can explore almost the entire length of Frenchman’s Creek at high tide, while other operators can only access the mouth of the creek.

How do you decide on the routes or itineraries for your cruises? Are there any hidden gems along way?

Our routes are largely influenced by the tides and weather conditions, particularly when there's an easterly wind. Typically, we split the trip between the open river and the hidden creeks. For Private Charters, we can customise the itinerary to suit guests' preferences and interests. The creeks are undoubtedly the hidden gems of the river, offering a serene escape surrounded by temperate rainforest, mirrored waters and abundant wildlife - truly magical places to explore.

What’s the best time of year to cruise the Helford River?

We feel fortunate to experience the Helford River year-round, with each season offering something special. From the bluebells and budding ancient oaks in spring, to the visiting ospreys and stunning autumnal colours, there really isn’t a bad time to join us during the boating season (April to November).

What are some of the most memorable wildlife sightings guests have had on your cruises?

The Helford River is home to over 80 recorded fish species and serves as a nursery for bass, attracting larger marine animals. We’ve spotted bottlenose, common, and risso dolphins, with a memorable pod of nearly 20 common dolphins a few years ago. Three years ago, we witnessed a feeding frenzy of 10 or more bluefin tuna near Trebah Garden beach. In recent years, we’ve also had numerous sightings of Atlantic grey seals. For birdwatching, we often spot kingfishers in spring and autumn, as well as visiting ospreys in the autumn. We even had a pelican visit a few years ago!

What is your favourite part of the Helford River, and why?

Frenchman’s Creek is without a doubt my favourite spot. The peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by ancient oak woodlands and calm waters, makes it feel like stepping back in time. There are no roads, just a footpath - making it an idyllic and tranquil place to visit.

Can you tell us about any historical landmarks that your cruises pass?

The Helford River is steeped in history, with countless fascinating stories. Highlights include the 11th-century ferry crossing at Helford Passage, the 7,500 troops who launched from Trebah for the D-Day landings, the seahorses near Grebe Beach, the raiding of the customshouse at Helford Village, and the artist 'Powder' Percy Thurburn, who lived above Frenchman’s Creek. These are just a few of the many stories we uncover on our cruises.

What's a hidden gem or little-known fact about the Helford River area that you love sharing with guests?

One intriguing fact is that historians believe the Helford River was busier than the Thames around 450 BC, when the Phoenicians traded tin on the river. I also love sharing that the Helford River is technically not a river at all, but a ria – a sunken valley formed after the last Ice Age when the sea flooded the valley.

What does a typical day look like for you on the river?

A typical day begins about an hour before our first trip. We check the guest list and double-check the weather and sea conditions for the Helford River. Then, we paddle out to the boat and go through our daily maintenance checks before bringing her to the quay. Once the boat is ready, we meet and greet the guests on the foreshore, help everyone aboard safely, and provide a safety briefing before setting off. After the last trip of the day, we return the boat to its mooring, ensure it's fuelled for the next day, and either bid farewell to the Helford River or head out for some kayaking, depending on the time of day.

What can our guests expect from a cruise on the Helford?

Guests can look forward to a relaxed and informative 90-minute boat cruise aboard a traditional Cornish motorboat, taking in the stunning beauty and rich history of this unique sea inlet. Our boat is licensed to carry up to 12passengers, and we offer discounted rates for children, with infants sailing free of charge. Dogs are welcome by prior arrangement, with a limit of two dogs per cruise to ensure everyone's comfort. We hope you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of this picturesque corner of Cornwall.

For more information visit helfordrivercruises.co.uk. You can check availability, book your tickets online, and start planning your adventure on the beautiful Helford River.