Visit– Falmouth | Malpas | Trellissick House | St Mawes | Pendennis Point | Helford River
Eat– Pandora Inn | Heron Inn | The Working Boat | Boat picnic | Ferry Boat Inn | Shipwrights Arms
Wildlife– Herons | Egrets | Buzzards | Cormorants | Kingfisher | Seals | Dolphins | Porpoises.







Our motor boats can take you around to Falmouth in around forty minutes or so, where you will usually be able to see plenty of impressive ships and boats, stop off on a visitor pontoon (for a small fee) to explore the historic town, or grab something to eat in one of the many pubs and restaurants it offers
If good food and drink is what you’re after, the pretty Pandora Inn is just around the corner from us in the entrance to Restronguet Creek, approximately fifteen minutes away. Please contact us if you would like to visit it and we can advise on a suitable day/time. Please heed our advise or you will spend several hours stuck in the mud, longingly watching others enjoying their pints whilst you are utterly unable to have your own
The pretty fishing village of St Mawes is less than an hour away, and again it offers visitor pontoons to allow you to moor your boat and stop off to explore or enjoy some fish and chips. There is a small charge for using their pontoon, and they are only accessible at certain tide heights on which we can advise on your arrival or earlier call.
An impressive National Trust property with stunning gardens and grounds, is located overlooking the mouth of the river Fal around a forty minute journey away. It has a visitor pontoon allowing you to arrive by water to enjoy a look around the grounds or a visit to the tea room (bring your National Trust cards for a walk through the gardens).
Malpas is about an hour and a quarter up river, it is a pretty village situated at the junction of the Truro and Tresillian rivers. The Heron Inn was built in 1830 and is a great place to stop of coffee or lunch. There is a visitors pontoon which has small charge, it is accessible all states of tide.
There is a huge amount to see, from the two Henry VIII castles on Pendennis Point and St Mawes, which once protected the Carrick Roads from the Spanish Armada, to the plentiful wildlife. Herons, little egrets, buzzards and cormorants abound, with the chance of spotting a kingfisher and strangely for a brief period in 2017, a somewhat out of place pelican. You may well see the head of a curious seal popping out of the water, or a group of them soaking up the sun on Black Rock at a low tide. If you’re very lucky, you may be joined by a pod of dolphins or porpoises.
Under sail it will take around two and a half hours depending on weather conditions to get to the Helford.
-Good anchoring spots
-25 visitors’ moorings, £16 per night up.
- Beaches & Pubs
Fun fact: Frenchman’s Creek is both the title and setting of the enchanting Daphne du Maurier novel.
Falmouth Boat Hire – Places to Visit by Boat
Falmouth boat hire is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the Fal Estuary and surrounding Cornish waterways. The area is sheltered, scenic, and ideal for relaxed cruising, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced boaters.
A visit by boat in Falmouth gives you access to quiet rivers, historic harbours, and hidden creeks that cannot be reached by road. You can set your own pace, choose your route, and stop wherever something catches your eye.
Why choose Falmouth boat hire?
Falmouth boat hire is popular because it offers calm waters and short cruising distances between interesting locations. Instead of long offshore journeys, you can enjoy a relaxed day exploring the River Fal system and nearby coastal villages.
It is ideal for families, first-time boaters, and anyone wanting a simple and flexible way to experience Cornwall from the water.
Where can you visit by boat from Falmouth?
There are many great places to visit by boat from Falmouth, all within easy reach. Popular destinations include St Mawes, Malpas, and the wider River Fal area, each offering something different to explore.
These short cruising routes make it easy to combine sightseeing, wildlife watching, and stopping at waterside locations along the way.
Best places to visit by boat Falmouth
One of the highlights of Falmouth boat hire is the variety of places you can visit in a single trip. The River Fal and surrounding creeks offer a mix of peaceful anchorages, historic villages, and traditional pubs.
- St Mawes – A charming harbour village with beaches, cafés, and St Mawes Castle.
- River Fal – A calm and scenic estuary filled with wildlife and quiet anchorages.
- Malpas – A riverside village home to the popular Heron Inn.
- Pandora Inn – A famous waterside pub on Restronguet Creek, accessible by boat.
- Helford River – A beautiful, natural area with secluded creeks and anchor spots.
These destinations are what make a visit by boat Falmouth experience so special. You can explore at your own pace, stop for food or drinks, and enjoy some of Cornwall’s most scenic waterways.
What to expect on your trip
Most Falmouth boat hire routes are sheltered and easy to navigate. Conditions are generally calm, with plenty of short cruising legs between destinations. This makes it ideal for relaxed day trips rather than long-distance sailing.
Wildlife is also a big part of the experience, with regular sightings of seals, seabirds, and other marine life along the estuary.
Plan your visit by boat Falmouth experience
Whether you are planning a short outing or a full-day adventure, Falmouth boat hire gives you access to some of the most beautiful waterways in Cornwall. With so many places to visit by boat, every trip can be completely different.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience for Falmouth boat hire?
Yes, you need sailing experience for our Shrimpers and your day skipper for the Jeanneau Sun2500.PLease take a look at our motor boats if you do not sail.
Where can I visit by boat from Mylor, near Falmouth?
You can visit St Mawes, the River Fal, Malpas, Pandora Inn, and Helford River. These are all within easy cruising distance and offer places to eat, explore, and anchor.
How long does it take to reach popular destinations?
Most locations are within 30–90 minutes depending on tides and boat speed. St Mawes is usually around 40–50 minutes from central Falmouth waters.
Is the area suitable for families?
Yes, the sheltered waters of the Fal Estuary make it a popular choice for families looking for a safe and relaxed boating experience.
Can I stop for food or drinks on the way?
Yes, many routes include stops at waterside pubs such as the Pandora Inn and Heron Inn, both popular destinations for boat visitors.
Life raft beyond Black Rock
2023 UPDATE – Due to Truro Harbour Authority now requiring a life raft to be carried beyond Black Rock
JEANNEAU SUN 2500 – Included
SHRIMPERS: if you wish to sail out of the estuary you MUST either rent a life raft or provide your own, serviced and appropriately sized life raft.
Renting a life raft: £15 per booking. Booking in advance is essential.
It is strictly prohibited to leave the estuary with out one, no exceptions can be made and we have a limited number of life rafts. We are very sorry for this inconvenience, the Harbour Authority has given us no choice.
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01326 377745