If you’re dreaming of sharing space with curious seals and catching a glimpse of dolphins while exploring the rugged Cornish coast, this boat trip might be just what you’re looking for. Though we haven’t personally tried it, reviews highlight a well-organized, intimate experience that offers more than just snorkelling — it’s an authentic encounter with Cornwall’s vibrant marine life.
What we love about this tour is how it combines a scenic boat ride with genuine wildlife spotting, all led by knowledgeable guides. The chance to observe seals nibbling fins or dolphins leaping alongside the boat adds an exciting, almost magical element. Plus, the fact that you get a full hour of snorkelling in the cold but clear Atlantic waters makes this stand out from typical coastal excursions. The only thing to keep in mind? The ocean can be chilly, so packing a good wetsuit or arranging equipment hire is a wise move.
This tour is best suited for confident swimmers who enjoy being in the water and want an active, hands-on experience. It’s not ideal for children under 11 or non-swimmers, but for those ready to get in the water and explore Cornwall’s underwater world, it promises a memorable adventure.
Good To Know
- Wildlife Encounters: You’re likely to see grey seals, dolphins, porpoises, whales, and seabirds.
- Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help spot wildlife and enhance your experience.
- Scenic Views: 360-degree ocean vistas from the RHIB provide a stunning backdrop.
- Snorkelling Adventure: About an hour in the water, with options to hire wetsuits if needed.
- Transport & Comfort: Departing from Penzance harbor, on a 7-meter RIB boat designed for stability and speed.
- Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.
The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect
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Meeting Point & Departure
Your journey begins at Penzance Harbour, specifically outside the Penzance Sailing Club near the large harbor car park (postcode TR18 2LL). The meeting point is easily accessible, and arriving early can give you a moment to soak in the lively harbor atmosphere. Once onboard the “Mis Me,” a sturdy 7-meter RIB boat, you’re set for a roughly 3-hour marine adventure.
The Boat Ride: Scenic and Educational
The trip out into Mounts Bay is where you’ll first appreciate the Cornwall coast from a different perspective. These boats are known for their stability and speed, making the ride smooth and exhilarating. Expect to be kept comfortable with waterproofs if the weather turns, and you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the boat’s 360-degree vantage point.
Wildlife Watching: A Natural Show
One of the most loved aspects of this tour, according to reviewers, is the chance to see dolphins, porpoises, whales, and sunfish. The guides are adept at spotting these elusive creatures, often pointing out dolphins playing in the wake or seals lounging lazily on rocks or swimming alongside the boat. Some guests mention that seals are quite curious and may nibble at fins, which adds a playful, close encounter element.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySnorkelling Experience: Taking in Cornwall’s Undersea World
The highlight for many is the approximately one-hour snorkelling session. You will be accompanied by a qualified guide who ensures safety and helps spot marine life. You must be confident in the water and able to exit the boat via a ladder. The Atlantic waters tend to be cold, even in summer, so a full-length wetsuit is essential — shorties are not enough for protection.
Snorkelling gear can be rented beforehand, including 5mm wetsuits, but it’s best to confirm availability and prices in advance. Reviewers mention that having a wetsuit makes a noticeable difference, allowing you to stay comfortable and enjoy the underwater surroundings longer.
Return & Reflection
As your trip winds down, you’ll head back to Penzance Harbour, with plenty of chances to reflect on the marine spectacle you’ve just experienced. The guides are praised for their patience and knowledge, sharing insights about the local marine ecosystem and the animals you encounter.
The Practicalities: What You Need to Know
Duration & Group Size
At 3 hours, this trip strikes a balance between being a comprehensive marine adventure and fitting into a busy schedule. The small group size — limited to 6 people — ensures a personalized experience, which is especially valuable in such an intimate setting.
Cost & Value
Pricing at $128 per person reflects the inclusions of the boat trip, the snorkelling session, and the expert guidance. Considering the rarity of close-up marine encounters, the trip offers solid value, especially for wildlife enthusiasts or those seeking a meaningful outdoor activity. Remember, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks and water for before or after.
What to Bring
Travelers are advised to pack warm clothing, sun hat, sunscreen, and water. As the ocean can be breezy and cold, layering is recommended. Your own snorkelling gear is preferred, but rentals are available if booked in advance.
Accessibility & Restrictions
This activity is suitable for ages 11 and up, requiring swimmers to be water confident and able to exit the boat via a ladder. Those over 250 lbs are not accommodated. Non-swimmers and little ones under 11 are discouraged, ensuring safety and comfort for everyone.
Cancellation & Flexibility
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, booking offers flexibility, especially if weather conditions or personal plans change. You can reserve now and pay later, a practical option for uncertain travel schedules.
The Experience in Context: Why It Matters
This tour isn’t just about ticking off marine animals; it offers a genuine connection to Cornwall’s coast. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm show in their ability to improve your chances of wildlife sightings and explain the local ecosystem. The boat ride itself is an adventure, with the feeling of being out on the Atlantic in a small, lively vessel.
The snorkelling session provides a rare chance to experience Cornwall’s undersea environment firsthand. The possibility of seals approaching or dolphins riding the boat’s wake transforms a simple boat trip into a memorable event. Plus, the small group setting makes it easier to ask questions and share the excitement.
From a practical standpoint, the trip balances adventure with safety, providing necessary gear and guidance. The cost is reasonable when considering the inclusions, and the experience’s authenticity makes it well worth the investment for wildlife lovers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits adventurous water lovers comfortable in open water and eager to see marine wildlife up close. It’s ideal for those who want a more active, participatory outing rather than just sightseeing from land. Families with confident swimmers over 11 will enjoy the close encounters, but non-swimmers or children under 11 should look for other options.
Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone curious about Cornwall’s marine environment will find this tour rewarding. The intimate group setting ensures a personal touch, so travelers looking for a quieter, more immersive experience will appreciate the smaller crowds.
Final Thoughts
For those craving a blend of scenic boat travel, wildlife spotting, and underwater exploration, this Cornwall snorkelling trip offers a compelling package. The chance to see seals nibbling fins, dolphins riding the waves, and whales surfacing makes it stand out among coastal adventures.
The guides’ expertise, combined with the boat’s stability and the opportunity to snorkel, create a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with safety. While the Atlantic waters are chilly, a good wetsuit and warm clothing over it make this an accessible and enjoyable outing.
If you’re ready for a hands-on encounter with Cornwall’s marine wonders, this trip delivers authentic, memorable moments that will stick with you long after you leave the coast. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to explore Cornwall from a different perspective.
FAQ
Do I need to have previous snorkelling experience?
You should be confident in the water and able to exit the boat using a ladder. No previous snorkelling experience is required, but water confidence is essential.
Can I rent snorkelling equipment?
Yes, snorkelling gear, including 5mm wetsuits, can be hired prior to the trip, subject to availability. Contact the provider in advance to confirm prices and reserve.
What should I wear for the trip?
Bring warm clothing, a sun hat, sunscreen, and water. The ocean can be breezy and cold, so dress in layers and consider a wetsuit for snorkelling.
Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 11 years old. Children over this age who are confident swimmers can participate, but under 11s are not recommended.
How long is the boat ride?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with about an hour spent snorkelling in the water.
Will I see marine wildlife?
While sightings can’t be guaranteed, the guides are experienced at spotting dolphins, porpoises, whales, and seals, which are common in this area.
What if the weather is poor?
Trips are weather-dependent. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if conditions are unsuitable.
Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the experience is limited to 6 participants, ensuring individual attention and a quieter, more personal adventure.
This Cornwall boat trip with snorkelling with seals offers a chance to get close to nature in an active and memorable way. Perfect for wildlife fans and water lovers, it promises genuine encounters and scenic beauty that will leave a lasting impression.
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