Taking a Scenic and Naval Harbour Cruise in Plymouth
We seem to be addicted to travelling by boat recently, with our Carnival cruise, a trip down the Thames with City Cruises and now a scenic harbour cruise in Plymouth.
We hadn’t planned on going out on the water, but had some time to kill before our visit to the National Marine Aquarium and we spotted the boat trip being advertised (read, being promoted raucously) as we headed to Plymouth Hoe.
We bought our tickets for the harbour tour ands watched the everyone get on two other boats for the Plymouth Breakwater swim before getting on our boat to secure our seats on the top which offered commanding views over the harbour as it departed from the Mayflower Steps.
The skipper provided an informative commentary, as we sailed across Plymouth Sound which is flanked by the beautiful Devon and Cornish coasts.
We passed Plymouth Hoe and the famous Drakes Island, before heading for the river Tamar where the mighty warships and nuclear submarines awaited.
It was fascinating finding out about Plymouth’s maritime history and seeing the city from a different point of view, although Sebby was more impressed about seeing a huge Brittany Ferry arriving at the port.
The harbour is framed by fascinating buildings, old forts, memorials and statues all pointing at its history.
It was King Billy’s statue that drew giggles from Isaac and Eliza as we sailed past. The statue was originally a figurehead on the 120 gun warship Royal William – hence its name.
As we rounded the corner of the bay and into the River Tamar, the warships came into view.
It was really interesting looking into the hangars where warships are built and serviced.
If you look very carefully you may even spot a submarine or two.
The old Naval base buildings are a fascinating glimpse into history and look glorious from the water.
The Royal Citadel is perhaps the most impressive 17th century fortress in Britain and for many years England’s most important defence against attack from the sea.
Taking a scenic and naval harbour cruise didn’t cost the earth either at just £23 for two adults and 3 children. If you are visiting the area I would certainly recommend it – do take a coat though as it gets a bit chilly!!
Jen Walshaw
What a great way to get an alternative view of the city and its naval heritage. My boys would love this.
Emma Raphael
Sounds brilliant, you learn so much on these things don’t you? I love King Billy as well, he’s very ornate isn’t he? 🙂
Emma
I’ve never been attracted to visiting Plymouth but after reading your posts, I’m planning to take the children for a visit.
Gill Jacob
Great photos – can’t wait to show them to the boys xxx Wish we had something like that here so big thanks for sharing x
Miracle Max
Some gorgeous pictures here, I used to live in Plymouth. Unfortunately I’m not great on boats though which is a shame. Jo x
Coombe Mill - Fiona Cambouropoulos
Why have I not spotted this before? Plymouth is a regular shopping spot for us as it hosts the closest Primark to Coombe Mill! I love the Barbican and the Hoe and have spend many a happy post shopping trip chilling out with the kids there. I will be on the look out for these boat trips next, it really does sound good value.
Thank you for sharing with me on #CountryKids
Penny Alexander
Wow what an action and scenic packed harbour. I know what you mean about cruise getting addictive too!
Aly
I haven’t been to Plymouth in years, this makes me want to go back there.Boat trips are certainly a brilliant way to get to know a place that has so much history behind it.Over from Country Kids/
Cass@frugalfamily
My sone and husband would absolutely love this so I’ll definitely keep it in mind x x
tracey at Mummyshire
What a lovely photo of Plymouth Hoe from the boat
I do envy people who live close to the coast sometimes when I see posts like this. We’re in Oxfordshire one of the most landlocked places I’m sure!
This really does look you had a lot of fun, even if it was improptu, and Ican see why boat trips like this could become addictive!
#CountryKids
Sabina @MummyMatters
My friend is from Plymouth, I shall have to ask her if she has done this with her nieces it looks brilliant. My kids would definitely love it!
Emma
Wow, that looks like a fascinating trip. We’ve been to Plymouth a few times, but haven’t really taken the kids to look around properly. I am adding to my list!