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Totnes to Dartmouth boat trips – all you need to know

Are you researching Totnes to Dartmouth boat trips? You’re in the right place with this article!

The River Dart’s a rich tapestry of lush green fields, sleepy villages, and diverse wildlife.

And how’s the river best experienced? From the water itself! 

You can do this by embarking on a cruise with the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company – which I recently did on a trip to Totnes and Dartmouth. 

If you’re planning on taking the Totnes to Dartmouth cruise, this blog post is a full guide to everything that you’ll need to know about the trip. 

Table of Contents

Totnes to Dartmouth boat trips: my experience

The charm of the river and its surroundings gently unwound as my boat slowly chugged down the river. 

As we began our journey, the boat’s movement was mirrored by the smooth, blue ribbon of the river that snaked through a panorama of green fields. 

Serene and spectacular, the river began as a ribbon cutting through Totnes but as we followed the bright green fields, the river broadened gradually.

The verdant banks gave way to different villages, each a world in itself, imbued with its own unique history and charm.

Things to see along the River Dart

The River Dart isn’t just a pretty place to visit. The running commentary on board kept us entertained, weaving fascinating stories about each sight we passed.

We learned about the curious ‘Hole in the Wall’ , which was caused by damage to a river wall built by Dartmoor prisoners. 

There were also beautiful viaducts built by famous South West architect Brunel .

“And over there’s the village of Duncannon” , the guide said, motioning to a collection of three houses on the side of the bank. “No, I haven’t gone mad – it’s actually a village and not a hamlet”.  

“This is due to a census error where a few extra zeros were added onto the population and number of houses of the village!”. 

We sailed past the villages of Stoke Gabriel – home to a scrumpy so potent that it’s only served in half-pint glasses – and Dittisham , where Kate Winslet and the lead singer of Jamarouquai both have properties. 

“You might notice we’re weaving around the river a bit” , our guide said, as we meandered from left to right.

We were in the middle of a place affectionately called “the lake of the Dart” , due to its apparent lack of exits when you’re floating in the middle. 

“We’re not lost, and I promise we haven’t had too much scrumpy”. He continued. “The Dart’s quite a shallow lake, and a vessel of our size has to follow the deep water channel”. 

As the boat glided on, we encountered Greenway House , Agatha Christie’s beloved summer home, and its nearby quay featuring the most photographed thatched roof cottage on the Dart.

“There’s certainly a particular fairytale feel to it”, the guide commented. 

As we sailed into Dartmouth, an unexpected delight was seeing the ‘face house’ , its windows and doors creating the illusion of a face. “In the evening, lanterns glow in the ‘mouth’”, the guide explained. “ Local kids think that they look like teeth!”

Animals in the River Dart

While there was a surprising among of history and culture on the cruise, its significance as a nature hotspot can’t be ignored. 

A popular spot for twitchers , the River Dart is home to cormorants and little egrets , among plenty of other types of birdlife. 

“Seals even swim up this far sometimes”, we were told. “There’s a colony of them right by the river mouth, but it’s not uncommon to see them bobbing around here”. 

Just before reaching Dartmouth, the imposing Royal Britannia Naval College came into view, a proud institution where many members of male royalty have stayed and studied.

90 minutes after departing from Totnes, we disembarked onto the quay at Dartmouth , home to the fascinating Dartmouth Castle – which was my next point of call. 

How to book tickets

Tickets can easily be booked online on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company’s website .

Or if you prefer, you could buy them in person at their ticket offices in Totnes or Dartmouth . 

Round Robin Ticket

Consider the Round Robin ticket for your return journey – this ticket includes a nostalgic steam train ride between Kingswear and Paignton . 

The short ferry connecting Dartmouth and Kingswear is included in the price of the Round Robin ticket. 

To travel between Totnes and Paignton , the bus connections are also included in the ticket – so you can start in any town on the route, and spend time enjoying them while you’re on your journey! 

The cruise operates regularly between Totnes and Dartmouth, but the timing varies depending on the season. 

Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

The journey lasts approximately 90 minutes, a leisurely cruise that allows you ample time to soak in the surroundings.

About Totnes

Totnes, nestled at the mouth of the River Dart, is steeped in history and culture. 

From the historic Totnes Castle and Guildhall to a vibrant arts scene, there’s plenty to explore before you embark on the cruise.

Or, if you take the Dartmouth to Totnes cruise the other way , you can enjoy walking around Totnes or having a drink at the Royal Seven Stars pub to toast to a successful day exploring South Devon !

Check out all of the best things to do in Totnes by clicking here.

About Dartmouth

When you reach Dartmouth, you’ll be greeted by a town that beautifully blends history and aesthetic charm. 

The deep-water port , prestigious Naval College , and narrow, winding streets attract tourists in their droves. 

Don’t forget to visit the historically enchanting Dartmouth Castle and take in tremendous views from the South West Coast Path ! 

Check out my full guide to Dartmouth by clicking here. 

Tips for the cruise

Here are my top tips for taking the Totnes to Dartmouth or Dartmouth to Totnes river cruise! 

• Bring cash: There’s a bar onboard for you to enjoy a drink or two, but remember, it’s cash-only.
• Dogs welcome: Dogs are welcome on the cruise, but they must be kept on a short lead.
• Arrive early: Get there about half an hour before the cruise begins and start queuing to secure the best seats.
• Take your pick of seats: The boat has both upstairs and downstairs areas for you to choose from.
• It’s a relaxed journey: The journey is generally calm, posing little risk of motion sickness. However, if you’re prone to it, you might want to take your medication as a precautionary measure.

Are you ready to take the Totnes to Dartmouth cruise boat?

The Totnes to Dartmouth cruise boat is, without a doubt one of the best ways to explore South Devon. 

The countryside of the South Hams is effortlessly beautiful, but cruising on the river takes the scenic views to a whole new level. 

It’s a unique journey that beautifully captures the charm of the River Dart and its surroundings, combining the enthralling attractions of both the ancient town of Totnes and river-based Totnes. 

This unforgettable river cruise awaits in South Devon—don’t skip it!

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• Things To Do
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Totnes Boat Trips, Totnes, South Devon

Boat trips from Totnes

Totnes is located on the River Dart. The boat trip running between Totnes and Dartmouth is a South Devon classic.

Head down to the Totnes Steamer Quay if you're staying in Totnes. There's plenty of parking down on the quay if you're driving from other areas of South Devon. Book tickets at the kiosk.

Location of Totnes Steamer Quay

We've positioned Totnes Steamer Quay on Google maps. Zoom in on the 'Satellite' setting to see its location.

Classic River Dart and South Devon boat and railway trip

The classic River Dart and South Devon boat and railway trip is the Round Robin provided by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company.

Start at Totnes Steamer Quay. There's plenty of parking along the east side of the River Dart. One car park is by Totnes Steamer Quay. There's another overflow car park further down. These car parking areas are clearly visible on Google's satellite imagery. Charges apply.

The Dartmouth Totnes River Cruise takes you downriver to Dartmouth. They provide commentary and you'll pass Sharpham, Dittisham and Greenway (National Trust) on your way.

Take the Dartmouth Kingswear Lower Ferry to Kingswear.

Hop on the Dartmouth Steam Railway to Paignton Station. This part of the trip provides sensational views of Tor Bay and The English Riviera.

Ride on the bus back to Totnes Steamer Quay.

Clearly, you can take the trip in the other direction.

Dartmouth Totnes River Cruise

If you only want the boat trip then book a return on the Dartmouth Totnes River Cruise. See the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company for detail.

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Sidmouth Town Beach

Discover the river dart at totnes.

The River Dart is a stunning waterway winding for 47 miles from the heart of Dartmoor to its magnificent estuary in Dartmouth. This gem of South Devon offers visitors an abundance of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and the chance to have fun.

Set halfway between moor and sea, you’ll find the thriving town of Totnes - the ideal destination for a couple of days or more at any time of the year. Read on to discover River Dart walks, how to get out on the water, where to enjoy the best local food, and to discover how the river has given Totnes a rich history to explore.

River Dart walks in Totnes

Amble by riverside meadows and salt marshes to enjoy beautiful views of wildlife and the countryside. The paths to Dartington and Longmarsh both start in the town and are accessible for all. You’ll have a choice of cafes back in Totnes to treat yourself to coffee and cake afterwards!  Find maps and route guides here: https://visittotnes.co.uk/nice-walks-in-totnes/

Getting out on the water

With fabulous wildlife to spot and stunning views, getting out on the water is a truly memorable experience. The River Dart in Totnes is a popular location for paddleboarding and kayaking. One of the best places to launch is at Longmarsh, Totnes. There’s a car park here and an easy-to-access slipway.  If you don’t have your own SUP or kayak, you’ll find a choice of local options to hire these.

Quaint Dartmouth is situated on the banks of the river and is easily accessible from Totnes for a day trip. Take the Stagecoach number 92 bus, which runs regularly and takes around 30 minutes.  Alternatively, enjoy the 45-minute boat trip along the beautiful River Dart when you catch the River Boat that leaves from Steamer Quay, Totnes.  Boat times vary depending on the tides and time of year, so check and book first. 

Find out more: https://visittotnes.co.uk/enjoy-exploring-the-river-dart-in-totnes/

Historic Totnes

Meander along the streets to admire Totnes’ historic buildings in the shadow of the town’s majestic Norman motte and bailey castle. At the free-to-visit Totnes Guildhall you can see the original cells where, until 1887, prisoners awaited trial and punishment. Totnes Museum is a treasure trove that’s not to be missed. The medieval Dartington Hall and Gardens is a pleasant walk from the town centre. 

Check out our choice of the top seven historic sites to visit in Totnes: https://visittotnes.co.uk/seven-best-historical-sites-to-explore-in-totnes/

Food, drink, and shopping in Totnes

If you like to shop, you’ll love the treasures on offer in the independent stores lining Totnes’ thriving high street. There’s a strong emphasis on local and handmade goods, with everything from fashion to fudge ready to tempt you. On Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, the market square buzzes with over 50 stalls selling an eclectic mix of vintage collectables, food, and crafts. On the second Tuesday of every month from April – November, you can meet the makers at the Indoor Artisan Market at the Civic Hall, above the Market Square.

For more information on the river, walking maps, things to do, places to eat, and places to stay, head to our website: www.visittotnes.co.uk/discover-the-dart

See more from Visit Totnes

Visit Totnes

Totnes & The River Dart

• Introducing South Devon & Dartmoor
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• Totnes & The River Dart

Of all the larger towns in Devon, this is perhaps the most rewarding to visit…

The Dart is one of the loveliest rivers in England and, like Devon’s three other great rivers, the Exe, the Plym and the Taw, has played an important part in shaping the county’s history. It rises in Dartmoor and meanders down to Dartmouth for 42 miles, with the lower 11 miles tidal. Totnes , at the upper navigable end, has been a prosperous town since at least the 10th century, and continues the trend thanks to the energy and creativity of its inhabitants. Of all the larger towns in Devon, this is perhaps the most rewarding to visit, so provides a perfect starting or finishing point for a walk or cruise down/up the Dart. Although Totnes is as far inland as you can go by passenger boat, the Dart is still a significant presence north of the town, and Dartington Hall , with its focus on sustainability and the arts, perfectly complements the spirit of Totnes. The South Devon Railway follows the river upstream as far as Buckfastleigh.

As the river snakes its way south, it passes small villages or grand houses which flourished as a result of their location and then subsided into tranquillity when water transport ceased to be viable. Now they are an ideal base for exploring this exceptionally scenic part of Devon, and for refreshment while walking the Dart Valley Trail . At the river mouth is Dartmouth , and its twin town Kingswear , which have been enchanting travellers for centuries, and to the east and west stretches the South West Coast Path .

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Discover the Dart – Totnes to Dartmouth 

• January 11, 2024

Winding for 47 miles from the rolling hills of Dartmoor and ending in Dartmouth, the River Dart is a must-visit destination for visitors who want to explore Devon’s rich bounty of natural beauty, on-the-water adventures, historic landmarks and unique wildlife.     

The river starts as two separate rivers, the East Dart and the West Dart which come together at Dartmeet. It flows southwards past Buckfast and Buckfastleigh, through Staverton and around Dartington on the outskirts of Totnes.     

Between Totnes and Dartmouth, the River Dart offers copious activities, attractions, accommodation and eateries. Below we’ve highlighted our top places to eat, stay and play along this beautiful stretch of water.   

Totnes is a wonderful town which makes a great base for your River Dart exploration towards Dartmouth. It’s a bustling town with a thriving market, a great independent shopping and café scene and boasts an impressive motte and bailey castle.   

If you’re looking for a self-catered accommodation in Totnes , we’d recommend taking a look at our wonderful agencies who offer a wide variety of abodes, from cosy, humble cottages to large, luxurious riverside homes. Take a look at Classic Cottages , Your Devon Escape or Toad Hall Cottages to find your dream retreat. If you own a boat, you could also take advantage of mooring on the Totnes Visitor Berth for direct access to all that the river has to offer.   

Activity-wise, Totnes has a lot to offer. Totnes Castle towers high above the town at the top of the high-street and provides glorious panoramic views of the River Dart and across to Dartmoor. Built over 900 years ago during the Norman Conquest, it’s now owned by English Heritage so you can enjoy an intimate experience inside the castle. As well as this, you can walk around the outside walls to view the beautiful flora that surrounds it, and it makes a great place for a family picnic in the warmer months! Another highlight of Totnes is Dartington Hall , just outside the town. Walk here via the River Dart and explore the historic and enchanting estate . The surrounding gardens and woodlands provide a tranquil escape with meandering paths and picturesque ponds. Visit at the right time and you’ll able be able to take part in their numerous events, from film screenings to workshops and seminars.     

Ashprington and Tuckenhay  

A walk south of Totnes along the River Dart you’ll come across Ashprington, a quaint village and parish, which encompasses Sharpham, Tuckenhay, Bow and Painsford. In many ways, it’s your typical English village, boasting a pub, a hotel and plenty of surrounding countryside, but it’s also home to Sharpham Cheese, a wonderful, artisanal cheese-maker, and Sharpham House, a Georgian house owned by Sharpham Trust making this area particularly distinctive.     

Tuckenhay is nestled on the Bow Creek, an estuary which flows into the Dart. It’s a pretty little hamlet which once was a paper mill village, making it exceptionally characterful. This mill has now been converted into lodging but still offers a glimpse into its industrial past.   

If you want accommodation close to Totnes, but away from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant town, this area is ideal. Check out Dart Valley Cottages who have a wide selection of rented accommodation along the Dart. And if you want a village retreat with your four-legged friend, check out Dog Friendly Cottages !    

Staying in this area you’ll find there’s an abundance of footpaths and trails to explore. Take the Dart Valley Trail, a long-distance route which follows the river from Totnes to Dartmouth along the western side of the river. If you bring your bike you can also cycle this route or come equipped with your paddleboard along to explore it from the water.     

Stoke Gabriel  

Much like Ashprington, Stoke Gabriel is also a village and a Parish, however it sits on the other side of the river, and includes the villages of Aish, Sandridge and Waddeton. It’s a popular tourist destination for nature lovers in the South Hams due to its riverside location and luscious surrounding countryside; a haven for wildlife. Stoke Gabriel truly is a place to take a step back from stresses of everyday life and appreciate the little things. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay which allows you to break away from your daily routine, check out Holidaycottages.co.uk .   

One highlight of the village is its mill pond which feeds into the tidal estuary, it’s a great spot for crabbing, fishing, feeding the ducks, and makes a great entry point for exploring the river via kayak or paddleboard.  

Interestingly, because of its location, Stoke Gabriel is a great spot for grape-growing. Situated in a sheltered valley at Lower Well Farm on the banks of the river, Sandridge Barton have taken advantage of this environment to develop a beautiful vineyard to create equally as beautiful wines. With a visitor centre and shop on-site, they offer guided and self-guided tours and tastings, which we’d recommend to anyone visiting any part of the River Dart. They also have an excellent restaurant, Circa , uniquely located in an old stone milking parlour, and offer eco-conscious dining with fresh and seasonal ingredients.   

Dittisham  

Venturing back over to the opposite side of the Dart, Dittisham is perhaps one of the most attractive villages you might come across in the region. This riverside settlement is the perfect place for a relaxing break and being just two miles upstream of Dartmouth, it’s a great base if you want to venture into the town, taking just 30 minutes via the ferry.   

For a small village, there’s plenty of great things to do. For outdoor enthusiasts, walks are ample here. Hike along the river towards the Raleigh Estate and Old Mill Creek on the way to Dartmouth. Alternatively, hire a motorboat, kayak or SUP from the pontoon to explore the river’s picturesque creeks and hidden beaches. One of the focal points of Dittisham is its bright pink waterside pub, which many locals enjoy a pint or two in. It’s a great spot for adults to enjoy a drink in the sun whilst their little ones partake in a spot of crabbing off the pontoon. There’s also a great recreational ground call The Ham, a large green space situated by the river, surrounded by trees and a great playpark for children. It also makes the perfect place for a picnic or family BBQ.   

  Accommodation in Dittisham is abundant. Opt for a unique family-sized treehouse or a romantic shepherd hut stay with Dittisham Hideawa y . Equally, you can find a stunning spacious adobe, or charming cottage for two with Coast & Country Cottages or Helpful Holidays .   

Hop on the ferry Greenway Ferry from Dittisham and you’ll find yourself in Galmpton, home to the Greenway Estate which was once owned by a world-famous author. This wonderful village that sits on the Dart is uniquely part of two Devon boroughs – South Hams and Torbay.   

The area has a long and interesting history; the ancient manor of Galmpton was first recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Galmentona’, with the name deriving from the Saxon ‘Gafolsman’, meaning a community of rent-paying peasants. After the Norman Conquest, Ralph de Feugeres became Lord of the Manor of Galmpton and it remained a manorial holding well into the Victorian era. Built in 1861, running through the village and along the creek is the historic Dartmouth and Torbay Railway line, but more on this later!   

One of the highlights of Galmpton is Greenway House , which was once owned by Agatha Christie as a holiday home. Now the site is a visitor attraction, owned by the National Trust, with many of its original features remaining, allowing you to imagine how Agatha and her family would spend their summers relaxing by the river, playing croquet in the gardens or imagining her next book in the library. A visit to Greenway isn’t complete without seeing the Boathouse, the scene of the crime in ‘ Dead Man’s Folly ’!  

If Galmpton seems like your type of destination, opt for a stay with River Dart Hideaway who offer well-appointed accommodation with spectacular riverside views. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer the perfect space to watch the sunrise and set over the river and its convenient location is perfect for further exploration of the River Dart and the English Riviera coastline.     

Kingswear  

Situated just 5-miles from Galmpton is Kingswear , a village and parish on the eastern bank of the River Dart estuary and opposite Dartmouth. Kingswear is a characterful village with some of the best views of the River Dart and Dartmouth. The village is home to Kingswear Castle, an old artillery fort which previously offered protection, alongside Dartmouth Castle, to the harbour.   

Noted as being the railhead for Dartmouth, Kingswear is home to the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company station, whereby the Dartmouth and Torbay Railway line extends to, and became part of the Great Western Railway in 1876. These days the line is used as an attraction, transporting visitors to and from Paignton on a heritage steam railway along the River Dart.   

  There are an abundance of great walks in Kingswear . Take the South West Cost Path to Brownstone Battery, which passes the iconic Daymark, a navigational point which can be seen from across Start Bay. Or visit Coleton Fishacre , a beautiful Arts and Craft-style house, once owned by the D’Oyly family in the 1920s. From here you can walk along the coast path back to Kingswear or to Mansands beach, a lovely secluded cove between Kingswear and Brixham .   

  Luxury Coastal have some fantastic properties in Kingswear and Dartmouth if you’re looking for an opulent abode with unbeatable views of Dartmouth and just a stone’s throw from the river. If you’re looking for somewhere a bit more rural and off the beaten track, Nethway Farm Holiday Cottages offer five self-catered cottages, converted from old farm buildings. With an indoor pool, games room, animal feeding and over 35 acres to explore, it’s great for a family getaway.    

  Dartmouth  

And finally, we get to Dartmouth! Set on the western bank on the River Dart estuary and facing out to sea, Dartmouth is a maritime town with a long and fascinating history , in which you can find out more about here , but it’s key features are certainly the area’s natural beauty and exciting attractions.   

For those with a penchant for history, pay a visit to Dartmouth Castle , an impressive fortress, built over 600 years ago to guard the Dart Estuary. The seaside castle has plenty for explorers – young and old, such as an atmospheric Gun Tower, winding passages and a climb to the top of the battlements. En-route to the castle, why not stop at Bayards Cove Fort , which was the second line of defence for the harbour and contains the heavy cannons once used to guard the waters in Tudor times.   

For lovers of the water, take to the river via kayak with Sea Kayak Devon who are based in Coronation Park, and offer guided trips and expeditions of the surrounding water; allowing you to explore secret coves and get up close to some amazing wildlife. For the landlubbers, explore the town via the Dartmouth Town Trail , take a stroll down to the beaches of Castle Cove and Sugary Cove , or enjoy some retail therapy along the high street and Old Market Square – top tip, stop at Jenny Koo’s in the market for some great Asian-inspired food!  

As you’d expect, accommodation in Dartmouth is bountiful, whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat for two, a dog friendly getaway or somewhere big for the whole family to stay in. Ways Away Holiday are a family-run business who specialise in accommodation specifically in Dartmouth, all with dedicated parking spaces which can be hard to come by in the town during peak times! Meanwhile Marsdens Devon Cottages and Sykes Holiday Cottages both have a large portfolio of abodes across Devon and the South West. If you want a quaint B&B, check out Capritia Guest House , a family run guesthouse, just a three minute walk to the waterfront and town centre.     

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to breakfast, lunch and dinner in Dartmouth with a fantastic array of cafés, restaurants and pubs. If you want fine dining, head to The Angel – Taste of Devon , a fab Michelin Guide restaurant in the heart of the town. For something a bit more relaxed, but still high-end, the Embankment Bistro and Kendricks are great choices with excellent seafood on offer. If traditional pub-grub is more your vibe, there’s plenty of great pubs in the town, such as the Dartmouth Arms and Bayards Cove Inn . When it comes to cafés, Café Alf Resco is pretty renowned for its breakfasts, meanwhile Bespoke serve great local coffee and some tasty sweet treats.   

And there we have it, a complete round up of all the top places to stay, eat and play along the River Dart! For more information about discovering the Dart click here. And, don’t forget to check out our fantastic map below! 

Share your experiences of the River Dart with us by tagging @DiscoverDartmouth in your posts on Facebook , X (Twitter) and Instagram , or by using the hashtag #DiscoverTheDart .  

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“What a brilliant experience! We were a group ranging in age from 7-70 plus a dog and everyone had a great day.”

“The trip was really fantastic...pitched perfectly for both adults and kids. It was great value for money too.”

“It was so lovely to get away from it all and enjoy the peace of the river and the beautiful countryside and wildlife.”

Canoe Adventures - Explore the Stunning River Dart in BIG Canoes

Explore South Devon's stunning River Dart estuary between the historic towns of Totnes and Dartmouth - setting off from Tuckenhay or Stoke Gabriel with pubs, secret places, campfires, shipwrecks, wildlife and stories along the way.

Get a group together to hire your own canoe, or multiple canoes, for your own river adventure. You could include a BBQ or pub stops. (Minimum 6 people).  Ideal for family reunions, birthday parties, celebrations, stag and hen parties, scouts, schools trips, team building and away-days. 

Not enough people to hire a whole canoe?  (Fewer than 6 people) Join one of our scheduled trips that you can book 'By-the-Seat' - Mainly 'All Aboard Adventures' during the holidays and half terms, and 'Pub to Pub' evening paddles throughout the year.  

Booking is essential as departure times vary daily with the tide.      We will do our best to reply to enquires as soon as possible, but please note we are a small company and often we are all out on the River at the same time so it might not be straight away.  Thank you for your understanding. If it is urgent, please send us a Text. 07706 343 744.

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Dartmouth River Cruise (Lower Dart)

A circular cruise from Dartmouth sailing the lower part of the River Dart viewing the castles at the estuary, Britannia Royal Naval College and towards Agatha Christie's Greenway Estate.

Cruises operate daily at 11:15, 12:30, 13:45 and 15:30 IMPORTANT NOTE : KC does not operate on all services. If booking using the links below please understand that the trip is not guaranteed to be on the paddlesteamer. In 2023, KC will operate from June to September only. Please call on the day of travel to check which vessel is operating the service.

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From Late June to September in 2022, this cruise is predominantly on the historic paddle steamer "Kingswear Castle". The Kingswear Castle is the last remaining coal-fired paddle steamer in the UK. She was built in 1924 at Philip & Son of Dartmouth and has been lovingly restored to her former glory, beautifully reflecting the style and craftsmanship of a bygone era. In addition to scheduled services on the river Dart, she offers the most unique cruise and charter experience in the whole of the UK.

A Typical Day's Itinerary

• Cruise from Dartmouth - 55 minute cruise to Dartmouth
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Book your Dartmouth River Cruise (Lower Dart) tickets now - Buy Tickets

Take a wonderful circular boat trip (starts in and returns to Dartmouth) viewing Bayards Cove, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dittisham Village, Sir Walter Raleigh's Boathouse, Greenway Quay and The Estate of the late Dame Agatha Christie. A lovely addition to your day out in Devon. Full, informative (and usually amusing!) commentary is provided. This is a circular trip that starts and finishes in Dartmouth.

This cruise departs daily at 11:15, 12:30, 13:45 and 15:30. Duration approximately 1hr.

Please note: the paddlesteamer Kingswear Castle season predominantly runs from the beginning of May to September.

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• Sights and smells - Cannot beat the smell and sound of a steam locomotive, a very scenic ride firstly along the beach, then along the river Dart. A couple of hours in Dartmouth then all aboard for trip back.
• Great little railway - You’re given allocated seats with your family bubble and it's all very secure. The carriages have had Perspex screens installed. All staff were friendly and helpful. We got some lovely pictures from the train.
• At last! - Went by steam train and ferry to Dartmouth on the last day of our holiday. Beautiful. Lovely journey on the steam train and the ferry was also a very pleasant trip. Spent a couple of hours in Dartmouth before repeating the journey. So glad I have managed to do it at last!

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Excellent River Trip on the Explorer... - Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Devon    
• Dartmouth    
• Dartmouth - Things to Do    
• Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat

On a visit from Scotland we Bought the round robin ticket for 3 adults cost £101 in total. Got the... read more

Perfect day Staff so friendly and helpful Allocated seats so not cramped together Clean and... read more

Excellent River Trip on the Explorer from Totnes to Dartmouth

We just went from Totnes to Dartmouth then got the bus back. You can choose whether you do the round Robin or just one way. We had a lovely trip, the boat is spacious and comfortable and there is a bar that sells tea and coffee and snacks. The commentary was excellent, informative and amusing, but not constant so we had time to talk to each other. We were able to walk about and look around at the views. Ladies and Gents were clean. We would love to do the full round Robin some time.

We chose the steam train return with the return ferry to Dartmouth. We found this excellent value for money. The steam train brought back memories of holidays gone by to Cornwall by steam trains. Sorry diesel just does not compare. A short journey on the ferry to Dartmouth and plenty of time to look around this lovely town. They have various boat trips on offer or do what we did, just chill out. We really recommend this trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway to every one.

Lovely scenic ride on a steam train along the coast and the river. On arrival we caught the foot ferry over to Dartmouth where we took an hour long river trip, The boat trip was really enjoyable and the crew were friendly and the commentary had humour included. We passed Greenways - the home of Agatha Christie and saw some seals. Once back on land we explored Dartmouth before returning back on the train

A really enjoyable boat trip down the River Dart (c. 1hr 40mins) with an humorous commentary from 'The Captain'; personal time in Dartmouth (c. 1hr 30mins); ferry across the Dart to Kingswear (c. 10mins); a steam train journey to Paignton (c. 40mins); personal time in Paignton (c. 1hr 30mins); an open-top bus ride back to Totnes (c. 30 mins); a perfect day out all on one ticket.

We have travelled on the Round Robin from Dartmouth twice now and it's just great. You can spend a few hours in Totnes and give Paignton a body swerve. The river trip is brilliant and commentary spot on. Kids will find the whole trip boring but for us old gits it was great. Give yourself about 3 hours in Totnes, you will fill your time with ease. The train ride back to Kingswear is very good, takes you back. We take the dog and we think she enjoys the trip, maybe.

We went on the Steam train and river crossing as part of our Shearings coach holiday. It's a lovely old steam train and a very picturesque ride. It was a bit of a chilly day so it's lucky that the river crossing is very short.

River Cruises

River Cruises are one of the best ways to enjoy the stunning scenery of the River Dart

River & Harbour Cruises:

Take a wonderful circular boat trip (starts in and returns to Dartmouth) viewing Bayards Cove , Kingswear and Dartmouth Castles, Britannia Royal Naval College , Dittisham village, Sir Walter Raleigh’s Boathouse, Greenway Quay and​ the estate​ of the late Dame Agatha Christie. A lovely addition to your day out in Devon. Full, informative (and usually amusing!) commentary is provided. This is a circular trip that starts and finishes in Dartmouth. This cruise departs daily at 11:00, 12:00, 12:45, 13:30, 14:15 & 15:15. Tickets may be​ purchased at the kiosks close to the entrance to the town pontoon.

Rail & River Cruises:

Why not enjoy a full day excursion combining a steam train ride and a river cruise.

Travel on the steam railway from Paignton to Kingswear, then cross the river Dart on our foot passenger ferry to Dartmouth, where you board one of ​the​ boats for a circular ​river cruise (approximately 1 hour duration) around the river and estuary. The cruise takes you to the mouth of the river passing Kingswear & Dartmouth Castles, Dittisham village, Britannia Royal Naval College and Greenway House – home to the late Dame Agatha Christie.

Tell the children to keep their eyes peeled for the varied wildlife that can be seen – Dolphins, Seals, Herons, Egrets, Buzzards and​ ​Kingfishers​​ if you’re quick enough! Pick up a colouring in sheet in ​the visitor centre ​at Kingswear ​railway​ station. Why not get the children to colour in the wildlife they spot.

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River Dart cruise from Totnes to... - Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Devon    
• Dartmouth    
• Dartmouth - Things to Do    
• Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat

On a visit from Scotland we Bought the round robin ticket for 3 adults cost £101 in total. Got the... read more

Perfect day Staff so friendly and helpful Allocated seats so not cramped together Clean and... read more

River Dart cruise from Totnes to Dartmouth and return

From Totnes to Dartmouth, all aboard for a trip that was so very enjoyable, it was a lovely day which certainly made the sights look their best i'm sure but the trip was 90 minutes of utter relaxation taking photos and video while listening to Captain Ed over the speaker system, his commentary was full of interesting facts from departure to arrival and also his witticism and anecdotal input which put many a smile onto passengers faces. We saw Kingfishers (pre-warned) and Seals during the trip besides many other waders (Herons, Egrets) and birds of pray (Buzzard, Osprey) all identified by the ever informative Captain Ed. We were then able to spend 3 hours in Dartmouth prior to the return trip which was every bit as enjoyable as the earlier down river trip, Captain Ed once again keeping passengers informed at each and every note worthy point.

🚂 my perception was that the company who run this business put profit above customer experience. Nearly every carriage was reserved by various holiday companies and very few were used whilst the paying customer on the day was squashed into one carriage right at the far end. The 🚤 journey was too slow, packed like sardines. My friend and I were bored after 45 minutes. 🚌 journey was a real let down. It was the regular service bus back to Paignton. It would be great if they used a dedicated bus that was open too in good weather. Wouldn’t do it again and wouldn’t recommend it.

We were blessed with the weather, had a wonderful 1st on the steam train my 18th month old grandson loved it, the short ferry across to Dartmouth was lovely, we wandered around the streets and had a lovely cream tea, on the way back we paid the extra £2.50 per person to sit on the observation carriage, worth the extra charge, I have also been on the train etc in the rain , enjoyed it as much then

Took daughter who expected to be bored but thoroughly enjoyed humorous narrative. Nice way to spend an hour looking at Dartmouth from the river. Saw a seal and mute swan with 10 cygnets. Despite being the youngest on the boat, we enjoyed it. Only downside was miserable woman selling us the tickets. She seemed more friendly to people behind so assumed it was a non white issue. Crew on board very pleasant.

Was a family outing (baby, dogs, me and wife). Dogs go on for £2 each, although £18+ seemed like alot at first it's quite a nice trip. Lovely views, people waving at you that are train spotting etc. Really enjoyed it, we just stayed on at all stops till our original boarding station but the conductors and the overall experience was brilliant.

Really enjoyed an hour and a half river cruise on the Steam Paddle Steamer Kingswear Castle yesterday 16/09/2019. For anyone interested in historic transport, the paddle steamer would be of great interest, even if you are not it's a great way to see part of the River Dart Estuary. Drinks and light snack are avaialble on board. The gentleman who provided the commentary was informative and amusing - without being over bearing! Even though this excursion costs slightly more than the others available, it is worth it because you are not as crammed in (as it would appear) on the more modern boats offering cruises; and there are fewer passengers on board - which, in my opinion, makes a better trip! Even though the weather was a little overcast, it was a very enjoyable trip!

Steamer Quay Totnes

Steamer Quay Totnes is based in Totnes, Devon, and offers a professional and friendly team to help you have a great time and enjoy the experiences available.

At Steamer Quay Totnes you will find all of the below activities, facilities, and important information.

Activities at Steamer Quay Totnes include:

We have also included their opening times and contact details. If you have any questions, you can contact the venue directly.

Activities available in this location

Got Questions? Check out our FAQs!

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CONTACT &

Cruise the enchanting River Dart aboard the classic launch “Elberry” and enjoy locally sourced food and fine wine. Whether you want an intimate romantic cruise or to share the experience with family and friends you can savour the time aboard in comfort surrounded by the beautiful oak fringed river scenery and leave any cares behind you. The Banquet Boat “Elberry” makes elegant and special transport to a wedding or party along the River Dart.

Along with the glorious scenery, tasty food handmade with care is at the heart of what we do. Aboard our floating banquet boat we offer a range of set menus celebrating local produce and delicacies - from the classic Westcountry Cream Tea to the wealth of the ocean with our Devon’s Finest Seafood option. Or if you have something special in mind we pride ourselves in offering a personal service and want your day to be tailored especially to your needs, so please feel free to call and discuss your requirements. With bespoke menus, dietary requirements, themed children’s parties or a particular destination along the river, The Banquet Boat will make your journey with us truly special! 

We can also offer a Skippered Boat Charter service with our qualified skipper to explore the Dart or taxi you to a specific riverside location. The perfect transport for getting the bride to the church on time! Just £80 per hour.

TESTIMONIALS

Fabulous afternoon on the river - a fantastic trip up the river and amazing food - not to be missed!!