The Season Doesn't Stop When the Summer Ends

Q: Are the boat trips suitable for people who get sea sick?

Yes. River Exe cruises sail entirely on calm, sheltered inland waters protected from open sea swells, offering minimal motion.

Q: Does Stuart Line Cruises sail in the autumn and winter?

Stuart Line Cruises operates 365 days a year with heated, enclosed lower decks, running winter birdwatching cruises and festive specials.

Q: Are the vessels wheelchair accessible and where can I park?

Manual wheelchairs can be accommodated on most cruises, but passengers must contact Stuart Line Cruises prior to booking. Boarding involves steps, so staff will assess whether the chair user can manage steps aided or unaided. Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters cannot be accommodated. Parking is available at Exmouth Pierhead Car Park (EX8 1DU).

Q: Are dogs allowed on board Stuart Line Cruises?

Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads travel free on all standard river and coastal sightseeing sailings, with full details on our dog-friendly guide.

Q: Where do Stuart Line Cruises depart from?

Main departures operate from Exmouth Marina (EX8 1FE). Historic canal cruises operate between Exmouth and Exeter Quay / Canal Basin, with seasonal departures from Topsham Quay, Sidmouth, and Dawlish Warren.

September brings calmer waters and gentle coastal breezes to the estuary. Take in the sweeping views from our open top deck or unwind in our sheltered saloons, with scenic river and coastal cruises running all month long.

View Timetable

Special Event Highlights

Explore a diverse calendar of special events from a fresh perspective on the water. We host unique experiences for all ages and interests - from front-row seats at regional Airshows to our social themed cruises and festive Sail with Santa trips. These popular departures offer an unforgettable way to discover unobstructed views of the coast and estuary.

View full special event timetable

Experience our award-winning, family-run boat trips, cruising in Exmouth since 1968. Explore the calm, sheltered waters of the River Exe all year round, or join us during the summer season for breathtaking coastal cruises along the South Devon & UNESCO Jurassic Coasts. We have a cruise for every age and interest!

Discover unforgettable experiences on the water with Stuart Line Cruises, a top choice for things to do in Devon and the premier tourist attraction in Exmouth! Since 1968, our family-run business has offered a wide variety of boat trips year-round, exploring the tranquil River Exe and the breathtaking South Devon & UNESCO Jurassic Coast. We are the perfect choice for memorable, family days out, group outings and organised tours.

Whether you're searching for things to do in Exmouth that are dog-friendly or accessible, or just planning for rainy day activities or glorious sunshine adventures, we have the perfect cruise for you. Our sailings encompass Exeter, Exmouth, Dawlish, Topsham, Torquay, Brixham, and Sidmouth, featuring scenic sightseeing tours, exciting day trips, lively party nights, and special events to suit every interest. Our vessels can comfortably accommodate both small and large groups, making us ideal for community groups and coach tours alike.

Operating throughout the year with our two distinctive, brightly coloured boats, we've become an integral part of the stunning local scenery. We pride ourselves on our value for money trips and the wide variety of trips we offer, meaning there is something for everyone!

What people love about us

Stuart Line Cruises

4.8

Based on 596 reviews

review us on

George H.

2 days ago

Great staff and an enjoyable trip

4 days ago

What an amazing afternoon. We booked a coastal cruise but due to the choppy sea we went a little way then turned back and cruised up the river Exe instead. Captain Will’s knowledge and commentary during the cruise was excellent and the team were all helpful and polite. We were served drinks and snacks whilst in our seats and prices for these were value for money. The weather only an hour before looked as though we’d be sitting inside but turned out a sunny and warm afternoon so everyone sat on the top deck. What a great way to be informed and see places that we could visit whilst on our holiday here. This trip cost us £12:50 each and was well worth every penny. Easy process on arrival before boarding. We made sure we arrived a few hours before to get a parking space, plenty to see and do so no hanging around. Thank you Stuart Line Cruises.

vanessa L.

5 days ago

We went on two cruises here during our holiday in Devon. One along the Jurassic Coast and one to Torquay. We enjoyed the views on both trips, and the commentary provided along the way was very informative. The staff were very friendly and helpful throughout the journey. These were enjoyable trips at a very reasonable price. If you arrive reasonably on time, you can park behind their office for a few pounds.

Imogen A.

2 weeks ago

Really lovely tour up and down the River Exe. The crew were super friendly, gentle commentary of the local area and fishing information. Tea and prosecco on board! Took me and and my mum for her birthday and we had a really good time

Sarah K.

2 weeks ago

I booked the Tudor Rose for a surprise party for my Mum's 80th, and it was absolutely perfect! The communication with Amanda was brilliant throughout; she was quick to respond to enquiries and on hand to help me create the perfect cruise with timings, a cream team, drinks and the band. On the evening, everything ran smoothly and to plan. Two weeks later, everyone is still talking about what a brilliant night they had, and I now have legendary status within the family and Mum's friendship group. Thanks for making me look so good, Stuart Line Cruises! 😉

Chris S.

2 weeks ago

Brilliant day very well run company well done Daniel!

Pam S.

3 weeks ago

Always enjoy

Tony S

3 weeks ago

Had an awesome night on the pride of Exmouth last night👌 Up the estuary as far as the countess weir bridge the crew were very attentive and nothing seemed too much trouble. Thank you everyone🙏.. even the duck enjoyed it!😂

Thrive Architects South W.

3 weeks ago

We recently booked the Tudor Rose for a three hour charter. We booked this for a client event where we had BBQ and a Jazz Trio. The evening was a huge success and enjoyed by all who attended. The team at Stuart Line Cruises were fantastic and helpful from the get go. Would definitely recommend.

Dhimant

4 weeks ago

A exceptional boat ride to see the Jurassic Coast line in Devon. Great value for money. A clear historical explanation of the coastline and how the cliffs were formed. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff

Alison C

1 month ago

A really enjoyable River Exe cruise! The queuing system was very well organised, and the commentary was really interesting. We loved that drinks were served at our seats, so there was no need to leave our places. Seeing Neil the seal was an added bonus! A very gentle ride so ideal for anyone who is nervous on boats We also noticed how well the boat was cleaned between excursions, which was great to see. A lovely way to spend some time on the water and definitely worth doing.

dee W.

2 months ago

We had a lovely day and time. I booked this as a relaxing day from our adult kids. The cruises was lovely and relaxing. You can get tea, coffee and beer etc on the boat and it is a good price, the staff are friendly and welcoming, if you want a day out try this. Get there early if you want the top of the boat

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Explore Devon by Water

Cruising Devon’s River Exe & Jurassic Coast

All-weather scenic excursions departing from Exmouth Marina, Topsham, Dawlish and Exeter Quay.

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Sailing All Year

Operating calm River Exe sailings 365 days a year with heated indoor decks and licensed bars.

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Calm & Sheltered

Protected river waters ensure a smooth, stable journey - ideal for anyone nervous of motion.

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UNESCO Coastline

Experience millions of years of earth history on our seasonal summer Jurassic Coast sea cruises.

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Accessibility & Pets

Manual wheelchairs welcome (please call ahead). Dogs sail free on river and coastal trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the boat trips suitable for people who get sea sick?+

Yes. Our River Exe cruises sail entirely along sheltered inland estuary waters protected from open sea swells, making them virtually motion-free and perfect for anyone prone to seasickness. While coastal sailings venture out to sea, our river trips remain calm and tranquil rain or shine.

Does Stuart Line Cruises sail in the autumn and winter?+

Stuart Line Cruises sails all year round. Our passenger vessels feature fully enclosed, heated lower decks with hot drinks, snacks, and a licensed bar. Seasonal winter highlights include our renowned Guided Bird Watching Cruises and festive Sail with Santa trips.

Are the vessels wheelchair accessible and where can I park?+

We can accommodate manual wheelchairs on most scheduled sailings, but you must contact our team before booking on 01395 222144. Boarding involves steps depending on the tide and vessel; we will discuss whether the wheelchair user can manage steps either aided or unaided to ensure a safe boarding experience. Please note that we cannot accommodate electric wheelchairs or heavy mobility scooters on board. The nearest pay-and-display parking is a 2-minute walk away at Exmouth Pierhead Car Park (EX8 1DU).

Are dogs allowed on board Stuart Line Cruises?+

Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome free of charge on all our scheduled River Exe and Coastal cruises. Read more on our dedicated dog-friendly boat trips guide. Only select special dining or evening entertainment events have restrictions.

Where do Stuart Line Cruises depart from?+

Most scheduled cruises depart directly from Exmouth Marina (EX8 1FE). We also operate departures between Exeter Canal Basin / Exeter Quay and Exmouth for our historic Exeter Canal Cruises, alongside seasonal departures from Topsham Quay, Sidmouth seafront, and Dawlish Warren.