Salcombe has a long tradition of building wooden vessels. From the Nineteenth Century ‘fruit schooners’ that raced to the Azores, bringing back fresh fruit for the London market, to the world-famous ‘Salcombe Yawls’, which are still a vibrant racing fleet in Salcombe today. This harbour and estuary are both an essential natural environment and a place for leisure, appreciation and enjoyment.
There are plenty of opportunities to learn more about our maritime history at the Salcombe Maritime Museum. Watch the Salcombe Yawls race throughout the season or experience a trip on the estuary in a classic Salcombe wooden vessel. Ask our helpful reception team for more information.
For those interested in purchasing a classic vessel, please speak to Chris Turns, at Fine and Classic.
On the Water
Salcombe Estuary
When surrounded by one of the UK’s most dramatic coastlines, it would be a shame not to make the most of the setting and dive into the range of watersport activities available from our doorstep. Many of the activities listed below require advance bookings, so please contact reception prior to arrival for more information.
The Salcombe Yawl boat developed from deep knowledge and experience of these waters. From a working fishing vessel background, the highly competitive racing of these beautiful and powerful sailing vessels evolved.
From luxury yachts, traditional Brixham sailing trawlers, racing Salcombe Yawls, dinghy sailing and racing to quiet cruising, Salcombe in summer is a buzz with sailing activity. Supported by sailmakers, marine engineers, chandlery and boat brokerage, Salcombe remains a centre of sailing excellence and expertise.
Salcombe Yacht Club
Salcombe Dinghy Sailing
Salcombe Yawl Owners Association
Island Cruising Club
During summer and winter storms (when the conditions are safe enough), highly experienced surfers can be seen across from the hotel, surfing on the rolling swells as they enter the harbour mouth, rolling over the tide.
A variety of surfing beaches and surfing conditions can be found within a few miles of South Sands, including the nationally famous surf beach at Bantham. From beginner’s schools to challenges for experienced surfers, there is much to explore.
Bantham Surfing Academy
CHARTER BOATS AND POWERBOATS HIRE, TRIPS AND RIDES IN SALCOMBE.
Sea-N-Shore has an unrivalled passion for providing the best water-based leisure training in and around Salcombe and the South Coast of Devon.
They are a highly experienced and qualified team who offer a one-stop shop for boating, excitement and hospitality. Whilst safety is our priority, that ensured, NOTHING stops the fun! Whether you are looking to hire an exciting powerboat ride or arrange a relaxing charter boat trip from Salcombe, the team at Sea-N-Shore is on hand to help you plan the perfect day on the water.
The South Devon coastline, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers a wide variety of landscapes to discover, including sheltered coves and rugged headlands. From experienced kayakers ready to explore with their own equipment to those looking to try something new, this is a great opportunity to explore our environment.
Explore Salcombe’s beautiful marine environment on a stand up paddle board. From experienced boarders to those wishing to try something new, Salcombe Harbour and Kingsbridge Estuary offer a variety of creeks and bays to discover in a safe environment.