Get wet and wild in Dartmouth!

With the River Dart and the South Devon coastline on your doorstep, Dartmouth is the perfect place to base yourself if you love the thrill of being in, on or at one with the water.

The best way to appreciate Dartmouth and South Devon is definitely by boat – so grab a lifejacket and explore Dartmouth’s watersports culture to its fullest.

Sailing in Dartmouth

Dartmouth is renowned as a sailing port – boats of all sizes await in its waters – from fishing boats to luxury yachts. You can also hire boats in Dartmouth for a family or for a group – and explore the coastline at your own leisure.

But if you want to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving the boat, there are boat trips aplenty on offer, taking you out to sea, or up the river – the choice is yours.

On the Water

Surfing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, coasteering, you name it, you can do it in Dartmouth. The River Dart is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely paddle, with the stunning scenery, calm waters and inspiring wildlife.

There are several places to hire kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, or if you bring your own with you there are many spots along the river to launch.

From Dartmouth you can paddle up to Totnes, stopping at the beautiful villages of Dittisham, Stoke Gabriel, Galmpton and Tuckenhay for some lunch or just a drink, the choice is yours!

Wild Swimming

Wild swimming is growing in popularity, and Dartmouth has some of the most beautiful and safe natural stretches of water in which to do it. South Devon can’t be beaten for its variety of stunning swim spots, from the small coves and caves around the Dartmouth coast, to the crystal clear pools of the River Dart, Dartmouth is the ideal place to try Wild Swimming.

Whether you’re looking to plan a water sports break in Dartmouth or just try a new skill for the day you’ll find a whole host of pursuits that you can get stuck into with family or friends.