Seal Island and Godrevy Lighthouse Boat Trip
Departing from the historic St Ives Harbour, the Seal Island and Godrevy Lighthouse Boat Trip is an essential experience for wildlife lovers and photography enthusiasts.
These excursions offer a unique perspective of Cornwall’s rugged North Coast, taking you approximately 3.5 miles west to the rocky islets known as the Carracks (Seal Island) or east across the bay to the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse.
Whether you are searching for the playful Atlantic grey seal colony or hoping for a chance encounter with a pod of dolphins, these trips immerse you in the natural beauty of one of the world’s most beautiful bays.
The Experience
Most boat trips from St Ives last approximately one hour, providing a focused and family-friendly introduction to the local marine environment.
- Seal Island: Located towards Zennor, this rocky outcrop is a sanctuary for a resident colony of Atlantic grey seals. Boats typically linger for about 15 minutes, allowing guests to watch the seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the kelp forests.
- Godrevy Lighthouse: Perched on a small island at the eastern end of the bay, this 26-metre-tall tower has guarded the Stones reef since 1859. The area is steeped in maritime history and was the inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s famous novel, To the Lighthouse.
- Marine Wildlife: Beyond seals, the bay is a haven for common and bottlenose dolphins, sunfish, and a vast array of seabirds, including razorbills, guillemots, and occasionally puffins.
- Coastal Landmarks: Enjoy unparalleled views of St Ives landmarks, including Smeaton’s Pier, the Tate Gallery, Porthmeor Beach, and the golden sands of Carbis Bay and Hayle.
The Essentials
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- Meeting Point: Most trips depart from St Ives Harbour. Check-in is typically required 30 minutes before departure at specific booths along the harbour front or on Smeaton’s Pier.
- Duration: Standard wildlife cruises are 1 hour. Extended “Ultimate Sea Safaris” (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours) are often available for those wanting to venture further down the coast.
- Dog-Friendly: Many operators are dog-friendly and allow well-behaved canine companions on board for free (though some may require them to be carried on the pier).
- What to Bring: It can be significantly cooler on the water; layers, a waterproof jacket, and binoculars are highly recommended.
Accessibility
Accessibility within St Ives Harbour is limited due to its historic and tidal nature. Boarding the boats typically involves navigating a number of stone steps on the quay or pier. Depending on the tide, passengers may occasionally need to transfer via a smaller tender boat or walk across sand. Most operators require passengers to be able to move up and down at least three steps independently. Wheelchair access is generally not available on standard vessels. Guests with mobility concerns are strongly encouraged to contact the specific boat operator in advance to discuss the best time of tide for easier boarding.