Falmouth Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Tour

This classic Cornish tour is perfect for cruise ship guests who want to make the most of their shore time in Falmouth, without rushing off to the far flung corners of Cornwall. We’ll show you the real Cornwall — a mix of iconic landmarks and a few hidden gems — all close to home around Falmouth, Truro, and St Agnes. It’s a full, but easygoing day out, designed to let you see more and enjoy it properly.

Tour Highlights

Truro Cathedral towers over surrounding buildings by river.

Truro Cathedral

An impressive Gothic Revival masterpiece with soaring spires, intricate stonework, and a peaceful interior perfect for reflection.

Historic Cornish engine house overlooking coastal beachscape.

Wheal Coates

A dramatic clifftop tin mine, perched high above the Atlantic and one of Cornwall’s most iconic mining heritage landmarks.

Historic building with grand columns and steps.

Trelissick House

A National Trust estate with beautiful gardens, woodland walks, and sweeping views across the Fal Estuary.

pandora inn

The Pandora Inn

A historic thatched riverside inn on Restronguet Creek, the perfect stop for a Cornish Cream Tea.

Sheila T.
2 months ago
There are not enough positive words to express how wonderful my experience with Cornwall Tours was! Nick did such an excellent job in “understanding the assignment” in taking us to Poldark sites. Breathtaking scenery. He was so knowledgeable and entertaining and provided such comfortable transportation with refreshments to boot. I recommend Cornwall Tours 1000%!
Kylie G
3 months ago
The six of us really enjoyed our private tour with Nick of Cornwall Tours. He was on time and very informative everywhere we went. We could tell he was concerned if we were having a good time and seeing what we wanted to see. He suggested substitute places for the ones he felt were not as good as what we thought they would be. I recommend Nick and appreciate all he did for us
Patricia C.
5 months ago
We spent two days with Nick. Every stop was interesting. He knows Cornwall like the back of his hand. Always accommodating - a really nice guy
Paulette L.
5 months ago
Absolutely best decision I could have made. Nick was personable, knowledgeable, courteous and completely focused on customer service. He will do whatever he can to make his customers happy, more than any guide I have ever used. I use a cane. He made sure all the sites were comfortably accessible, had a wheelchair in the back of the van if needed and a “princess” step to make getting in and out of the van easier. He knows all the nooks and crannies of Cornwall, great photo opportunities and fascinating anecdotes. I don’t think Nick has ever met a stranger. Immediately warm and welcoming, he does so many thoughtful things. Water, drinks, hand wipes, phone chargers. He even pulled out a thermos to make hot tea during our custom curated tours. He is determined to make his customers happy. To have a great tour of Cornwall all you have to do is get in the van. Nick takes it from there. He wouldn’t get all these five star reviews if he wasn’t really, really good. Book him now and early. If you snooze, you lose. There’s only one Nick.
Maite M.
10 months ago
We took the nort Cornwall tour and all the stops were beautiful, Nick explained all the history of the places we saw, and also answered our question. We would really recommend it!
Mary K.
11 months ago
We had a wonderful ancestry day with Cornwall Tours. We’ve done similar tours in other countries, but this was by far the best. Nick helped us plan everything in advance and was flexible when we wanted to make changes, even on the day itself. Julian was an excellent guide. He was knowledgeable, easy to spend time with, and a skilled driver. The van was modern and stocked with thoughtful touches like water, snacks. We were given a binder of historical information about the towns we visited. Julian set a comfortable pace as we visited the towns and cemeteries of our ancestors, which made the day personal and relaxed. We highly recommend Cornwall Tours for anyone interested in exploring Cornwall or their family history.
Andy B.
12 months ago
We had an awesome time exploring Cornwall with Nick. He showed us sites that we never would have seen on our own not to mention navigating the skinny roads of the region. You wanna see Cornwall properly, call Nick!
Elena M.
12 months ago
The tour of Cornwall was excellent. Nick knew a lot about local towns and sites. He pointed out many things we did not know about before we visited. It was very nice not having to drive ourselves. We never had to worry about directions or parking as it was all taken care of. I highly recommend this tour company. It made exploring the area of Cornwall easy and stress free.
Meredith J.
1 year ago
I arranged a custom family history tour with Nick during some free time on a group tour. He created a thoughtful 5-hour itinerary around Camborne and Redruth, taking me to mining sites, cemeteries, and town centers connected to my ancestors. Nick was well-prepared and knowledgeable, and made the experience both informative and meaningful. Highly recommend!
Mary B.
1 year ago
Nick went above and beyond taking me on a fantastic Day Tour of West Cornwall. He exceeded all of my (high) expectations. Nick’s knowledge is extensive— of the rich history of the area, of the many sights and activities available to a first time visitor to the area, and of traffic patterns and parking spots. He kindly adjusted our schedule to accommodate accessing the causeway at Saint Michael’s Mount at low tide and tweaked our itinerary so we could enjoy some places that topped my wish list. I look forward to booking another wonderful tour with him next time I return.
mike G.
1 year ago
Nick’s tour was FANTASTIC, to say the least. He went out of his way to design an outstanding set of tours, and for us it was the Lizard Peninsula and North Cornwall. Both were well planned and the scenery fabulous. He is a wonderful guide, knowledgeable and very personable, and just a lot of fun! Highly recommend his tours.
Joanne M.
1 year ago
We've had a wonderful tour of the Lizard peninsular with Nick as our guide for the day. We got to see many beautiful places that we would never have got to, or found otherwise. Nick was extremely informative, accommodating, great fun and sensitive to all our needs (knees and hills!), he even organised fantastic weather! Thank you Cornwall Tours, we will definitely be booking again in the future as it's a perfect way to see this beautiful County.
Tiffany S.
2 years ago
Nick was absolutely incredible as both a transport from LHR to our Airbnb in Charlestown, and as a tour guide. Nick took my best friend and I on the most amazing adventure hike across the coast of Cornwall, all the way to Lands End, complete with laughs, history of the region, and proper English tea overlooking Logan Rock. Nick single-handedly made the tour seamless, scenic, interesting beyond belief, and took us to parts of Cornwall most only dream of seeing. If you can go on a tour with Nick, don’t walk, RUN! He is THE BEST!!

Tour Essentials

Private Tour

Accommodation pick up and drop off in our luxury minibus

Walking

Includes optional scenic coastal walks with accessible options

Photos

Fequent scenic photo stops througout the day.

Food & Drink

Traditional Cornish pasty lunch* Complimentary cold drinks

Flexible Route

Adaptable route and flexible timings to suit you

Attractions

Tickets for visitor attractions are not required to enjoy our packed itineraries.

Prices

Your Tour Guide

Picture of Nick

Nick

Nick is a local guide with a passion for the paddlesports, photography and all things outdoors. He never gets tired of exploring Cornwall and showing visitors some of our hidden gems that other locals want to keep a secret!

Nick's Tour Notes

This is an epic private tour of my favourite landmarks and hidden gems around the Falmouth, Truro and St Agnes areas; there is much to fit into a single day. I’ve designed this tour with cruise passengers in mind, so you won’t need to travel across the county to have a jaw-dropping  day ashore!

The itinerary below is the suggested route; we will adapt the day and timings as necessary to suit each group. I’ve kept the photos to a minimum here so you’ll have plenty of surprises on the day as we explore some of Cornwall’s best kept secrets!

Our luxury tour bus can carry your group of up to 8 passengers and will pick you up first thing in the morning when you disembark at Falmouth Docks, and drop you back in time for the ship’s sailing time at the end of the day

Cold drinks and snacks throughout the day are included.

Tour Itinerary

Pick Up
Pendennis Point
Historic coastal fort overlooking the sea view.

Our first stop is the headland below Pendennis Castle with far reaching views across the Fal Estuary to St Mawes castle and St Anthony Lighthouse.

Falmouth's Beaches
People enjoying a sunny day at Cornish beach

Our tour route then follows the coast road around Falmouth Bay past several golden beaches and hidden coves, through the village of Mawnan Smith and onto the Helford.

Durgan
Coastal cottages by a lush hillside and river.

Next stop is Durgan a picturesque, and historic fishing hamlet nestled on the banks of the Helford River.

St Agnes
Seaside pub with outdoor seating and flower baskets.

We cross over to the North Coast to St Agnes characterful coastal village shaped by centuries of mining, fishing, and strong Cornish identity.

Wheal Coates
Historic Cornish engine house overlooking coastal beachscape.

A short walk to see the iconic engine houses that form part of the UNESCO Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and one of Cornwall’s most photographed landmarks, perched spectacularly above the Atlantic on sheer cliffs.

Chapel Porth
Two ice cream cones by the beach

Lunch stop at the beautiful National Trust beach famed for its mining remains and legendary Hedgehog ice cream.

Truro
Truro Cathedral towers over surrounding buildings by river.

We'll pass through Truro, Cornwall's only city, a charming hub known for its striking Gothic Revival cathedral, rich history as a stannary port and excellent independent shopping.

Trelissick
Historic building with grand columns and steps.

A short stop at this "jewel in the crown" National Trust Counrty House and Garden to take in the stunning, panoramic views of the River Fal.

Come To Good
Charming thatched cottage in green countryside setting.

This tiny village is home to an historic Grade I Listed Quaker meeting house, a cob and straw thatch building dating from 1710 and containing glass dating from 1640.

Pandorra Inn
pandora inn

We'll round of the tour with a Cornish Cream Tea or maybe a glass of local ale at this quintessential british thatched pub on the banks of the River Fal then it's time to follow the river back through Falmouth to the harbour.

Common Questions

What's included in the tour?

Your tour includes:

  • Luxury private air-conditioned VW 8 seater minibus
  • Local pick up and drop off.
  • All parking and transport charges (including ferries where applicable).
  • Complimentary cold soft drinks throughout the day.
  • A knowledgeable local driver/guide throughout the day.
  • An album of high resolution digital photographs of your day.
What's not included?

Your tour does not include:

  • Attraction Tickets
    Our tours do not require paid entrance to any attractions. Many attractions are free to enter or can be viewed from the outside. Attractions that have additional entrance costs are marked with an asterix. These can be pre-booked by arrangement if required but are not essential or recommended to enjoy this packed itinerary.
  • Travel to and from Cornwall
    We can provide long-distance transfers the day before and after your tour. Please request if required
  • Additional Food & Drinks
    The tour includes optional stops for a Traditional Cornish Pasty Lunch and a Cornish Cream Tea. If you prefer we can assist with pub or restaurant bookings but this would reduce the time to see all the places on the itinerary.
  • Accommodation
    We are happy to recommend local accommodation.
How many people can I bring?

Our Luxury VW Transporter is licenced to carry 8 passengers.  Our sightseeing tours are perfect for 1-8 guests. For larger groups please contact us to check availability.

How long is the tour?

Our one-day tours typically run for 8 hours but may be longer depending on pick-up location and seasonal traffic.

What should I bring?

We recommend bringing a raincoat, suitable footwear for the coast path and a little spending money.

What if it's raining?

Don’t worry Cornwall is still beautiful in the rain! We will adapt the tour to ensure it doesn’t affect your enjoyment of the day.

What if I have limited mobility?

The tour bus is not wheelchair adapted but can easily store wheelchairs and buggies in the large boot. We will adapt tours to suit guests with limited mobility. Please contact us to discuss your options before booking.

Can I bring my dog?

Not all tours would be suitable for dogs. Please contact us to discuss your options before booking.

Can I cancel or change my dates?

Tours can be amended (subject to availability) or cancelled any time up to 14 days before your tour date.

Cancellations after this date are charged at 80% of the full price. We recommend that guests have suitable travel insurance to cover unexpected late cancellations.

What happens if the tour is cancelled?

In the unlikely event that your tour is cancelled by us, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

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