From proposals, picnics or birthday celebrations to simply unforgettable family days out on the water, our private boat tours are the perfect way to explore the beautiful Fal estuary and the South Coast of Cornwall.
Tour Highlights
Historic Sites
See Cornwall's iconic landmarks, from lighthouses & castles to grand houses & ancient quays.
Waterside Dining
Enjoy local cuisine with stunning views at charming waterfront inns and cafes.
Hidden Beaches
Discover secluded sandy coves and deserted beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling
Special Occasions
Celebrate your special moments with a private tour tailored to your requirements.
Tour Essentials
Local Skipper
Your own knowledgable, local skipper guide
Private Tour
Private skippered speed boat charter for 1-7 People
Sealife Spotting
See dolphins, seals, sea birds and more..
Sightseeing
See historic sites with lots of photo opportunities
Food & Drink
Bring a picnic or stop at waterfront pubs & restaurants
Flexible Route
Adaptable route and flexible timings
Prices
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3.5 hours | Private Tour £375
Per 7 passengers
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Meeting Point
Mylor Yacht Harbour
Churchtown
Falmouth
TR11 5UF
Your Tour Guide
Giles
I am an experienced Royal Yachting Association power boat and sailing instructor, fully licensed by the local harbour authority for commercial skippered boat charters. Having lived and worked on these waters for many years, I know the area extremely well. I can advise where to visit, places to stop to have a swim or snorkel, pubs at which to dine and when the tides will allow them to be accessible, and also share some of the area's amazing history if that's of interest to you.
Scenic spots on the Fal Estuary
Mylor Yacht Harbour
Meet Giles, your skipper, at the marina in Mylor.
There is on site parking, w.c's and some waterside dining options.
Transport to here can be arranged on request (additional costs apply).
Flushing
A picturesque village with quaint streets, a rich maritime history, and a relaxing vibe.
Pendennis Castle
An impressive Tudor fortress built by Henry VIII, offering panoramic sea views and a glimpse into Cornwall's military history.
St Anthony Lighthouse
The iconic lighthouse marking the entrance the Fal estuary (also featured in the TV series Fraggle Rock).
Great & Little Molunan Beaches
Secluded sandy coves near St Anthony Head, perfect for a peaceful escape with stunning views of the Carrick Roads.
Place House
A historic mansion tucked away on the Roseland Peninsula, surrounded by lush gardens and serene waters.
St Mawes Castle
One of Henry VIII's best-preserved coastal fortresses with panoramic views across the Fal estuary.
Falmouth Harbour
One of the world’s largest natural harbours and home to the National Maritime Museum.
Pandora Inn
Historic 13th-century waterside inn with stunning views and delicious Cornish fare.
St Just In Roseland
A stunning waterside church set in subtropical gardens, overlooking the creek with timeless beauty.
Trelissick House & Garden
A National Trust treasure on the banks of the Fal, with stunning gardens a cafe and riverside walks.
King Harry Ferry
Spot this historic floating bridge - a chain ferry, that has been connecting Truro with the Roseland Peninsula since 1888.
Roundwood Quay
A Grade II Listed 18th Century quay, once a bustling site for the Cornish copper industry.
Devoran
A charming village steeped in mining history, nestled along the scenic shores of Restronguet Creek.
Point Quay
A peaceful spot with stunning views of the estuary, ideal for quiet moments or picnics by the water.
Malpas
A picturesque riverside village near Truro, offering scenic views of the Fal estuary and home to the famous Heron Inn.
Truro
Spot the Gothic Revival cathedral in the heart of Cornwall's capital.
Common Questions
Is Food & Drink included?
We are not licenced to serve any food or drink, however, we have a small fridge on board, so if you’d like to bring your own picnic (along with paper plates and plastic cups) you are more than welcome!
Alternatively, we can stop off at one of the waterside pubs for a bite to eat. It is advisable to book ahead if you’re seeking more than a drink and bar snack as securing a table on the day can be trickier during summer months.
Where can we be picked up from?
The preferred pick up/drop off point is from Mylor, as there’s plenty of reasonably priced parking and no pick up/drop off fees, and the pontoons are accessible at all tide heights.
However, it may be possible to pick you up from Falmouth, St Mawes or St Just in Roseland, although these will incur additional fees.
There will be times when the tides will not allow Carmen Rose to access these locations, but I will let you know if this is the case when you book.
How many people can I bring?
Carmen Rose is licenced by the Harbour Authority to carry 7 passengers on our private boat tours.
How long is the tour?
- Full-day boat tours run for approximately 7 hours.
- Half-day boat tours run for approximately 3.5 hours.
- Sunset boat tours run for approximately 2 hours
What should I wear?
This is entirely dependent on the weather, but it is advisable to bring layers in addition to lightweight waterproof jacket as it is usually cooler on the water than on land, and there may be some spray when we’re travelling at speed. Flip flops are the best footwear choice, although in summer’s days you’re most likely to be barefoot while aboard!
If you think you may want to go for a swim, bring towels and a swimming costume. While there is room to get changed in the cabin, headroom is limited, so I would suggest wearing your swimwear under your clothes to make life easier
What if the weather is bad?
Unfortunately Cornwall cannot guarantee perfect weather every day. We will keep an eye on the forecast, and if it looks like it the day of your booking will be miserable, either through heavy rain or strong winds, we will give you the option to change dates if there is availability to do so, or refund in full all the monies you have paid if there isn’t.
The odd shower won’t stop the trip from going ahead, but if it looks like the weather will impact your enjoyment of the day, re-arranging or cancelling is the preferred route to take!
Is there a toilet on board?
Yes, there is a flushing sea toilet in the cabin. This is really only to be used for ‘number ones’ and if the call is more pressing, the skipper will try to get you to an onshore facility as soon as possible!
Are Children and Pets Welcome?
Yes of course!
Life jackets are supplied for children (and adults) of any age, and we have a selection of different sized doggie life jackets on board too.
The cabin makes a great place for kids to play, or somewhere for teenagers to hide with their mobile phones… There’s a charging USB socket down there too!
If you love dogs but don’t have your own, we can usually supply Holly the boat spaniel to accompany us for no extra cost!
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 tour, an alternative date or a full refund.
