Ilfracombe Harbour, Ilfracombe, EX34 9EQ
Devon Sea Safari brings a genuine sense of wonder and discovery to every trip it runs along the North Devon coast, combining expert wildlife guiding with the excitement of exploring one of England’s most dramatic and least-visited coastlines from the water. Operating from Ilfracombe, the team runs a range of RIB-based adventures that take passengers to the most breathtaking spots along this magnificent stretch of shore, from the soaring cliffs of Hillsborough to the wildlife-rich waters around Lundy Island.
The wildlife experience on a Devon Sea Safari trip is outstanding. The Bristol Channel and the waters immediately off North Devon support an extraordinary range of marine wildlife, and the guides are passionate naturalists who know exactly where and when to look for the most impressive species. Grey seals are encountered regularly throughout the year, often in large haul-out groups on rocky reefs. Common dolphins are a highlight of summer trips, frequently riding bow waves and performing acrobatic leaps alongside the RIB. Basking sharks, minke whales and harbour porpoises all make appearances, and the seabird colonies on the cliffs provide a constant backdrop of gannets, guillemots and razorbills.
Trips are available in various formats, from shorter introductory tours to full-day offshore adventures, and the team offers tailored package for wildlife photography enthusiasts, families and corporate groups. The guides are accredited and the operation is run to high environmental and safety standards, with a genuine commitment to responsible wildlife watching throughout.
Ilfracombe is just fifteen minutes from Woolacombe by car, and the harbour itself is a lovely place to spend time before and after your trip. Book well in advance for summer sailings, as the most popular trip dates fill up quickly.
Devon Sea Safari is, quite simply, one of the finest wildlife experiences available anywhere on the South West coast. The team are accredited wildlife guides operating to responsible watching guidelines, and their commitment to the local marine environment shines through in every trip they run.
