Ilfracombe Princess

For a more traditional and leisurely way to explore the waters around North Devon and the Bristol Channel, the Ilfracombe Princess is a much-loved passenger vessel that has been a familiar presence in these waters for many years. Operating a range of pleasure cruises and ferry services from Ilfracombe harbour, the Princess offers a comfortable and thoroughly enjoyable way to experience the sea without the need for any specialist kit or previous experience.

The highlight of the Princess’s programme is undoubtedly the service to Lundy Island, the extraordinary wildlife sanctuary that sits some twenty miles off the North Devon coast in the Bristol Channel. Designated as England’s only Marine Conservation Zone, Lundy is home to puffins, Soay sheep, sika deer and a remarkable array of marine life, and the island’s remote, windswept beauty makes it one of the most special places in the whole of the British Isles. A day trip to Lundy from Ilfracombe is an experience unlike anything else available in the region.

Beyond the Lundy service, the Princess also operates coastal cruises that take passengers along the North Devon coastline, past the dramatic cliffs and rock formations between Ilfracombe and the headlands to the west. Seeing the coast from the water gives you an entirely new appreciation of its scale and grandeur, and the skipper’s commentary helps bring the local history and geology to life throughout the journey.

The vessel itself is well-appointed and comfortable, with indoor and outdoor seating areas and light refreshments available on board. All trips are dependent on weather and sea conditions, so it is worth checking in advance and booking your preferred departure as early as possible.

The Ilfracombe Princess offers one of the most relaxed and accessible ways to experience the magic of the North Devon coast from the sea. Booking in advance is always recommended, particularly for the popular Lundy sailings, and the vessel can also be hired for private group charters on request.