If you’re looking for the perfect boating destination, why not try somewhere local? Whilst it may not be the most exotic of choices, the UK actually has a lot to offer for boating enthusiasts.
In this article we’ve gathered our top 5 UK boating destinations for you to choose from:
- Falmouth, Cornwall
- Cowes, Isle of Wight
- Dartmouth, Devon
- The Lake District, Cumbria
- Isle of Skye, Scotland
1. Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth is a great place to take the family on a boating day trip. Its deep and sheltered harbour mean that, even in unreliable British weather, you’ll still find plenty of sailing opportunities amongst the Carrick Roads. For more inexperienced sailors, this could be an ideal opportunity to learn how to sail or powerboat. You’ll find that there are plenty of sailing schools to choose from!
Falmouth is also a great place for fishing enthusiasts as there are a wide variety of species and habitats in the area. The Falmouth website has a detailed list of the fish available year-round on their website for those curious to see what’s on offer. Incidentally its natural bounty also makes it a popular spot amongst divers. It’s particularly known for shallow wrecks and shore diving.
Falmouth is a popular place for shore diving. Photo: lovefalmouth on Instagram.
2. Cowes, Isle Of Wight
Cowes is another renowned UK boating destination, home to the oldest and biggest sailing regatta in the world. Over 8,000 sailors compete in the Cowes Week regatta, there are also plenty of other activities going on during the eight-day extravaganza. Whilst spectators can get a good view from shore, there’s also the option to watch from a spectator boat for those who want part of the action. This year’s regatta is taking place between the 31st of July and the 6th of August.
Even outside of Cowes Week, the Isle of Wight is undoubtedly a brilliant location for a sailing holiday, offering warmer weather than the rest of the UK thanks to their microclimate. If you’re a more experienced sailor you could sail across the Solent to the Isle of Wight yourself.
Over 8,000 sailors compete in the Cowes Week regatta. Photo: cowesweek.co.uk
3. Dartmouth, Devon
Dartmouth is another great West Country boating location. It may be a small town, but it certainly has plenty to offer: from cruising down the River Dart to fishing trips and sea kayaking. Inland cruisers can enjoy exploring quaint towns and villages such as Dittisham and Totnes while heading up the River Dart. If you’re more into coastal cruising you can head out of the harbour to Brixham, a nearby fishing town.
In case that wasn’t enough, it’s also home to the Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week. If you love racing, head down to Darmouth from Saturday 21st through to Sunday 29th August 2021 to check it out. And, if you’re feeling competitive, amateur sailors can even participate in some events. For a full rundown of the races and events, head to their website.
Brixham is a nearby fishing town that can be reached by boat from Dartmouth. Photo: Terry Starmore
4. The Lake District, Cumbria
If you’re more into inland sailing, the Lake District is the perfect boating destination for you. And even if you’re more of a seafarer, don’t be so quick to cross it off your list; it was even added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites back in 2017.
The Lake District is one of England’s most picturesque regions, covered in rugged mountains, numerous beautiful lakes and even a stretch of coastline. So there’s plenty of water activities available (rowing, sailing, fishing, windsurfing and kayaking to name a few).
Some of the most popular lakes for boating include: Windermere, Coniston, Ullswater and Derwent Water. If you want more information about boating in The Lake District, head over to their website.
Windermere is the largest natural lake in England and a popular boating location. Photo: Jacqueline O'Gara
5. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Whilst it may not have the best weather, it’s no secret that Scotland is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the UK. With beautiful, mountainous landscapes and plenty of islands to explore, the rugged Scotish charm is sure to win you over.
The Isle of Skye, located just off the northwest coast of Scotland, is teaming with natural beauty and wildlife. If you’re looking for a tranquil and scenic getaway, this could be the perfect destination for you. Sailing or powerboating your way around Skye is the best way to enjoy all that the island has to offer.
The Isle of Skye is the perfect place for a scenic getaway. Photo: Daniel Tonks
Rent a Boat
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