Our Boats (& Passenger Ferry)

Our Boats (& Passenger Ferry)

We have a large fleet of vessels that operate on the River Dart and in Torbay for sea going voyages and tours and on the Western Lady Ferry operation. We are also proud operators of the historic vessel the paddle steamer Kingswear Castle, the last remaining coal fired paddles steamer in the UK. We carry out all our vessel maintenance at our own yard at Old Mill, nestled in from the River Dart in a creek just beyond Dartmouth.

The last item on this page provides timetable information for the passenger ferry.

Paddlesteamer Kingswear Castle

Join us for an unparalleled experience cruising on the river Dart. The Kingswear Castle is the last remaining coal-fired paddle steamer in the UK. She was built in 1924 at Philip & Son of Dartmouth and has been lovingly restored to her former glory, beautifully reflecting the style and craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Dart Explorer

Our flagship 'The Dart Explorer' is a wonderfully appointed vessel. The 300 seater luxury Catamaran can accommodate up to 100 guests for informal dining and up to 80 guests for formal dining. The Dart Explorer has a fully stocked bar and small dance floor and is regularly used as a Wedding Reception, Corporate or Party venue.

Cardiff Castle

Our largest vessel in the fleet can carry up to 400 passengers and is ideal for larger groups. The Cardiff Castle now boasts 'The Blues Bar' - a fabulous contemporary bar and a lovely addition to the boat.

Dart Venturer

A well appointed vessel which can accommodate 300 passengers with 100 under cover. Mainly based in Torquay through the summer season as the Western Lady Ferry service, she has a fully stocked lounge bar aboard.

Dittisham Princess

The Dittisham Princess is licensed to carry 185 passengers. Mainly based in Torquay through the summer season as the Western Lady Ferry service.

Dartmouth Princess & Kingswear Princess

Our passenger ferries can be seen toing and froing across the river Dart between Dartmouth and Kingswear - carrying passengers to/from the train station at Kingswear and generally helping locals reach the other side!

PASSENGER FERRY

TIMETABLE

MONDAY-SATURDAY : 0730 to 1855
1st Departure Dartmouth - 0730
1st Departure Kingswear - 0740
(FERRY BREAK 13:00 – 13:30)
Last Departure Dartmouth - 1850
Last Departure Kingswear - 1855

SUNDAY : 0900 to 1855
1st Departure Dartmouth - 0900
1st Departure Kingswear - 0910
(FERRY BREAK 13:00 – 13:30)
Last Departure Dartmouth - 1850
Last Departure Kingswear - 1855

Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta

We will operate the passenger ferry for longer hours on Saturday 31st August 2024. Hours are as follows:
1st Departure Dartmouth 0730 
1st Departure Kingswear - 0740
Last Departure Kingswear - 2215
Last Departure Dartmouth - 2230
(dropping Kingswear 2235; no return to Dartmouth)

Fares

Adult single fare £2.00
Child single fare £1.00
Adult book of tickets (x20) £20.00 (i.e. £1 each)
Child book of tickets (x20) £15.00 (i.e. 75p each)

Reviews

  • Sunny days - The river cruise was a delight, such a fun and knowledgeable crew member giving the commentary, really is a must if visiting the area.
  • Nostalgic day out - Had a great day on the steam railway and paddleboat with my family. Fantastic views during the railway trip and equally excellent views, and commentary, during the river cruise. Well worth the cost, friendly and helpful staff.
  • Agatha Christie country - The ride on the train is beautiful right along the coast & Dart valley. You can also take your well behaved dog. I would highly recommend this excursion, we go every time that we are in Devon, it is not to be missed.

Read more reviews on TripAdvisor