Getting out on the Helford River: boat hire, kayaking, sailing and guided trips
Romantic, unspoilt, picturesque, quiet, and full of wildlife, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped back in time in certain places on this enchanting and captivating river. Boathouses nestle amongst woods that spill over into the water, former bustling quays have morphed into grassy banks that sit serenely on the water’s edge, silent creeks hold secrets of smugglers and tales of derring do, and birdlife carries on much the same way it has done for centuries.
The Helford really is best seen from the water and mainstream services (i.e. ferries) only go as far inland as Helford Village itself. It’s a very safe and novice friendly water to navigate except in an Easterly but the hire companies won’t let you go if it looks at all unsafe.
There is plenty to explore out on the river from various ‘jumping off points’ depending on what takes your fancy. River trips will take you to on guided tours, hiring your own boat, kayak or stand up paddle board will give you the freedom to explore for yourself. Points of particular interest are
Frenchman’s Creek (made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s book of the same name), an unspoilt, mysterious and wildlife haven of tranquility
Tremayne Quay, which was built by Sir Richard Vyvyan in 1847 anticipating a visit from Queen Victoria - she never actually came to the quay. It is now owned by the National Trust and is a great place to visit by boat for a picnic or an overnight camp. Beware of the tide times getting on and off the quay
Port Navas: location of the former Duchy Oyster Farm which is now under new stewardship. It’s a very lovely village to jump off at and is home to what is arguably the smallest yacht club in the world: http://pnyc.co.uk
For more ideas on where to go on the river, have a look at https://helfordriver.net or check out our Guest Reviews for recommendations from people who’ve stayed in the cottage.
Boat, kayak and stand up paddle board hire at Helford Passage
Kiosk corner on the beach at Helford Passage is THE place to start when finding out what to do on the river and how to go about it. Ian and the team at Helford River Boats run the kiosk, the ferry over to Helford, a boat hire service (all boats named after the seven dwarfs!), kayak and stand up paddle board rental and sell crabbing kit, buckets and spades and amazing ice creams to boot.
They will advise on where to go when (including tide times) and recommend the perfect picnic or bbq spot.
It’s best to have a look at their website to see what they offer or give them a buzz on 01326 250770. All services are based from the kiosk down at Helford Passage.
“We towed a couple of paddleboards up Frenchman’s creek for the kids to joust with each other”
Helford River Cruises: a 90 minute boat tour of the river
These fascinating cruises are run by Helford River Cruises and depart from the tiny quay at The Budock Vean Hotel. I went with my parents (in their 70s) up the river for the hour and a half trip which was very comfortable and great fun. We passed by Helford Village, went a little way into the entrance to Frenchman’s Creek and cruised past Port Navas, Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens. It is undoubtably the best way to see the river if don’t want to charter your own boat. The very knowledgeable owners Tom and Hetty will tell you all about the history of the river, tales of yore, fill you in on what is going on these days and point out the abundant wildlife you will see on your cruise.
Private charter of the boat is also an option, as are gift certificates.
Guided Kayak trips to Frenchman’s Creek
Tom and Hetty also run Koru Kayaking with guided kayaking trips focussing on paddling up to Frenchman’s Creek and if the tide allows, further afield on the river. It is a truly fabulous way to experience the serenity and wildlife of the river and highly recommended.
Booking beforehand is essential either through their website or calling 07794 321 827.
Take the ferry across the Helford to Helford Village
Stepping onto the ferry at Helford Passage and heading across the water feels like a real adventure. The ferry is run by Helford River Boats and launches from a pontoon just opposite The Ferryboat Inn down on the beach at Helford Passage. Park in the top car park at Helford Passage as directed and either walk down the road or through the former hotel to the water’s edge.
Once on the other side at Helford Village, you can walk to Frenchman’s Creek, take a longer hike around the headland past St Anthony, via Manaccan and the New Inn, or simply enjoy a spot of lunch at The Shipwrights Arms or the Holy Mackerel Cafe.
Note: Ferry running times vary according to the seasons and tides. It does not operate from November – Easter – check Helford River Boats for running schedule.
Hire a sailing boat from Sailaway Boat Hire, based at St. Anthony
Sailaway have a wide range of craft for you to sail about in on the river and further afield if the weather permits. They are based at Gillan Creek and their boat stock includes Drascome Longboat Cruisers, Wayfairers, Laser and Topper dinghies (note, there are some limitations for Summer 2020 in operation). In high season, Sailaway will deliver a day hire boat to Helford Village, although it is best to phone them to enquire as to the best pick up point if you would like to launch from Helford Passage. If hiring for more than a day, they will deliver to all points on the river and if you need a mooring they can help with that too. Best to check with them prior to arriving in Cornwall and discuss options, prices and pick up points.
Helford Passage beach in summer