Accessible Boat Trips in North Devon: What the Ilfracombe Princess Can Offer

One of the things we are most proud of at the Ilfracombe Princess is that the experience of the North Devon coastline from the water is available to visitors who would find other boat trip formats difficult or impossible. The Princess is not accessible to every individual in every circumstance, and we will always be honest about this, but for the majority of visitors with mobility challenges, health conditions, or accessibility requirements, we can offer a genuinely comfortable and rewarding experience.

Here is an honest guide to what the Princess offers and how to establish whether it is suitable for your specific requirements.

The Vessel

The Ilfracombe Princess is a large catamaran with a stable, wide-beamed hull that provides a significantly gentler motion than smaller vessels. The lower deck is fully enclosed with large windows on both sides, comfortable fixed seating, and protection from wind and spray. There is an onboard toilet accessible without steps on the lower deck.

The upper deck, which is open to the elements, involves a stairway. Passengers with limited mobility will find the lower deck entirely comfortable for the full duration of any cruise, with excellent views of the coastline throughout.

Boarding

Boarding is via the harbourside. The access arrangement varies depending on tide state. At high water, boarding is broadly level. At low water, there may be a short ramp or steps involved. We strongly recommend contacting us before your visit to discuss your specific situation. Our crew are experienced and helpful, and we can advise on the best time of day for the most accessible boarding for your group.

Wheelchair users should contact us directly. We can accommodate some wheelchair users depending on the chair dimensions and the individual’s transfer ability, but we cannot guarantee this universally without a specific conversation.

Which Cruise Routes Are Best?

All of our cruise routes are available from the lower deck. If the priority is comfort and stability rather than a specific destination, the shorter Smugglers Caves route (approximately 75 to 90 minutes) is a good option for a first trip. Longer routes to Broadsands and the Exmoor cliffs are well worth considering once you are comfortable with the vessel.

Travelling with Mixed Groups

The Princess is particularly well suited to mixed groups where some members have accessibility requirements and others do not. While some family members are on the upper deck enjoying the open views, those who prefer the enclosed environment of the lower deck have an equally good experience with the same scenery through the windows.

Contact Us Before You Book

We would much rather have a five-minute conversation before your visit than have anyone arrive at the harbour uncertain about whether the experience is right for them. Contact us directly to discuss your requirements and we will give you an honest, clear answer.

Get in touch at ilfracombeprincess.co.uk or call us to discuss your visit.