coast TRAVEL
Discover epic underwater enigmas, spot dolphins arcing through the water, and walk on remote islands when you book a safari around the British Isles
The British Isles coast is full of variety, from dramatic cliffs to sheltered bays and tiny island archipelagos peppered with historic sites and chattering seabirds. Going on a sea safari expands your horizons to experience rarely seen, offshore vistas and offer thrilling snapshots of life above and below the ocean’s surface. As people and wildlife ride the waves in harmony, expect a sailor’s eye view of the natural world and understand better how myths and legends came about. Sea safaris are for all ages, a magical experience to unite friends and family under their spell.
1. FOR… DEVON DELIGHTS ILFRACOMBE, NORTH DEVON
Ilfracombe Sea Safari is TripAdvisor’s number-one ranked tour operator in the area, and the stability of its vessels helps sea sickness sufferers. The one to two-and-a-half-hour journeys start from the harbour, which has plenty of parking, but call ahead to discuss disabled access. Depending on the safari, you’ll discover Lundy Island, Tunnels Beaches, the Torrs, Bull Point Lighthouse and Sheracombe Waterfall. A sunset safari to see the seals is also available. Look out for nesting seabirds, porpoises and dolphins en route.
How to book: From £24.50pp. Call 07827 679189 or go to ilfracombeseasafari.co.uk.
Where to stay: The Carlton Hotel is a dog-friendly coastal retreat with wellness treatments. From £199 per double room per night (01271 862446, ilfracombecarlton.co.uk).
2. FOR… SNORKELLING AND SEALS NEWQUAY HARBOUR, CORNWALL
Newquay Sea Safaris and Fishing offers snorkelling or sealsearching adventures. The first is a private charter, featuring quests for kelp forests, fish, mussels, and more. A snorkel kit and wetsuit are provided. Meanwhile, the Seal Cove Safari is the operator’s most popular safari experience, where guests view marine wildlife and birds before arriving at Seal Cove to watch seals in their natural habitat and learn how to identify them. Dolphins and basking sharks also promised if they are present.
How to book: From £35pp. Call 07582 466122 or go to newquayseasafarisandfishing.co.uk.
Where to stay: The Headland offers palatial suites or luxury self-catering cottages. Rooms from £195 per night and cottages from £200 per night (01637 872211, headlandhotel.co.uk).
3. FOR… PUFFINS BY THE POUND MARTIN’S HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE
Pembrokeshire’s offshore islands are known for their remarkable wildlife. Skomer Island with its Viking origins is famous for thousands of puffins, and for being a National
