Sea Safari/Godrevy Lighthouse | Sightseeing Tour in St Ives | Boat Tour, Attraction, Wildlife | Sightseeing Tour | Boat Tour

Read the full experience

Situated along the rugged coast of Cornwall, St Ives offers an adventure perfect for wildlife lovers and coastline enthusiasts alike. The Sea Safari with St Ives Boat Services takes visitors on a captivating journey across St Ives Bay to one of the area’s most celebrated natural attractions—Godrevy Island. This tour combines scenic ocean cruising with close-up wildlife encounters, making it an outstanding choice for families, photographers, and curious explorers. The highlight of this trip is the chance to see grey seals lounging on the rocks or gliding through the surf around Godrevy Island’s cliffs. As the boat halts near the historic lighthouse—the very one Virginia Woolf famously captured in her writings—guests learn about the area's maritime history from expert skippers. The lighthouse’s distinctive silhouette has guided sailors since the 19th century and adds a dramatic backdrop to the adventure. What makes this experience stand out is the mix of awe-inspiring natural scenery and rich cultural history. The cliffs, formed from Devonian bedrock, show off impressive geological features, while local seabirds, such as puffins and gulls, add to the vibrant marine ecosystem. The tour is family-friendly and offers breathtaking views of the Cornish coast, making it suitable for all ages. St Ives Boat Services is a trusted local operator committed to sustainable tourism and environmental preservation. Their interactive approach ensures guests leave with a deeper understanding of the coast’s wildlife and heritage, all while enjoying a safe, exhilarating ride. Whether you're snapping photos of seals, soaking in the panoramic views, or learning about Cornwall’s maritime culture, this tour offers a memorable slice of seaside adventure. It’s an ideal way to spend a day in Cornwall—at the intersection of nature, history, and adventure.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5–2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all ages and physical levels, with minimal physical exertion involved.

Frequently asked questions

How close will I get to the seals?

The boat approaches the seals closely enough for good viewing but at a safe distance to ensure their well-being.

Is the trip suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.

What should I wear?

Wear layered clothing, waterproof gear in case of spray, and bring sun protection for summer tours.

Are there restrooms on board?

Restrooms are available on the boat for your convenience.

Can I bring snacks or drinks?

Yes, but alcohol is not permitted during the trip for safety reasons.

Is the trip affected by weather?

Sea conditions can cause cancellations or rescheduling; safety always comes first, so check with the operator in advance.

Local insights

Wildlife

Common Dolphins
Seabirds such as puffins and gannets

History

The Godrevy Lighthouse was completed in 1859 and has guided mariners along these waters for over 160 years.

Conservation

St Ives Boat Services emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimizing disturbance to marine life and promoting reef-safe tour operations.

About St Ives Boat Services

St Ives Boat Services operates from St Ives, England, offering guided coastal boat trips focused on wildlife and local history. The company runs sea safaris across St Ives Bay to Godrevy Island and Seal Island, where Atlantic grey seals are frequently observed. Expert skippers provide commentary on the Cornish coastline, local landmarks, and the history behind Godrevy Lighthouse, which inspired Virginia Woolf. Tours are family-friendly and suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, with safety measures and experienced crew aboard. Trips depart from St Ives harbour and follow established coastal routes to popular wildlife viewing points. The Sea Safari/Godrevy Lighthouse cruise highlights views of Godrevy Lighthouse and opportunities to see grey seals at Godrevy Island. The Sea Safari (Seal Island or Godrevy Lighthouse) option offers flexibility to visit Seal Island or the lighthouse depending on sightings and conditions. St Ives Boat Services emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing and adherence to local guidance to minimize disturbance to seals and marine habitat. Skippers share factual information about seal behavior, breeding seasons, and conservation context when sightings occur. The business appeals to visitors seeking nature experiences, photography opportunities, and narrated local history from an on-board perspective. Booking information, departure times, and ticketing availability are managed by the operator and can be confirmed prior to arrival. St Ives Boat Services provides a reliable way to explore St Ives Bay, observe Atlantic grey seals, and enjoy scenic views of the Cornish coast. Trips suit families, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and visitors with varying mobility levels.

Base locationSt Ives, England

Tours offered2+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Stay seated during the cruiseHold on and remain seated to ensure safety while the boat is underway.

Bring waterproof clothingWeather can change quickly at sea, so pack rain jackets or waterproof layers.

Capture the momentUse a waterproof camera or phone to photograph seals and stunning vistas.

Arrive early for boardingGetting to the dock early ensures a smooth check-in and good seating options.

Recommended gear

Waterproof jacket: Keeps you dry during sea spray and unexpected showers.
Binoculars: Enhances views of seals and seabirds from the boat.
Sunscreen: Protects skin during sunny days on the water.
Hat and sunglasses: Shield your eyes from glare for better viewing and comfort.