Dart Boat Hire
Dartmouth Boat Hire Centre
Everywhere on the River you see these little boats with yellow tops busily cruising the river from Dartmouth to Totnes. Where are they from and whose are they? They are the boats belonging to Dartmouth Boat Hire which operates until 31 October from its central kiosk on Dartmouth’s North Embankment (just behind the Bandstand)
There has been a boat hire business here for over 20 years and it is now owned and operated by Perry Smith and his son James. This is their second season and during the last winter the boats and engines were rigorously overhauled and a more varied selection of boats were introduced including a Dell Quay Dory and a larger Microplus Explorer Cabin Cruiser taking 7 passengers. The fleet of popular Bon Witco Cabin cruisers was also enlarged.
The River Dart is the ideal river to explore with a small boat and the most popular excursions are to Dittisham and, with the appropriate tide, to Tuckenhay, Sharpham and Totnes. There is more detail of these trips on their website www.dartmouth-boat-hire.co.uk
It is important to remember that whilst some experience of boat handling is required you do not need a licence or any other type of formal qualification. You will receive detailed instruction on the use of the boat and the chart and other navigational documents that are supplied – all to make your exploration of the river more enjoyable, rewarding and free of anxiety.
The trips are inclusive of:
- All fuel
- Modern automatic life jackets for adults (standard jackets for children including toddlers)
- Instruction on chart and engine from experienced staff
- Pack including chart, and local directions
Your trip is as flexible as you want to make it. There a variety of boats available to suit parties from 2 to 7. The length of hire is tailored to your requirements from 1 to 7 hours up to 7pm or later by special arrangement. The fleet includes 5 Bon Witco 15’ Cabin Cruisers with steering wheels Mariner 4 stroke engines and seating for 6, an open version of this boat, and for larger parties up to 8, Fisherman boats with cuddies. Their new additions are the stylish Dell Quay Dory and a larger Cabin Boat taking 7 in comfort.