Cornwall: 2 Hour Wildlife Watching RIB Tour Review
If you’re visiting Cornwall and craving a close-up view of its wild marine life, a 2-hour wildlife watching RIB tour from Penzance offers a thrilling and authentic experience. This trip, run by Atlantic Adventures, takes you on a 7-meter rigid-hulled inflatable boat (or RHIB, if you want to get technical) through Mounts Bay, where you can expect to see dolphins, porpoises, seals, whales, sunfish, and a variety of seabirds. The boat itself is as much a part of the adventure as the creatures you’ll be lucky enough to spot, with a 360-degree view that keeps you immersed in the scenery and wildlife.
What I particularly like about this experience is how knowledgeable the guides are—they don’t just cruise around aimlessly but actively look for signs of wildlife, sharing insights along the way. Plus, the sense of being so close to the water, feeling that spray and listening to the sounds of the ocean, makes it a lively, memorable outing. The tour includes waterproofs and warm clothing, which is a thoughtful touch considering how quickly the weather can change on the coast. One possible drawback is that if you’re prone to seasickness, this is a boat that truly puts you on the water’s edge—so it’s best to prepare accordingly.
This tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and wildlife spotting—especially for those who enjoy small-group activities and expert guides. It’s also a flexible experience, with the option to reserve in advance and cancel with a full refund if needed. Whether you’re an animal lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun sea adventure, this trip promises a memorable day on Cornwall’s stunning coast.
Key points / Takeaways
- Wildlife Focus: Spot dolphins, porpoises, seals, whales, sunfish, and seabirds, with expert guides to help you identify them.
- Close-to-Water Experience: The RHIB’s design allows for an immersive 360° view and proximity to marine wildlife.
- Scenic Coastline: Cruise past charming fishing hamlets and rocky coves along Mounts Bay, making it a visual feast.
- Weather Preparedness: Waterproofs and warm clothing are supplied; be ready for splashes and changeable weather.
- Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, making for an intimate and engaging tour.
- Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Penzance
Exploring Cornwall from the Water: A Detailed Look
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour departs from Penzance Harbour, a lively spot with plenty of parking nearby. If you’re driving, the large car park next to the harbour is your best bet. The meeting point is outside the Penzance Sailing Club, located behind a fenced compound with boats, with the postcode TR18 2LL. The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, but it’s worth arriving a bit early to get your gear sorted and soak in the harbour atmosphere.
The tour is designed for small groups, capped at 7 people, which keeps things cozy and allows your guide to give personalized attention. You’ll love the flexible booking options: reserve your spot without paying upfront, and you can cancel for a full refund if your plans change—up to 24 hours before. Keep in mind, there’s a minimum of 2 bookings required; if you’re the only person booked 48 hours ahead, the provider will contact you to reschedule or cancel.
What To Expect and the Itinerary
Once aboard the 7-meter RHIB, you’ll immediately notice how close you are to the water—an advantage for wildlife spotting but also meaning you’ll feel the sensation of spray from the waves. The boat is equipped with waterproofs, which you’re encouraged to wear, especially if the weather is a bit breezy or showery.
Your journey will take you out from Penzance Harbour into Mounts Bay, a stunning stretch of water dotted with fishing villages, rocky outcrops, and open sea. The guide, often a local with a sharp eye for wildlife, actively scans the water and sky, pointing out signs of dolphins or seabirds. As one review mentions, guides like “Mis Me” captain Paul are adept at spotting the subtle signs that indicate marine life nearby.
Depending on the day’s luck and sea conditions, you might see playful dolphins chasing the boat, seals basking on rocks, or even a rare whale or sunfish lurking beneath the surface. The chance of sightings varies, but the guides’ expertise maximizes your chances. The tour also includes stops along the coast, allowing you to admire the scenic fishing hamlets and coves that make this part of Cornwall so picturesque.
Wildlife Spotting and What You Might See
Preparing yourself for a wildlife-rich experience, keep an eye on the water and sky. Dolphins and porpoises are common and often playful, sometimes surfacing just a few meters from the boat. Seals tend to lounge on rocks or swim nearby, adding to the charm. Whales are less frequent but possible, especially during certain seasons. Sunfish, a fascinating and gentle giant of the ocean, are also sometimes spotted.
Birdlife around Mounts Bay is plentiful—gulls, gannets, and cormorants often circle overhead or rest on rocks. These birds are excellent indicators of healthy marine ecosystems, and your guide will help you identify them, adding an educational touch to the trip.
The Experience’s Value: Why It’s Worth It
Compared to larger boat trips, this RIB tour offers a more intimate experience, where you’re closer to the action and the guide’s attention isn’t spread thin. The small group setting creates a friendly atmosphere, perfect for photography or just soaking up the scenery. The expert guidance greatly enhances the experience, as they help you interpret signs of wildlife and point out details you might miss on your own.
The price, which generally aligns with other specialized excursions, reflects the quality of the experience—personal, knowledgeable, and with a focus on authentic encounters. You are paying for more than just a boat ride; you’re paying for those memorable moments when a pod of dolphins leaps out of the water or a seal pops its head up nearby.
Who Would Love This?
This tour is ideal for families with children over 7, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an active, engaging way to explore Cornwall’s coast. The minimum age requirement is 7, and kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s also a good choice for people comfortable on the water, as the boat is close to the surface and might be a bit bouncy.
If you love a small-group, guided adventure with a focus on wildlife, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty with the thrill of spotting marine animals up close.
Price and Practical Tips
The tour costs are reasonable given the personalized nature of the experience, and the included waterproofs add value—especially on a day with unpredictable weather. Remember to bring layers, a hat, sunscreen, and water—though these might seem basic, they are key to enjoying your trip comfortably.
Because the boat is so close to the water, expect to get splashed; don’t wear your best clothes, and be prepared for some wet moments. The guide will give safety instructions at the start, but always listen carefully, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.
Final Thoughts
For anyone eager to see Cornwall’s coast from a fresh perspective, this 2-hour wildlife watching RIB tour offers a genuinely engaging adventure. The combination of scenic views, expert guides, and the chance to observe marine animals in their natural habitat makes it a worthwhile option for nature lovers and curious explorers alike. The small-group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the flexible booking policy removes some of the usual travel planning worries.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone wanting a lively day on the water, this trip balances fun, discovery, and scenic beauty. It’s a perfect way to connect with Cornwall’s marine environment and create memories that will stay with you long after the boat ride ends.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 7 and above can participate, but kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is lively and involves being close to the water, so consider your child’s comfort with that.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and water. Waterproofs are supplied, but dressing in layers is wise because it can get quite cold and breezy out on the water.
Will I get wet?
Yes, there’s a high chance of getting splashed, especially since the boat is very close to the water surface. Wearing waterproof clothing helps keep you comfortable.
How do I know if there will be wildlife sightings?
While sightings depend on the day and luck, guides are experienced at spotting signs of marine life and will do their best to show you dolphins, seals, whales, and sunfish.
What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience also offers flexible booking—reserve now and pay later.
Is this tour suitable if I get seasick easily?
It might be challenging because the boat stays close to the water and can be lively. If seasickness is a concern, take precautions and consider whether you’re comfortable on smaller, open boats.
This Cornwall wildlife RIB tour from Penzance is a terrific way to combine scenic coastlines with the thrill of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. It’s authentic, personal, and packed with the kind of moments that make a trip memorable.