Chances are you’ve already seen these iconic yellow, blue and red boats off the East and South Devon coastline before – and so have your parents. Maybe even your parents’ parents!

Stuart Line Cruises have been operating along the Jurassic Coast since 1968. Starting off as a family-business it has remained so ever since, now proudly being run by the second and third generation of the Stuart family with Captain Jake and mum Philippa at the helm. 

All-year-round, their fleet of two traditional but modernised river boats – The Tudor Rose and the flagship vessel, the Pride of Exmouth – transport enthralled passengers along the calm waters of the River Exe providing a unique opportunity to see migratory bird life in action at this Special Site of Scientific Importance. Avocets, Redshanks, Curlews and Plovers can all be seen as well as resident seals who enjoy frolicking while looking for food and a chance to sunbathe.

With wildlife and stunning scenery aplenty, these river cruises are just as much a chance to see our local towns and villages from a new perspective too – the regal Powderham Castle looking particularly striking from the water.

From November – March, it’s the river cruises that fill the bill. Passengers are kept warm and cosy thanks to a complementary cuppa, the heated inside lower deck or with blankets which are provided for those who want to sit on the open-air upper deck.

The summer season starts from April, and with it comes the opportunity to explore the Jurassic Coast and gain a deeper insight into this 185-million-year-old geological spectacle. Mini (1 hour) and full (2-3 hour) Jurassic Coast cruises make for a fantastic taster to gain your sea legs and learn more about the geology of England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site.   

What’s more, on-boat facilities mean there’s no worries about the need for a toilet break or feeling peckish with a fully licenced bar plus hot and cold snacks available.

Got the bug? Why not make a day of it? Day trips run from Exmouth to Torquay, Brixham and Sidmouth once a week. Or why not book a Devon Cream Tea cruise for someone special to enjoy locally-sourced clotted cream and strawberry jam the only way that it should be – jam on top of cream!