Explore the Stunning Cornish Coastline on a Boat Trip in St Ives!
Discover hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and incredible wildlife on St Ives boat trips. Set sail from this picturesque Cornish town and experience the stunning coastline from the water.

Our Boat Trips
£30 Adult
£25 Children
The Sea Safari Rib Ride visits our resident seal colony as well as taking in the main sights around St Ives Bay.
45 mins
Adult & Children Friendly
£55 Adult
£50 Children
These St Ives boat trips are extra special, with limited spaces available. Running only when conditions and wildlife allow, they’re usually afternoon or sunset dolphin trips—giving you the best chance to spot these incredible creatures! 🐬
1 Hour 30 mins
Adult & Children Friendly

From £300
Bespoke itinerary to take you upon an adventure, where you can have a blast around the bay and beaches until your hearts content.
45 mins
Adult & Children Friendly

Surround yourself with Cornwall’s amazing marine wildlife

Grey Seals
(Halichoerus grypus)
Age: up to 46 years
Fun Fact
Grey seals can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes while diving for fish!

Common Dolphins
(Delphinus delphis)
Age: up to 50 years
Fun Fact
Dolphins communicate using a series of whistles and clicks, like their own underwater language.

Minke Whales
(Balaenoptera acutorostrata)
Age: up to 50 years
Fun Fact
Minke whales have a unique white band on their flippers, making them easy to identify.

Harbour Porpoises
(Phocoena phocoena)
Age: up to 23 years
Fun Fact
These shy creatures are the smallest cetaceans in UK waters, rarely leaping like dolphins.

Seabirds
(Various species)
Manx Shearwater can live up to 55 years.
Fun Fact
Gannets can dive from heights of 30 metres, hitting the water at speeds over 60mph!
Pre-book your Boat Trip with us
Secure your spot on one of our unforgettable St Ives boat trips by booking in advance.
What to bring with you
To make the most of your St Ives boat trip, we recommend bringing these essentials. While summer days are often sunny, the weather can change quickly, so it’s always best to be prepared:
- A light jacket – it can get breezy on the water
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife
- Comfortable footwear, such as flip-flops or trainers
Come aboard with Blue Thunder
Since 2019, Blue Thunder Ribs has been delivering exhilarating St Ives boat trips, including sea safaris and high-speed adventures along the stunning coastline. Our experienced local skippers are passionate about sharing Cornwall’s incredible beauty and wildlife with you.








- Experienced local skippers
- Comfortable, well-maintained boats
- High chance of wildlife sightings
- Trips for all ages and group sizes
- Easy online booking and friendly customer service
Experience Cornwall with us
Join us on a St Ives boat trip and see what incredible wildlife you can discover!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a boat trip?
You can book your trip online through our website, give us a call, or visit our booking kiosk in St Ives Harbour. We recommend booking in advance during peak season to avoid disappointment!
What should I bring on the boat trip?
We suggest bringing:
- A light jacket (it can get breezy on the water)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A camera for capturing the stunning views and wildlife
- Comfortable footwear (flip-flops or trainers are fine)
Will I see seals, dolphins, or other wildlife?
While we can’t guarantee wildlife sightings, our experienced skippers know the best spots to see seals, dolphins, seabirds, and sometimes even basking sharks!
Are the boat trips suitable for children?
Yes! Our trips are family-friendly, and children of all ages are welcome. We provide life jackets for added safety.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We closely monitor the weather for safety. If your trip is cancelled due to poor conditions, we’ll offer a full refund or reschedule your trip at your convenience.
Can I bring my dog on the boat?
Yes! Well-behaved dogs are welcome on most of our trips. Just let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.
Are private boat charters available?
Yes! We offer private and bespoke charters for families, groups, and special occasions. Contact us to tailor your trip.
Where do the boat trips depart from?
All trips depart from St Ives Harbour. Detailed meeting instructions will be provided upon booking.
Is there parking near the departure point?
Parking in St Ives can be busy in peak season. We recommend using the Park & Ride at St Erth or Trenwith Car Park, then walking down to the harbour.