11/07/2017
Dartmouth, a gem nestled in the South Hams, offers a breathtaking maritime experience for both casual visitors and seasoned sailors alike. Navigating its picturesque waters, however, comes with its own set of practicalities, chief among them understanding harbour dues and optimising your visit. This comprehensive guide will demystify the process of settling your charges and unveil the unparalleled cruising opportunities that await you in this historic Devon town.
Understanding Dartmouth Harbour Dues
For any vessel intending to use the beautiful River Dart, the payment of harbour dues is a fundamental requirement. These charges contribute to the maintenance and management of the harbour, ensuring it remains a safe and enjoyable environment for all maritime activities. The process of payment has been streamlined for your convenience, offering two primary methods to settle your dues.
Firstly, you may encounter a member of the River Team directly on the water. These dedicated individuals are often patrolling the river and are equipped to accept payments for harbour dues on the spot. This method offers unparalleled convenience, allowing you to settle your obligations without needing to deviate from your journey or activity on the water.
Alternatively, payments can also be made at the Harbour Office. Located centrally, the Harbour Office serves as the administrative hub for Dart Harbour and provides a welcoming point of contact for all maritime inquiries, including the payment of dues. Whether you prefer to pay in person or require further assistance, the Harbour Office staff are there to help ensure your visit is as smooth as possible.
It is always advisable to pay your dues promptly upon arrival or commencement of using the harbour facilities. Adhering to these regulations ensures a harmonious experience for everyone enjoying the stunning waters of Dartmouth.
Dartmouth offers a variety of landing and berthing facilities, catering to different types of vessels and durations of stay. Understanding the specific rules and limitations for each is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Many facilities have distinct arrangements for visitors, residents, and commercial vessels, so paying close attention to signage is always recommended.
Free Berthing for Tenders and Dinghies (Max LOA 4.3m)
For smaller vessels, specifically tenders and dinghies no more than 4.3 metres in length overall (LOA), Dartmouth provides several walk-ashore pontoon areas where short-term berthing is available free of charge. These facilities are incredibly convenient for accessing the town and its amenities.
Mayors Avenue Pontoon (North Embankment)
- Max LOA: 4.3m
- Berthing: Up to 12 hours
- Important Note: For safety reasons and to ensure clear passage for others, dinghies and tenders should not be pulled up onto the pontoon itself.
‘Double Steps’ Pontoon (North of Town Jetty)
- Max LOA: 4.3m
- Berthing: Up to 6 hours
- Request: Vessel skippers are politely requested not to obstruct the 'Commercial Vessel' pontoon located immediately to the South, as this area is vital for commercial operations.
- Restriction: There is a 'no return' policy within 6 hours of your departure from this pontoon to ensure fair access for all.
- Peak Times: During periods of high demand, extra temporary pontoons may be installed to accommodate more vessels.
‘Dart Harbour Yacht Club’ Pontoon (Seasonal)
- Free Berthing: Up to 2 hours.
- Longer Periods: Should you require berthing for a longer duration, arrangements can be made by contacting the River Patrol on VHF Channel 11 (call sign Dartnav) or by visiting the Harbour Office.
Kingswear Facilities
Across the river, Kingswear also offers convenient options for small craft.
Kingswear Dinghy Rack
- Max LOA: 4.3m
- Berthing: Up to 6 hours
Darthaven Marina
- Berthing: Up to 2 hours on the inside of the visitors' pontoon.
Dittisham Pontoon
Further upriver, Dittisham provides another accessible landing point.
- Max LOA: 4.3m
- Berthing: Up to 6 hours
- Peak Times: During busy periods, extra temporary pontoons are installed, which can accommodate vessels up to 6 metres LOA. Always refer to the signs displayed on the pontoon for current guidelines.
Stoke Gabriel Pontoons
Stoke Gabriel offers specific options, particularly for those looking to explore further inland.
Stoke Gabriel Pontoon
- Berthing: Up to 6 hours.
Stoke Gabriel Mill Point Pontoon
This pontoon has specific tidal access considerations:
- Accessibility: Only accessible when the height of tide (HOT) at Stoke Gabriel (SG) is 2.3 metres or less.
- Tidal Difference: HOT at SG is generally between 0.3 and 0.9 metres lower than the HOT at Dartmouth.
- Foreshore Access: When the tide is lower, access may be possible via the foreshore, approximately 2.5 hours either side of Low Water (LW) at the village (LW SG is 30-40 minutes later than LW Dartmouth).
- Caution: Please observe signs on the pontoon and exercise caution when navigating the foreshore to the village.
Utilising Dartmouth's Slipways
For those looking to launch or recover larger vessels, Dartmouth and its surrounding areas provide several slipways. It's important to understand the facilities and any associated limitations.
Dartmouth Public Slipway
A public slipway is conveniently located in Dartmouth, adjacent to the Higher Car Ferry. This facility is ideal for quickly launching or retrieving a vessel. Harbour dues for using this slipway are payable either to a member of the River Team on the water or directly at the Harbour Office, as with other river usage.
However, it is crucial to note a significant limitation for this specific slipway: there is no parking or trailer storage available on site. This means the facility is primarily designed for 'slip and go' operations, requiring the aid of a vehicle driver to manage the launch and immediate removal of the vehicle and trailer. Currently, there are no facilities in Dartmouth to park a trailer, nor can one be left at the Dartmouth Park and Ride.
Other Public Slipway Locations
Beyond Dartmouth, several other public slipways are available for use:
- Dittisham: Offers public slipway access.
- Greenway Quay: Another accessible public slipway.
- Stoke Gabriel: Provides public slipway facilities.
- Totnes: A public slipway is located downstream from Steamer Quay.
Additionally, private, chargeable launching facilities may be available by arrangement at various locations. It's always best to inquire locally for details on these private options.
Dartmouth: A Premier Cruise Destination
Beyond the practicalities of harbour dues and landings, Dartmouth stands as an exceptionally popular port of call for cruise ships and superyachts, many of which return year after year. Its glorious backdrop of the South Devon countryside, combined with the ancient riverside town's rich history, makes it a perfect spot for passengers and crew alike. Dartmouth's connections to the Crusades and the Mayflower add layers of historical intrigue that captivate visitors.
A Spectacular Arrival
The arrival into Dartmouth is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular port entries in the world. As your vessel approaches, it gracefully passes between two defending castles, marking the entrance to a narrow yet deep estuary. The ship then moors directly in the heart of the town, with the impressive Britannia Royal Naval College majestically situated on the hill above. Tendering ashore from the moored vessel is a mere minute or two journey to a modern, well-designed tender pier, ensuring a swift and comfortable transition to land.
Unique Shore Excursions
A truly unique feature of Dartmouth as a cruise destination is that most of its tours do not involve the traditional coach travel. Cruise guests consistently express delight at this refreshing change, embracing a more immersive and active exploration of the region. Guests can leave the town by steam train, riverboat, paddleboard, classic fishing trawler, or even a classic paddle steamer, offering a diverse array of experiences. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the town itself is a treasure trove.
The range of tours available is genuinely impressive, catering to a wide variety of interests. Options range from visiting Agatha Christie’s former summer home to engaging with fascinating rewilding projects. For the adventurous, there's the chance to drive a steam train, or delve deep underground into the captivating caves of the UNESCO Global Geopark. This commitment to unique, engaging, and often eco-friendly tours sets Dartmouth apart.
Independent Exploration and Moorings
Dartmouth is also a stunning place for more independent guests who prefer to explore at their own pace. It is a true shoppers' paradise, boasting almost 200 boutiques, galleries, shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, offering something for every taste. Centuries of history are palpable throughout the town; the Mayflower famously set sail from here, and the Pilgrim Fathers would undoubtedly still recognise the historic quaysides today.
Regarding vessel accommodation, existing moorings in Dartmouth can comfortably accommodate ships up to approximately 200 metres in length, though this can be dependent on tidal conditions.
Accessing the Full Cruise Guide
For cruise lines, superyacht owners, or anyone planning a larger maritime visit, a comprehensive guide to cruising in Dartmouth is available. This detailed resource provides all the necessary information for a seamless and memorable visit. To discuss individual requirements or to obtain this full guide, it is recommended to contact the Harbour Office directly. They can be reached by telephone on +44 1803 832 337 or via email at [email protected]. Their team is ready to assist with any specific needs or questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: How do I pay my Dartmouth harbour dues?
- A: Harbour dues for vessels using the River Dart can be paid either directly to a member of the River Team on the water or in person at the Harbour Office.
- Q: Are there any free berthing options for tenders and dinghies in Dartmouth?
- A: Yes, there are several walk-ashore pontoon areas, such as Mayors Avenue Pontoon, ‘Double Steps’ Pontoon, and ‘Dart Harbour Yacht Club’ Pontoon (seasonal), where tenders/dinghies (up to 4.3m LOA) can berth free of charge for short periods (e.g., up to 12 hours, 6 hours, or 2 hours respectively). Specific rules apply to each.
- Q: Where are the public slipways located in Dartmouth and the surrounding area?
- A: A public slipway is located in Dartmouth alongside the Higher Car Ferry. Other public slipways can be found in Dittisham, Greenway Quay, Stoke Gabriel, and Totnes (downstream from Steamer Quay).
- Q: Can I park my trailer at the Dartmouth public slipway?
- A: No, there is no parking or trailer storage available at the Dartmouth public slipway. It is designed for 'slip and go' use, requiring a vehicle driver to manage the launch and immediate removal of the vehicle and trailer.
- Q: What makes Dartmouth a unique cruise destination?
- A: Dartmouth offers a spectacular entrance between castles, moorings in the heart of town, and unique shore excursions that largely avoid coaches. Guests can explore via steam train, riverboat, paddleboard, or classic vessels, visiting historical sites like Agatha Christie's home or geological wonders in the UNESCO Global Geopark.
- Q: How can I obtain the full guide to cruise in Dartmouth?
- A: You can obtain the full guide and discuss your specific requirements by contacting the Harbour Office directly on +44 1803 832 337 or by emailing [email protected].
Whether you're visiting Dartmouth for a short stop in a tender or arriving on a grand cruise ship, understanding these essential guidelines ensures a more enjoyable and compliant experience. Dartmouth truly offers a memorable maritime adventure, blending historical charm with stunning natural beauty, all supported by a well-managed and welcoming harbour.
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