ST IVES BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Take the Wheel on St Ives Bay: Self‑Drive Boats for All Ages
A concise guide to St Ives Boat Rides' Yellow & Red self‑drive boats — what to expect, safety features, and practical details for runs that last from half an hour to an hour.
Take the Wheel on St Ives Bay: Self‑Drive Boats for All Ages.
The Yellow & Red self‑drive boats put the St Ives coast in your hands: small, easy‑to‑handle craft that let families, first‑timers and even dogs glide around the bay under the watchful eye of experienced staff and patrol skippers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Close‑up views of the St Ives shoreline
The self‑drive rides are designed to put you on the water so you can see the beauty of the St Ives coast from sea level — an intimate coastal perspective that’s quick to access and highly memorable.
Simple, safe handling for every skill level
Boats come with steering wheels and 6hp outboard motors; they seat up to six people (four adults maximum) and are supplied with life jackets and a short driving tutorial so no prior experience is required.
On‑water patrol and local expertise
Waterside staff assist boarding and provide instruction, and patrol boats staffed by experienced, RYA‑qualified skippers monitor outings for safety.
What the day feels like
What it Feels Like to Drive Around St Ives
These short self‑drive runs — from a brisk half hour to a relaxed hour — funnel the pace of a coastal outing into a hands‑on experience: staff walk you through boarding and controls, you take the helm of a compact craft with a steering wheel and 6hp outboard, then set out under the watch of patrol boats to circle the bay and return to the kiosk.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this outing — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trips run from half an hour to one hour; you must arrive at the ticket kiosk at least 15 minutes before your departure time.
Each boat seats up to 6 persons, with a maximum of 4 adults per boat.
Life jackets are supplied for every person and for dogs; a short tutorial on driving the boat is included and waterside staff will assist boarding.
If you plan to rent more than two boats, you are asked to call the operator in advance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the self‑drive rides?
Rides are offered from half an hour up to one hour.
Do I need previous boating experience?
No experience is required — staff provide a driving tutorial, the boats have steering wheels for simple handling, and patrol boats monitor outings.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes — dogs are allowed and life jackets for dogs are provided.
How many people fit on a boat?
Each boat seats up to six people, with a maximum of four adults.
What safety equipment and supervision are provided?
Life jackets are supplied for everyone, waterside staff assist boarding and instruction, and patrol boats crewed by experienced, RYA‑qualified skippers patrol the area for safety.
Can I hire a boat for fishing?
Yes — boats can be hired for a few hours for fishing; prices are available on request and terms apply.
When should I arrive before my departure time?
You must arrive at the ticket kiosk at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.