Six Hours Afloat: Sail Plymouth Sound Up the Rivers Lynher and Tamar

PLYMOUTH SAILING FIELD GUIDE

Six Hours Afloat: Sail Plymouth Sound Up the Rivers Lynher and Tamar

A full-day, 6-hour voyage aboard Bounty that moves from naval waterways into the quiet reaches of the Tamar Valley—this guide explains the route, activities, and practicals to make the most of the trip.

Six Hours Afloat: Sail Plymouth Sound Up the Rivers Lynher and Tamar.

Duration
6 hours
Location
Plymouth
Operator
Sport Environment
Category
Sailing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

This full-day sailing excursion leaves Mount Batten and carries you across Plymouth Sound and upriver into the quieter Rivers Lynher and Tamar. The voyage combines coastal landmarks with sheltered river channels, offering stops for swimming, paddleboarding and short shore visits that let groups and families slow down and explore the Tamar Valley’s quieter corners.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

From Plymouth Sound into the Tamar Valley

The sail starts from Mount Batten and moves through Plymouth Sound before heading upriver into the Lynher and Tamar, giving a mix of coastal exposure and sheltered river cruising that reveals different faces of the area.

THE ACTIVITIES

Swim, SUP and Shore Stops

The itinerary includes opportunities to wild swim and paddleboard in calm river waters and to step ashore during a planned stop, allowing time to stretch, explore or grab refreshments.

THE SETTING

Naval Landmarks and Quiet Estuary

The voyage passes notable naval and coastal landmarks on the approach, then shifts into the stillness of the Tamar Valley’s southern reaches—an experience framed by both seafaring history and tranquil river landscape.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Over a six-hour day aboard Bounty you check in at Mount Batten, brief and depart, passing naval points on the Sound before easing into the calm of the Lynher and Tamar. The pace is deliberately unhurried—time for swimming, paddleboarding or simply watching the riverbanks pass—culminating in a shore stop at either Royal William Yard or Mount Edgecumbe Country Park before the return to Mount Batten.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this day on the water suits—and who should check requirements first.

1
Families & GroupsThe trip is described as suitable for families and groups, providing a relaxed full-day sail with activities that accommodate mixed-ability parties.
2
Active Day TrippersThose who want a mix of sailing, swimming and paddleboarding will find a full six hours to explore both open sound and calm river reaches.
3
Nature SeekersAnyone looking to escape the bustle and spend time in quieter estuary environments will appreciate the river exploration and shore stops.
4
Guests with Mobility ConsiderationsThere are no general onboard restrictions, but the operator asks that you discuss any specific mobility requirements with them before booking so they can advise on suitability and any accommodations.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & Timing

This is a full-day, six-hour sailing trip that departs from Mount Batten; please allow time to park and check in (5–10 minutes is suggested).

What to Bring

Bring a warm jacket, waterproof trousers (advisable), sun protection, soft shoes (trainers ideal), cards/money in case of a refreshment stop, a water bottle, packed lunch and snacks.

Meeting Place

Meet at Mount Batten Centre, 70 Lawrence Road, Plymouth, PL99SJ; check-in is at the Bounty & Hope Boat Club, located about 50m along the South West Coast Path from the Mount Batten Watersports Centre.

Booking & Changes

Bookings can be amended online via your booking or by contacting the operator directly.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Where do we check in?

Please come to the Bounty & Hope Boat Club, located 50m along the South West Coast Path from the Mount Batten Watersports Centre.

How early should we arrive?

Allow enough time to park and check in; 5–10 minutes should be sufficient.

Where is the meeting location?

The meeting location is Mount Batten Centre, 70 Lawrence Road, Plymouth, PL99SJ.

Can we buy merchandise?

Yes. A selection of Bounty & Hope merchandise is available from their online store at https://bountyandhope.teemill.com/.

Can we amend our booking?

Yes. You can amend your booking online or email the operator to make changes.