Welcome to Fowey, a picturesque harbor town nestled on the stunning Cornish coast of England. This charming port of call, frequented by smaller luxury lines such as Azamara and Seabourn, offers a tranquil escape from bustling cities.
Fowey's special appeal for cruise passengers lies in its rich maritime history, literary connections to author Daphne du Maurier, and the breathtaking natural beauty of its estuary. It provides an intimate and authentic taste of English coastal life, perfect for those who enjoy scenic walking, exploring quaint shops, and soaking in a peaceful atmosphere.
One of the most accessible historic sites is St Catherine's Castle, a small artillery fort built by Henry VIII to defend the harbor entrance. It's a pleasant walk from the town center and offers fantastic views over the estuary and out to sea.
For a dose of local culture, the Fowey Museum, located in the town center, provides insight into the area's rich maritime and literary history. The town is also the perfect starting point for a scenic coastal walk along the South West Coast Path, offering breathtaking views.
A major regional attraction and popular shore excursion is the world-renowned Eden Project, located about a 30-minute drive inland. These massive biomes house the largest indoor rainforest in the world and are a must-see for nature lovers.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Just a short journey from Fowey, visitors can discover more of Cornwall's charm. The quintessential fishing village of Polperro is approximately a 30-minute drive away and is known for its tightly packed houses, narrow lanes, and picturesque harbor.
Another popular excursion is to The Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the most famous botanical gardens in the UK. Located about a 40-minute drive from Fowey, this vast estate offers a fascinating mix of Victorian gardens, subtropical jungles, and ancient woodlands.
The coastal town of Looe, about 35 minutes away, is another excellent choice, offering a sandy beach, bustling fishing harbor, and a variety of shops and cafes.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Fowey is a tender port, meaning cruise ships anchor in the deep-water estuary and passengers are brought ashore by smaller tender boats. This scenic tender ride is an attraction in itself, offering wonderful views of the harbor.
The tenders typically drop passengers off at either Town Quay or Albert Quay, both of which are located directly in the heart of Fowey's town center. From the drop-off point, you are immediately surrounded by pubs, cafes, galleries, and shops. No shuttles or further transportation are needed to explore the main town, as everything is within easy walking distance.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
The official currency in Fowey is the Pound Sterling (GBP), often denoted by the £ symbol. US Dollars and Euros are not accepted for transactions, so it is necessary to use the local currency.
ATMs are readily available in the town center for cash withdrawals. Credit cards, particularly those with contactless payment capabilities, are widely accepted in most shops, pubs, and restaurants. It is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or at establishments that may not accept cards.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Fowey is considered a very safe and welcoming destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and it is perfectly safe to explore the town independently during the day. Standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas, are always wise.
The main safety considerations are related to the natural environment. The town's streets can be very steep and narrow, and coastal footpaths can be slippery when wet, so sturdy and comfortable footwear is highly recommended. There are no specific areas to avoid, as the entire town is tourist-friendly.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Fowey enjoys a mild, temperate maritime climate. During the main cruise season from late spring to early autumn (May through September), you can expect pleasant weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 21°C (60°F to 70°F).
However, the weather can be changeable, and rain showers can occur at any time of year. It is highly recommended to pack in layers, including a light sweater or fleece and a waterproof jacket, even on a sunny day. The region is not affected by a hurricane season.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Fowey itself is a compact town best explored on foot. However, be aware that many streets are narrow and steep. A local bus service, the Fowey Town Bus, operates a circular route which can be helpful for getting to the upper parts of town.
To cross the estuary to the village of Polruan, a regular passenger ferry, the Polruan Ferry, departs from Town Quay. For reaching destinations further afield like the Eden Project, pre-booked taxis or organized shore excursions are the most reliable options as public transport can be infrequent. There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft operating in the immediate area.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
Shopping in Fowey is a delightful experience focused on independent shops, boutiques, and art galleries rather than chain stores. The main shopping thoroughfares are Fore Street and Market Street, where you can wander and browse at a leisurely pace.
Look for local specialties such as Cornish crafts, nautical-themed homewares, regional foods like Cornish fudge and gin, and original artwork inspired by the beautiful coastline. You'll find a great selection of unique souvenirs and gifts. Prices are generally fixed and bargaining is not a common practice.
Last updated on July 3, 2025
A visit to The reveals one of Cornwall's most celebrated and iconic destinations, a world-renowned garden estate. You will wander through a breathtaking landscape of romantic Victorian gardens, lush sub-tropical jungles, and unique sculptures. It is an unforgettable experience of horticultural wonder and natural beauty.
The Private excursion offers a bespoke journey through Cornwall, tailored completely to your interests. Enjoy exclusive access to hidden coves, artisanal food producers, or historic manors with your own personal guide. This is the perfect choice for a truly unique and intimate look at the region.
An absorbing tour immerses you in the rich tapestry of Cornish history and literary lore. Follow in the footsteps of famous authors and explore the atmospheric fishing villages that inspired their tales. This excursion brings the region's dramatic past, from smuggling to mining, to life.
For those seeking authentic Cornwall, the We will take our customers to places that most tour is ideal. This adventure ventures away from the typical tourist trails to reveal secluded beaches, ancient stone circles, and charming hamlets. You will experience the county's wild, unspoiled beauty and meet the local characters who define it.
The Highly Varied Full Day excursion is a comprehensive sampler of Cornwall's greatest hits. This tour packs in a diverse itinerary, from the dramatic coastal scenery of the cliffs to the grandeur of a historic castle. You may also explore a famous garden or enjoy a traditional Cornish cream tea for a complete one-day experience.
Whether you're a beginner or want to improve your technique, take a surfing lesson at Widemouth Bay in Bude with an experienced instructor. In a small group setting allowing for personal attention, you will gain the skills and confidence to get up on your board and ride the waves. All equipment is included for your two-hour session.
Join a passionate local guide, a former teacher, for a comprehensive one-day tour steeped in Cornish history and culture. This circular tour of West Cornwall explores the North Coast, South Coast, and the wild Atlantic, offering a true perspective on what it's like to live here. You'll discover numerous points of interest, some viewed from the vehicle and others just moments away, gaining a vibrant understanding of the region.
Experience a thrilling coasteering session with OA Surf Club, whose team discovered the routes at Bossiney over 25 years ago. With the most experienced team in the area and a focus on high safety standards, you’ll be in the best hands possible. Let enthusiastic coaches guide you through one of the best adventure experiences Cornwall has to offer.
Explore the hidden side of Cornwall by venturing down smaller roads and discovering the region's quieter places. This tour balances visits to popular attractions with a unique look at the inner beauty and charm of this magical county. Let your guides show you firsthand what makes Cornwall so special.
Join your guide, Becky, for an exclusive private tour of West Cornwall for you and your traveling companions. Visit the UK's most westerly point, take in ancient Cornwall at The Merry Maidens stone circle, and admire the region's unparalleled coastline views. Your full Cornish experience even includes a classic crab sandwich or pasty and a delicious cream tea.
Join a passionate local guide, a former teacher, for a private, full-day tour exploring the beautiful areas of North Cornwall. This absorbing journey delves into beaches, ancient harbours, and monasteries, giving you a deep insight into Cornish culture, customs, and folklore. Discover numerous points of interest, with an optional opportunity to walk a small section of the South West Coast Path for spectacular views.
Embark on a captivating journey into the enchanting world of the lost mines of Cornwall, brought to life by the iconic Poldark series. This exclusive Poldark tour is your ticket to step back in time and immerse yourself in the area's rich history. Discover the breathtaking landscapes and dramatic tales that have captivated audiences around the world.
Explore some of the UK's most beautiful scenery with your guide Chris in his vintage taxi. Journey through an incredibly old landscape, visiting forgotten castles and hearing tales of legends and heroes. You'll also learn about North Cornwall's modern-day role and even get a chance to learn how to dowse.
Come exploring West Cornwall on a private tour with your guide Chris in Glenys, his 30-year-old British taxi. You will visit ancient churches, a stone circle where you can learn to dowse, a prehistoric fogou, and an abandoned bronze age village. The tour moves at your own pace, taking in seaside towns and fascinating mining heritage while you hear stories and songs of Cornwall's rich culture. This customizable tour also includes plenty of time for souvenir and ice cream shopping.
Explore the hidden side of Cornwall by venturing down smaller roads and discovering quieter places. This tour balances visits to popular attractions with an intimate look at the inner beauty and charm of this magical county. Let your guides show you firsthand what makes Cornwall so special and unique.
Experience the mesmerizing allure of Cornwall’s captivating north coast on a private sightseeing tour. This picturesque coastal journey takes you from St Agnes to Tintagel. Prepare to be enthralled by the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits you along the way.
Join a knowledgeable guide for a walking tour of Port Isaac, focusing on the filming locations from "Doc Martin" and the "Fisherman's Friends" movies. You'll see key sites like Doc Martin's surgery, the village pub, and the Platt where the famous sea shanties are sung. The tour also visits the tiny coves of Port Quin and Port Gaverne, which also feature as filming locations.
Join qualified instructors to coasteer along a stunning and unique stretch of the North Cornwall coastline. Your adventure will be tailored to your group's ability as you swim through huge sea caves, explore wildlife-rich rock pools, and take a leap from one of the many jump sites. All safety equipment is provided, but participants must be over 10 and able to swim 50 meters unaided.
Try Stand Up Paddleboarding, a fantastic and fast-growing sport, on the waters of Bude. The large, stable paddleboard and long paddle make it easy to be motoring around in only a few minutes. As it's less challenging than surfing, SUP is an accessible activity perfect for families, friends, and large groups.
Explore the coastal town of Looe, the real-life filming location for the acclaimed series "Beyond Paradise," on this 1.5-hour walking tour. Follow the journey of the show's characters as you visit notable spots like the Guildhall, which became the police station, and the operational fish market. Your guide will share anecdotes about the show's production while revealing the area's fascinating history and culture.
Described by many as the best attraction in North Cornwall, this is a must-do activity with over 200 five-star reviews. It offers great fun for the whole family, groups of friends, or couples. Slip into a wetsuit if you like and launch yourself off the ramp down the awesome 100-meter monster slide.
Learn to surf with the longest-running surf school in Widemouth Bay, which prides itself on safety and experienced coaches. Your fun-filled session takes place on a beautiful, blue-flag beach that is lifeguarded by the RNLI. The sandy beach offers great conditions for beginners, as well as more challenging peaks for intermediates to practice their skills.
Embark on a tour that promises to take you to places most other companies won’t. This tour aims to provide a unique and exclusive experience of Cornwall's hidden corners. Discover the region with a company that strives to offer the best tour possible.
Discover Cornwall's hidden gems with this self-guided tour and treasure hunt experience on your smartphone. Using GPS technology, you'll go off-the-beaten-track to explore over 100 destinations, solve clues, and complete challenges at your own pace. This kid-friendly activity is great for avoiding crowds, and a single value ticket covers your entire group.
Take a leisurely two-hour trip in Glenys, a beautifully restored vintage taxi, through the breathtaking North Cornish countryside and spectacular coastline. Amble along narrow lanes and through tiny hamlets before heading toward Bodmin Moor for a stop in a hidden glade. Here you will be served a choice of tea or coffee with fresh Cornish splits, scones with clotted cream, and traditional saffron cake.
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Prices are about steady throughout the year. Overall Fowey is moderately expensive as a port of call. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Fowey.
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