Welcome to Torquay, the heart of the beautiful English Riviera. This charming seaside town is a beloved port of call for cruise lines like Saga Cruises and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, offering a delightful taste of classic British coastal life.
Renowned for its mild climate, swaying palm trees, and elegant Victorian architecture, Torquay provides a relaxed and picturesque setting.
Cruise visitors are drawn to its sandy beaches, rich maritime heritage, and deep connections to the world-famous author Agatha Christie, making it a uniquely captivating stop on any British Isles itinerary.
Torquay offers a wonderful mix of history, nature, and classic seaside fun.
A must-visit is Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, a Stone Age site just a short taxi ride from the harbour, offering a fascinating journey into ancient human history.
Fans of mystery writer Agatha Christie can follow the Agatha Christie Mile, a self-guided walking tour that takes you past significant locations from her life and work, including the Princess Gardens and Pier.
For a unique perspective, head to Babbacombe Model Village, a famous attraction featuring thousands of miniature buildings and characters that capture the essence of English life.
You can also explore the historic Torre Abbey, a museum of history and art set within a beautifully restored monastery and stunning gardens, which is within walking distance of the harbour.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
A short trip from Torquay opens up more of Devon's stunning scenery and history.
Consider a journey to the picturesque port town of Dartmouth, approximately 45 minutes away by car or via the famous Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company tour, which offers a memorable experience by steam train and river boat.
Just under an hour away by train or bus is the historic city of Exeter, home to the magnificent Exeter Cathedral and ancient Roman walls.
For nature lovers, the rugged, wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park is about a 45-minute drive away and is best experienced on a guided shore excursion to navigate its vast landscape.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Cruise ships visiting Torquay do not dock at a pier but anchor in the scenic expanse of Tor Bay.
Passengers are brought ashore via tender boats, which provide a beautiful approach to the town's vibrant harbour.
The tender drop-off point is typically at Beacon Quay or Princess Pier, placing you directly in the heart of the action.
From here, the town centre, main shopping streets, restaurants, and the waterfront promenade are all immediately accessible on foot, so no shuttles are required to begin your exploration.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
The official currency in Torquay is the British Pound Sterling (GBP), often denoted by the £ symbol.
While some major tourist shops might accept Euros or US Dollars, it is not common, and the exchange rate will be unfavorable.
For the best rates, it is recommended to use local currency, which can be withdrawn from numerous ATMs found throughout the town centre.
Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Torquay is generally considered a very safe destination for tourists and is welcoming to cruise passengers exploring independently.
The main tourist areas, including the harbour, beaches, and town centre, are safe to walk around during the day.
Standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your belongings in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing.
It is safe to walk around in the evening, but as with any town, it's wise to stick to well-lit, populated areas.
Guided tours are not necessary for safety but are recommended for efficiently exploring destinations outside the town, like Dartmoor National Park.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Torquay enjoys one of the UK's mildest climates, making it a pleasant destination throughout the main cruise season from spring to autumn.
Spring (April-June) sees average temperatures of 12-18°C (54-64°F), with a mix of sunshine and showers.
Summer (July-August) is the warmest period, with temperatures typically between 18-22°C (64-72°F) and the most sunshine.
Autumn (September-October) remains mild but cooler, with temperatures around 11-17°C (52-63°F).
Regardless of the season, the weather can be changeable, so packing in layers and including a waterproof jacket is always recommended.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Torquay's town centre and harbour area are compact and best explored on foot directly from the tender drop-off point.
For destinations further afield, a reliable local bus network operated by Stagecoach covers the entire area, with routes to nearby towns like Paignton and attractions like Babbacombe Model Village.
Taxis are readily available at designated ranks and can be hailed in the street.
For a scenic journey, consider the Western Lady Ferry Service which connects Torquay with Brixham across the bay.
To visit Dartmouth, the popular Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company excursion is a fantastic option.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Shopping in Torquay offers a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and souvenir shops.
The main pedestrianized shopping area along Union Street and Fleet Street is home to well-known national retailers.
For more unique finds, explore the smaller shops around the harbour and in the Victorian-era Royal Terrace Gardens, where you can find local crafts, art, and nautical-themed gifts.
Look for local specialties such as Devonshire clotted cream fudge, local gin, and souvenirs related to Agatha Christie.
Prices in stores are fixed, and duty-free shopping is not available in the town itself.
Last updated on July 2, 2025
Explore the unique coastal scenery of the English Riviera, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its stunning cliffs, sandy coves, and palm trees. A walk along the waterfront offers beautiful Victorian architecture and relaxing sea views.
A private coastal boat tour gives you an exclusive perspective of the coastline, revealing hidden coves and dramatic rock formations. Keep an eye out for local marine life like seals and dolphins as you enjoy a personalized trip on the water.
Discover the legacy of Torquay's most famous daughter by exploring the Agatha Christie Mile. The trail highlights key locations from the author's life and novels, bringing the world of the Queen of Crime to life.
Journey back in time at Kents Cavern, a prehistoric cave system that was once home to ancient humans. It really is an incredible experience to walk through these ancient chambers and see the impressive stalactite formations.
For a hands-on experience, try a local gin making class where you'll learn about the distillation process. You can choose your own botanicals to craft a personalized bottle of gin as a unique souvenir of your day in port.
Join an award-winning walking tour to hear the story of Agatha Christie's remarkable life, rated as the best tour in Torquay. You don't need to have read her novels to be enthralled by stories of her early years and where she found inspiration for her legendary characters. Learn how she bounced back from personal and professional challenges to become the world's most successful author.
Enjoy a private and bespoke coastal adventure session, designed exclusively for your group and our guides. The experience is tailored to suit you, whether you're feeling nervous and need an extra hand or are seeking an adrenaline-packed plunge. Your guides can adapt the tour to include the biggest jumps or explore different features like the "washing machine" or sea caves.
Depart from Torquay Marina for an unforgettable 30-minute coastal trip on the 12-seater boat, Raptor. Experience astonishing acceleration combined with witty commentary from the crew as you explore the best bits of Torbay. The tour stops at secluded bays and stunning coves, with opportunities to look for wildlife along the way.
Challenge yourself with a coasteering adventure tailored to your ability on a circular route designed for maximum value. As long as you can swim and boulder, you will get to scale cliffs, explore sunken sea caves, and take leaps into stunning clear water. You'll also have the opportunity to spot an incredible array of wildlife in its natural habitat.
Embark on a fantastic coastal tour starting from the MDL Marina, where you'll cruise past exclusive motor yachts into the open sea. Your boat will hug the stunning coastline of the English Riviera, which is rich in geology and unique wildlife. Keep an eye out for our resident pod of dolphins and basking seals as you explore secluded coves and caves.
Join a slow adventure sea kayak tour with a dedicated geology and wildlife guide through the English Riviera. You will visit coves and sea caves, look for seals and dolphins, and stop on a remote beach for a swim and to toast marshmallows over a beach fire. Using stable tandem kayaks with training provided, this tour is suitable for all ages of beginners, including families with children as young as four.
Discover the art of distilling your own craft gin in Torbay's premier gin-making experience. Using a traditional copper pot still, a guide will help you create your own spirit while you enjoy complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. At the end of the session, you will take home a 500ml bottle of your very own hand-crafted gin.
Explore the wild beauty of Dartmoor on a full-day tour with pickup in a luxury, air-conditioned Mercedes. You will discover windswept moors and towering granite tors, with opportunities to walk amongst wild ponies and highland cattle. Experience the breathtaking land that inspired authors like Agatha Christie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, with both driving and walking components.
Get away from the crowds and discover the stunning views and wildlife of the coastline with a friendly and professional guide. You will explore lonely bays, spot wild birds, and with luck, see seals and even dolphins. Bring your swimming kit for a dip in the clear water or simply soak in the sunshine for a trip filled with calm and adventure.
On this walking tour, explore Exmouth's past, present, and future, from the start of the Jurassic Coast to the vibrant Exe Estuary. Hear fascinating stories from the town’s history, including tales of local pirates, smugglers, and famous residents. Your guide will also provide plenty of local recommendations for other things to see and do in town.
Join a local guide for a 2.5 to 3-hour electric bike tour through the remote and spectacular surroundings of Morwenstow, North Cornwall. The bikes help with the hilly terrain as you travel on sleepy country lanes out to the cliffs. The tour also includes a 15-minute walk to access interesting places, like a shipwreck-wood cabin built into the cliff face in the 1800s.
Explore the North Cornwall coastline with convenient pickup and drop-off in a luxury Mercedes. This tour visits beautiful little ports and breathtaking coastlines while delving into world-famous legends like that of King Arthur. You will also learn about local culture and enjoy an included Cornish Pasty and cream tea.
Enjoy a unique one-hour motorglider flight over the stunning Jurassic Coastline in a quiet and comfortable aircraft. The motorglider offers unrivalled visibility, making it perfect for taking aerial photographs of the cliffs and beaches below. As your pilot is a qualified instructor, you will even have the chance to handle the controls and fly yourself.
Embark on a totally unique flying experience, climbing to one mile above sea level using the motorglider's engine. Once at altitude, the engine will be completely shut off, turning the aircraft into a proper glider. You will then enjoy 15-20 minutes of silent, engineless flight, with the chance to soar on thermals with the birds.
If you love wine, this activity is perfect for you, regardless of your current expertise. We cater to all levels of knowledge, so you do not have to be an expert to join. Everyone is welcome to enjoy this experience.
Explore North Cornwall's beautiful and ancient scenery from the comfort of a vintage taxi. Your guide will take you to forgotten castles while sharing tales of legends and heroes from the area's history. You’ll also discover the region's role in the modern world and even learn to dowse.
Enjoy a unique 30-minute motorglider flight for a bird's-eye view of the Devonshire countryside. The quiet and comfortable aircraft offers unrivalled visibility, making it perfect for taking aerial photographs. As your pilot is a qualified instructor, you'll also have the chance to handle the controls and fly the motorglider yourself.
This unique coastal tour with included pickup travels to some of the South West's most spectacular views. You will see the famous Burgh Island with its hotel and unique sea tractor, and visit Slapton Sands to learn about its secret World War II history. The tour continues past Blackpool Sands to Dartmouth, home of the Britannia Naval College and its famous "gun castles."
Access the marine environment beyond sheltered Babbacombe Bay on a guided Taster Tour. A senior expert provides all the training you need to safely access the water in confidence, making this ideal for beginners. For more experienced paddlers, advanced options are available to raise your skill level or try a new type of craft.
Journey through Ilfracombe's history on this 45-minute self-guided walking tour through the town’s oldest areas. You will hear spine-tingling ghost stories and tales of wreckers, smugglers, and Victorian holidaymakers. See a variety of architectural styles and learn about historic figures, with your final stop at a pub dating back to the 1300s.
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On average Torquay is fairly affordable as a port of call. The chart below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Torquay. Prices are about the same throughout the year.
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