Falmouth and Helford River Cruise – Fri 16th Oct – Mon 19th Oct 2026

Discover the beauty of Cornwall’s southern coast on this delightful autumn break, combining Falmouth’s maritime charm with a scenic river cruise through one of England’s most enchanting waterways. Based at the elegant Royal Duchy Hotel on Cliff Road, perfectly positioned overlooking Falmouth Bay, you’ll enjoy three nights of classic Cornish hospitality.

DAY ONE – FRIDAY – Travel to Cornwall with a comfort stop en route. Arrive in historic Tavistock around 12:30pm for lunch and time to explore this charming market town on Dartmoor’s edge. Continue to Falmouth to your hotel, check in, and enjoy your evening meal.

DAY TWO – SATURDAY – Free day to discover Falmouth at your own pace. You may like to explore the bustling harbour, visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, discover Tudor Pendennis Castle, browse the town’s independent shops and galleries, or stroll along golden Gyllyngvase Beach. Return for the evening meal.

DAY THREE – SUNDAY – The highlight of your break – a magnificent two-hour-fifteen-minute Helford River Cruise. Glide along this peaceful, mystical waterway, discovering wooded creek-side villages, spot wildlife including herons and seals, pass the famous Frenchman’s Creek immortalised in Daphne du Maurier’s novel, and admire historic oyster beds and picturesque anchorages. If weather conditions are unsuitable, you’ll enjoy the equally beautiful Fal River Cruise instead. Return for the final evening meal.

DAY FOUR – MONDAY – After breakfast, journey home via Morwellham Quay – an award-winning Victorian port and living museum on the River Tamar. Explore the Georgian port, browse the Victorian village, and enjoy lunch at The Ship Inn. IMPORTANT: Lunch NOT included – if you want lunch, then pre-orders are required. Select from the MENU CLICK HERE when booking the trip. When you go to the Ship Inn for your lunch you will have a voucher stating  “Vale Coaches”and the name you booked it under, just hand that in ,and then pay for your order and enjoy your lunch. Arrive back in Blackmore Vale early evening.

Includes:

• Return travel
• Three nights dinner, bed and breakfast, Royal Duchy Hotel, Falmouth
• Helford River Cruise (or Fal River alternative)
• Time in Tavistock and Morwellham Quay
• Complimentary drinks on coach