Get out on the water!

Crab Fishing on the South Embankment is a hugely-popular pastime, particularly with younger visitors to Dartmouth. Crab lines and buckets can be bought from the various shops around the boat float, and Pillars on Lower Street. A bit of bacon or old fish will suffice as bait. Please handle crabs carefully and return them to the water.

Paddle boarding is a great way to see the town and coastline from a different perspective. Visit the Paddle Shack kiosk on the South Embankment for stand-up paddle boarding tuition with ASA-certified instructors, or contact Lanny 07859 997126.

Or if you would prefer sitting down there is kayak hire with local instructors that can also include lunch on a beach. All clothing such as wetsuits and windproof tops are provided.  Contact Tim on 01803 832663 – www.dyc.org.uk

A more traditional pastime on the river is sailing. Slightly further up the Dart at the village of Dittisham, the Marshall Sailing School offers experienced RYA instructors for tuition for both adults and children. The river at Dittisham is considerably quieter and more sheltered, perfect for sailing training. Call 07973 520515.

Also in the village of Dittisham – Dittisham Boat Hire offers a choice of motor boats and sailboats to rent, as well as kayaks and standup paddle boards – all available at an hourly rate. Visit dittishamboats.co.uk

If motorised transport is more your thing, Dartmouth Boat Hire offers boat hire with vessels that carry up to eight people. Hire by the hour, visit the kiosk on the embankment, or visit dartmouth-boat-hire.co.uk

Perhaps a thought for a future stay as they book up quite quickly. The Banquet Boat lets you cruise the enchanting River Dart while enjoying locally-sourced food and fine wine. Whether you want an intimate romantic cruise or to share the experience with family and friends, you can savour the time aboard in comfort surrounded by the beautiful oak tree-lined riverside and leave your cares behind. Visit thebanquetboat.co.uk/