Torquay: Coastal RIB Seafari with Wildlife & Secret Coves

Summary

Torbay’s wild side by boat seals caves and rocky islands up close

You’ll skim across Torbay’s coastline in a fast RIB boat, watching seals bask on rocky islands and seabirds fill the sky over forbidden reserves. Your local guide shares stories as you explore hidden coves and natural arches—sometimes dolphins show up too. Expect salty air in your hair and moments that surprise you long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you see that splash?” someone shouted, just as our little RIB zipped past the first rocky outcrop off Torquay. I was still fumbling with my lifejacket (they hand them out before you even step on), but honestly, the rush of cold sea air woke me up better than any coffee. Our guide — Pete, who had that kind of dry Devon humor — pointed at a cluster of dark shapes sunbathing on a slab of rock. “That’s your seal selfie sorted,” he joked. The boat slowed so we could watch them flop around. You could smell the seaweed, sharp and greenish, mixed with engine oil and salt.

We skirted along the English Riviera’s edge, past limestone arches that looked like something out of an old pirate movie. The water slapped against the hull in uneven rhythms. Pete steered us near a bird reserve island — humans aren’t allowed to land there, which made it feel even more secret somehow. There were guillemots everywhere, their calls echoing off the stone, plus these skinny shags drying their wings like they owned the place. I tried to take a photo but mostly just ended up squinting into the wind and laughing at myself.

I didn’t expect to care much about birds or rocks before this trip — but when you’re out there, feeling the spray hit your face and hearing nothing but seabirds and distant laughter from other boats, it gets under your skin a bit. We kept hoping for dolphins (Pete said there’s a resident pod), but even without them I felt oddly content bobbing around those hidden coves. The colors of Torbay shift with every cloud; one minute it’s grey-blue steel, then suddenly bright turquoise if the sun breaks through. It’s hard to explain why that sticks with me now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Torbay coastal wildlife

• Visit seal haul out rock island
• Observe bird reserve on rock island

Top questions

How long does the Torquay coastal RIB seafari last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but most trips cover multiple wildlife spots along Torbay’s coast.

Are lifejackets provided during the tour?

Yes, every passenger is given a lifejacket for the whole trip.

Is this RIB seafari suitable for small children?

Infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Will we see dolphins on this Torquay boat tour?

Dolphins are sometimes seen—there’s a resident pod—but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Can service animals come on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transport options are nearby for easy access.

Are specialized infant seats available?

Specialized infant seats can be arranged for younger passengers.

What wildlife might we see during this RIB tour?

You may spot seals basking on rocks and many seabird species like guillemots and cormorants.

What’s included

Your outing includes use of a lifejacket throughout your coastal RIB seafari, plus guidance from a local skipper who knows all the best wildlife spots along Torbay’s shoreline—just bring yourself (and maybe a windproof jacket) for an easy start to your adventure.