{"id":16242,"date":"2017-09-14T07:14:18","date_gmt":"2017-09-14T06:14:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.coastandcountry.co.uk\/?p=16242"},"modified":"2023-11-09T12:55:06","modified_gmt":"2023-11-09T12:55:06","slug":"enjoy-the-salcombe-kingsbridge-estuary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.coastandcountry.co.uk\/blog\/enjoy-the-salcombe-kingsbridge-estuary","title":{"rendered":"10 ways to enjoy the Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary"},"content":{"rendered":"

With its pristine waters, numerous beaches and delightful creeks, the Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary is one of the region\u2019s great attractions, and there are several ways to make the most of it during your stay in South Devon.<\/p>\n

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The Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary is a drowned river valley or \u2018ria\u2019, unusual in the fact that it\u2019s not fed not by a large river but by several small streams. It\u2019s a haven for wildlife as well as holidaymakers alike, and it\u2019s always worth keeping an eye out for rare birds and marine animals around the estuary.<\/p>\n

During the regattas and race days, the harbour fills with sailing boats but there\u2019s always something happening on the water, and plenty of places to stop and watch the world go by.<\/p>\n

Here are ten ways to make the most of the Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary during your time in South Devon.<\/p>\n

1. Rib-riding<\/h2>\n

Stylish ribs skimming along on the sparkling waters of the estuary are a familiar sight from Salcombe and the nearby coastline, and there\u2019s no shortage of ways to get on board one. These range from speedy or slow-and-steady tours with local companies like Sea \u2018n\u2019 Shore to purchasing your own vessel.<\/p>\n

Wolf Rock<\/a>, based conveniently in Churchstow\u2019s South Hams Business Park, offers the full range of marine services, including rib sales, engine service and repair, storage, launch and recovery. For residents and regular visitors who love to get on the water, rib piloting or riding is at the very least a must-try activity \u2013 although be warned, lots of people become quickly hooked!<\/p>\n

2. A guided sailing tour with Scratch<\/h2>\n

Having been around the world five times by the age of 19, East Portlemouth-born Bill \u2018Scratch\u2019 Hitchen has many a tale to tell. There\u2019s no better guide to the estuary than Scratch, a friendly and hugely experienced sailor, who\u2019s even happy to let your dog jump onto his Salcombe Yawl as you enjoy a sailing lesson, a guided tour, or a little bit of both.<\/p>\n

\"Scratch<\/p>\n

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Find out more about Scratch\u2019s yawl and launch hire and tuition here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

3. Make a splash with a spot of coasteering<\/h2>\n

\"Team<\/p>\n

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Coasteering is quickly growing in popularity, and there are two companies in Salcombe providing this thrilling activity, which combines swimming, climbing and jumping into the water. Take a rib ride out of Salcombe with Adventure South or Sea \u2018n\u2019 Shore to find a coastal spot, or meet up with the former at South Sands to have a go at coasteering within the estuary itself.<\/p>\n

4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding and kayaking<\/h2>\n

\"#SummerinSalcombe\"<\/p>\n

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Slightly more relaxed activities are stand-up Paddleboarding and kayaking, both of which are popular in the estuary, thanks to its calm water and glorious scenery. Hire equipment from Sea Kayak Salcombe at South Sands, who also provide lessons and guided tours involving both sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks.<\/p>\n

See more at: http:\/\/southsandssailing.co.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n

5. Wine and dine at the water\u2019s edge<\/h2>\n

You can appreciate the estuary without getting on or in the water of course, and one of the best ways to do this is with a waterside meal. There are so many wonderful options to choose from, including:<\/p>\n