Beyond the Boat: Why it is cooler on the water to escape the Summer Heatwaves

Summer in Devon is hard to beat, but when heatwaves arrive and inland temperatures climb, finding a way to enjoy the sunshine without feeling overheated can be a real challenge. Strolling through sun-baked town centres, sitting in hot car parks, or tackling steep coastal paths in the middle of the day quickly takes the fun out of a summer afternoon.

That is why more and more holidaymakers and locals are embracing what travel experts call coolcationing – choosing days out that prioritise fresh breezes, natural cooling, and effortless relaxation over crowded, sweltering inland hotspots.

If you are looking to escape the heat this summer, here is why heading out onto the water is the most refreshing way to explore Devon.

The Natural Microclimate of the Water

There is a simple scientific reason why stepping aboard a boat provides instant relief on a scorching day: water absorbs and releases heat much more slowly than land.

While roads, pavements, and inland valleys trap radiant heat, the open waters of the Exe Estuary and Lyme Bay create their own natural microclimate. As warm air rises over the land, it draws in a constant, refreshing sea breeze across the coastline and a gentle, cooling river breeze along the estuary.

Out on the open top deck of our vessels, the ambient temperature feels noticeably fresher than on the mainland. It turns sightseeing from an exhausting, sticky chore into a truly restorative experience.

Effortless Sightseeing Without the Exertion

Exploring Devon’s world-famous landmarks on foot during a heatwave can be strenuous work. Climbing the high cliffs of the South West Coast Path or walking along exposed shorelines under the midday sun requires serious stamina and plenty of sunblock.

Taking to the water lets you enjoy the very best views of Devon with zero physical strain:

• The Ancient Red Cliffs: On our Jurassic Coast Cruise and shorter Mini Coastal Cruise, you can admire 250 million years of Triassic history towering above the sea with a steady coastal breeze keeping you cool.
• Estuary Scenery & Wildlife: A relaxing glide on our River Exe Cruise or extended Long River Exe Cruise brings you close to resident wading birds and seals along the tranquil, sheltered waters.
• Full-Day Coastal Excursions: For a complete full-day experience, our Day Trip to Torquay or Brixham gives you hours of uninterrupted sea air across Lyme Bay, dropping you right into the English Riviera without having to navigate congested holiday roads.

The Best of Both Worlds: Open Breezes and Shaded Comfort

Staying comfortable in hot weather is all about having options. All of our passenger vessels are thoughtfully designed to give you complete control over how you enjoy your cruise:

1. The Open Top Deck: Perfect for sun lovers who want panoramic 360-degree views and full exposure to the natural coastal breeze.
2. The Spacious Covered Lower Saloon: If you want a break from direct sunlight, our large lower deck offers plenty of shaded seating with large panoramic windows that can be opened wide to let the fresh sea air circulate.
3. Chilled Refreshments on Board: Every cruise features a fully licensed onboard bar serving ice-cold pints of local Bays ale, chilled Sandford Orchards cider, crisp wines, and cold soft drinks.
4. All-Weather Reassurance: British summer weather can be unpredictable. If a sudden summer shower passes through, our fully enclosed lower deck keeps everyone warm and dry without missing a single view.

Breezy Travel: Skipping the Stifling Summer Roads

Getting to Devon’s popular seaside destinations on busy summer weekends often means navigating congested roads and hunting for elusive parking spaces. Travelling by water transforms the journey into the highlight of the day.

You can set sail directly from Exmouth on our Day Trip to Sidmouth, enjoying uninterrupted sea views across Lyme Bay before landing on the beach. For a historic inland voyage, our Exeter Canal Cruise glides smoothly along the country’s oldest ship canal all the way to Exeter Quay.

Even major regional celebrations become easy to enjoy: our special Dartmouth Regatta Cruise bypasses all the notorious regatta road traffic, carrying you smoothly across the bay and up the picturesque River Dart.

Special Summer Events & Golden Hour Sundowners

Some of the most memorable summer cruises happen as the heat of the day begins to fade. As the sun dips lower in the sky, temperatures soften and the estuary settles into a calm, glassy stillness.

Our special event and evening cruises are purpose-built for unwinding after a warm day:

• Fish and Fizz: Catch the gentle evening river breeze with freshly battered fish and chips paired with a chilled glass of prosecco on our Fish and Fizz Cruise.
• Countess Wear Evening Cruise: Sail deep into the quiet, sheltered upper reaches of the river on a high spring tide aboard our tranquil Countess Wear Evening Cruise.
• Summer BBQ: Enjoy freshly prepared food hot off the grill with a cold drink from the bar on a lively Summer BBQ Cruise.

Plan Your Coolcation on the Water

Whether you are seeking a quick one-hour coastal trip or an extended day out exploring the wider Devon coast, stepping aboard offers great value, friendly service, and the freshest air in the county.

Take a look at our full Cruise Timetable to find your next refreshing trip on the water.