One of the best things about staying at Curlew Bank is how easy it is to get straight out on the water.
The sheltered cove is perfect for launching dinghies, kayaks, or paddleboards, and if you head out around the corner, the full sweep of the Helford River opens up in front of you.
At mid to high tide, you can swim straight off the beach. At low tide, the sand and shingle give way to rocky pools and mussel-covered patches that are perfect for foraging or crabbing. On a warm evening when the sea laps quietly against the wall, there’s nowhere better to take a glass of wine down and watch the light fade.
You’re very welcome to leave small boats or kayaks at the top of the beach (at your own risk), or take them up the path to store near the house—there’s plenty of space available. A private mooring is also available by prior arrangement just off the beach. It’s maintained and was refitted with a new block and chain in September 2024. Please note that it dries at very low tides and is used entirely at your own risk.
1. Sailaway St Anthony – Boat & Kayak Hire
Based just around the headland at Gillan Creek, Sailaway St Anthony offers a wide range of craft for hire:
- Motorboats – 15ft–18ft, hourly to weekly hire
- Sailing dinghies – Drascombes, Wayfarers, Toppers
- Kayaks & paddleboards – singles, doubles, SUPs
Safety kit and local advice is provided. Visit their site for up-to-date pricing and to book: Sailaway Boat Hire Rates.
2. Helford River Boats & Ferry Kiosk
Based at Helford Passage, this charming riverside hut provides:
- The foot ferry across to Helford Village
- Kayak and SUP rentals
- Crabbing lines, picnic ideas, and ice cream!
Check ferry times and tides at helfordriverboats.co.uk.
3. Helford River Sailing Club – Holiday Membership
Visitors can join as holiday members (around £70 for two weeks) and get access to the club bar, slipway, pontoons, and social events. It’s a great option if you’re bringing your own boat or just enjoy messing about on the river.
More info: Helford River Sailing Club
4. Guided Kayak Tours & Cruises
If you’d rather paddle with a guide, Koru Kayaking offers brilliant trips along Frenchman’s Creek and around the Helford. Alternatively, book a spot on the Helford River Cruise from Budock Vean Hotel for a relaxing 90-minute river trip. https://korukayaking.co.uk/
5. Diving & Snorkelling
For something more adventurous, shore diving at nearby Porthoustock opens up the Manacles Reef—a conservation zone with wrecks, kelp forests, and marine life. Check out:
- Porthkerris Divers – boat dives, kit hire, air fills
- Cornish Diving School, Falmouth
- Falmouth Underwater Centre – based at Maenporth Beach
Even from the shore, there’s great snorkelling in and around the cove—just take care of tides and currents and bring reef shoes if you’re foraging!
Whether you’re launching a kayak from the garden, cruising upriver to a pub, or diving into a kelp forest — this is one of the best places in Cornwall to get out on the water.
