Cruise further, cruise safer: tackling the beautiful coastline from Poole to Penzance

Published: 18 Jul 2025
Join adventure-seeker Simon Ellis on his thrilling three-month sabbatical travelling from Poole to Penzance, stopping at every bay, harbour, and marina along the way.

Imagine the thrill of a coastal cruise, every day a new chapter in the diary of a lifelong love for the sea. This was just the case for Simon Ellis, who used his sabbatical to traverse the picturesque sea route between Poole and Penzance. Each day brought fresh sea breezes, lungfuls of salty air and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Join Simon as he tours every bay, marina, and harbour on his way to the majestic Scilly Isles.

On their 16th day, Babbacombe Bay welcomed them with sun-soaked serenity, prompting the decision to spend the day and night at anchor. The joy on deck was infectious, with laughter and banter permeating the sea air, while sipping on sundown drinks at the Cary Arms. However, the chilliness of the water kept their swimming ambitions at bay.

The following day, the crew made its way back to Torquay, following a breakfast fit for kings. As they strolled through Paignton, they admired the unrivalled views from the terrace of the Redcliff Hotel. Back at the marina, they witnessed the nurturing instincts of swans tending to their clutch of eggs, adding to the beauty of their surroundings.

Day 18 brought more sunshine and an easterly swell, leading them to explore Brixham, adding another gem to their coastal treasure trove. The sea, however, remained unfit for a dip. On the cards for the day were activities that ranged from stand-up paddleboarding to onboard Thai culinary sessions, rounding off yet another day of their life-affirming journey.