Overview: Obtain a day return sailing ticket and join Simon Dell as he ventures further afield and takes walkers to the beautiful island of Lundy. We will meet at Bideford quayside at 8.00am for a. 9.00am sailing and return to Bideford quayside at 8pm. With a wonderful and diverse landscape including Puffins throughout the months of May to July, this really is a must visit. Taking the boat from Bideford, you can spend the whole day enjoying all that Lundy has to offer. Simon Dell will be leading a day’s guided walk on Lundy Island. Most sailings chosen by Simon are from Bideford Quayside and returning back to Bideford Quay, but a few other sailings advertised may involve the port of Ilfracombe. Car Parking in Bideford is available at the far end of Bideford quay in the Long Term car park at £3.00 all day. The long-term car park is situated behind the statue of Charles Kingsley and through the short term parking area. Ensure you pay at the machine clearly marked ‘Long Term’. (The all-day ticket expires at 6pm, which is the end of the charging period – so don’t panic if the boat gets back later than 6pm!).
Going from Bideford means a much longer day trip than going from Ilfracombe. The crossing takes 2 hours and we usually have about 6 hours on the island. You will find the ‘Oldenburg’ moored alongside the new Lundy Shore Office half way along the quayside and you need to be at the shore office one hour before the departure time to allow for tickets to be allocated and loading etc. It is advisable to telephone the Lundy Shore Office automated phone-line on 01271 863636 after 8pm on the evening before departure to check that the morning’s sailing is still going ahead. If the sailing is cancelled because of bad weather a decision is usually made the preceding evening and advertised on the automated message after 8pm. In such instances refunds for the ticket are given – cost per ticket is £36 for adults.
It is important to bring waterproofs and warm clothing as well as suitable walking footwear. A packed lunch and drink will be needed along with some cash because we will be visiting the Tavern and shop on the island if you wish, prior to getting back on the ship. There is a buffet on board the ship for hot drinks and hot / cold snacks. Because the guided walk will be setting out as soon as we arrive on Lundy there will be no ‘comfort stop’ until the afternoon when we arrive at the village and the Marisco Tavern where there are lavatories – so it is advisable to use the ship’s facilities prior to getting onshore
Once onshore go up to the top of the jetty ramp and we can all meet by the large wooden diving shed building to start our walk. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on the island. For those needing a Land Rover lift up to the village from the jetty simply let Simon know on the day. If there is anything specific that you would like to see while on the island do be sure to let me know and we can ensure we include it in our day’s walk. If the day trip is returning to Bideford listen out for an announcement on-board before you arrive on Lundy – regarding a ‘round the island’ trip. If the tide and weather permit, quite often on Bideford sailing days there is the opportunity to have an hour-long trip for £5 which takes you around the island with a commentary usually by Simon! before departing in the afternoon for your return journey. It’s a great way to see the island!