Messing about on the water on The Suffolk Coast

Suffolk River Trips offers guided river excursions from three locations across Suffolk: Snape Maltings Quay, Orford Town Quay, and Woodbridge Town Steps.

During April to October, river trips departing from Snape last 45 minutes, navigating along the River Alde. Orford trips navigate downriver around the RSPB reserve at Havergate Island, passing the intriguing Orford Ness. Embark on Gina from Woodbridge Town Steps to explore the upper reaches of the River Deben, offering stunning views of Woodbridge and passing by the historic Sutton Hoo site. 

All locations explore the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape; teeming with diverse flora, fauna, and historical significance. Birdwatchers can spot various species throughout the year, including avocets, curlews, and ospreys. Common seals are often sighted near boats at Orford and Snape.

Travel along this tranquil stretch of the River Waveney on board The Big Dog Ferry. The ferry operates from the Beccles Lido pontoon and you can enjoy four leisurely 3-mile trips a day by open boat up to the Geldeston Locks.   

Big Dog Ferry is available for longer trips and pick-ups from destinations such as Beccles Quay upon request and single or round-trip tickets are also available. 

Based in Lowestoft, BlitzKiting give you the chance to learn how to kite surf and paddle board, in the beautiful surroundings of Oulton Broad and the Norfolk and Suffolk Coast. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced boarder looking to explore this stretch of the coast, BlitzKiting have courses and hire packages to suit all.

For high-octane fun there’s Coastal Voyager based at Southwold. It’s the perfect activity for all ages ranging from families with children to work groups. Providing a variety of trips to suit people with different interests, such as the exhilarating sea blast for adrenaline seekers or the peaceful river cruise for those looking to experience the outstanding natural beauty of the river Blyth.

One for the kids - children will love sailing across the lake on little paddleboats at Southwold Boating Lake. As you watch on, enjoy tea, coffee, hot chocolate and a range of cakes, pastries, lunches and light meals. Afterwards, the whole family can play a round or two of crazy golf before enjoying ice creams and a walk out through the reed beds to see some of Suffolk's rare birds. 

And if you fancy being the Captain, Oulton Dayboats will give you the chance to be skipper. No visit to Suffolk is complete without a visit to the new Broads National Park, and with Oulton Day Boats you can take your own boat out for an hour or so or a day from Oulton Broad; the southern gateway to the Broads where the river Waveney meets the sea.

Head along the River Waveney to the market town of Beccles or into Norfolk and the Roman Fort at Burgh Castle. Both routes boast a range of pubs and restaurants along the river banks where you could stop for a meal or just picnic on the riverbank.

Sailing Barge Victor is a majestic, traditionally rigged sailing barge, which has been lovingly restored and is moored at Old Customs House in Ipswich. Join one of the public cruises and enjoy a relaxing sail which departs from Ipswich Dock, passing through the lock gates and sailing down the beautiful and historic River Orwell and under the Orwell Bridge.

Alternatively, you can hire the barge for a private cruise (accommodating up to 40 people). On board, there is a licensed bar with a range of fine Adnams beers, cider and soft drinks and the Skipper is on hand to provide commentary and information on the fascinating maritime history of the area.

Step on board the purpose built vessel Waveney Princess and travel along the beautiful River Waveney from Oulton Broad. Sit on the top deck and take in the panoramic views, or head downstairs and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the coffee shop.

From April to October each year, the Orwell Lady cruises up and down the beautiful and historic River Orwell, offering passengers a choice of trips and experiences whilst taking in the beautiful wooded stretches of the river, local wildlife and points of local and historical interest.

There are a variety of cruises on offer, all leaving Orwell Quay in Ipswich and returning up to three and a half hours later. The Orwell Bridge cruise lasts approximately one hour, making it ideal for families with young children.

Throughout the year there are daytime sight-seeing cruises that can be pre-booked or just taken on the spur of the moment. There are also music nights, wine tasting, English Afternoon Tea and Sunday Buffet lunch trips.

Situated on the banks of the River Waveney in Beccles, Hippersons Boatyard offers day boats available for hire to explore the southern reach of the Norfolk Broads. Daily hire 9.30am till 4.45pm, is £100 for the day and part days are available on request. Set off along the river to Oulton Broad where you will find a choice of pubs and cafes, and the Edwardian Everitts Park. After lunch, enjoy a leisurely cruise back, travelling past the beautiful back gardens of Beccles and spotting local wildlife!

During the summer months, Hippersons also offer Twilight boat hire! Running from 5.00pm till sunset (approx 8pm -8.30pm), you can cruise to the local pub and have dinner, or bring a picnic and moor up in a secluded spot (booking required).