Visiting vessels

Visiting vessels

Welcome to Exeter’s Heritage Harbour.


We would like to accommodate different historic vessels where possible. If you have a historic vessel (on the National Historic Ships Registers or you believe to be of historic importance) and are looking to come to Exeter, start by emailing the Heritage Harbour Development Officer through the Contact Us page.

What to expect on the canal

There are two locks, and multiple swing bridges, so booking is essential. The Exe Estuary and Exeter Ship Canal is operated by the Port Authority and we work closely with them to ensure historic vessels are welcome in Exeter. We are looking into a reduced rate for historic vessels mooring on the Exeter canal - email us for updates on this.

  • Canal depth: 1.5m - 3m
  • Canal max height: 10m

Removing masts

A derrick stands at Turf Lock at the entrance to the canal. This can take up to 500kg weight. The derrick is operated by the Canal team and booking/planning is essential. To do so, email the Heritage Harbour Development Officer with your queries through the Contact Us page.

A mast removal crane is available at Topsham.

Tide Times and WeatherBoat Storage and winteringMore information
LinkLinkLink

Weed

Depending on the time of year, weed conditions vary. The harbour team are aware of it and clear it as much as possible when necessary.

Businesses on the Canal

The River

Topsham

Topsham Quay

There are mooring buoys and potential to moor at Topsham Quay.

There are transport options available to get to Exeter from Topsham including:

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Taxi
  • Cycle path
  • Ferry (to Topsham Lock, to Turf Lock, to Canal Basin: weather/season dependent)
Back to top
Exe Estuary from Turf Lock.
Topsham from Topsham Lock Gate.

The Canal

Turf Lock

Locking in at the entrance of the canal is tide dependent. The locks are operated by Port Authority staff.

LimitsNotes
<29ft wide28ft is tight
<120ft longAt 100ft we will need more info on hull shape etc.

Facilities:

  • Water
  • Electric
  • 1x toilet
  • 1x shower
  • The Turf Hotel and Pub!

Transport:

  • Taxi
  • Topsham ferry
  • Topsham to Turf Locks Ferry
  • Cycle path to Exeter
Back to top
Turf Lock image 1.
Turf Lock image 2.
Turf Lock image 3.
Turf Lock image 4.
Turf Lock image 5.
Turf Lock image 6.

The Canal

Double Lock

LimitsNotes
Entrance: <28ft widePontoon is used by watersports groups and is particularly busy through the summer.
<300ft long

Facilities:

  • Double Lock Pub!

Transport:

  • Taxi
  • Exeter to Double Lock Ferry
  • Cycle path to Exeter
Back to top
Double Lock 1.
Double Lock 2.
Double Lock 3.
Double Lock 4.
Double Lock 5.
Double Lock 6.

The Canal

Gabriel's Wharf and Regent's Wharf

Just outside of the Canal Basin.

Facilities:

  • Access for vehicles (although restricted parking)
  • Pubs, cafes, shops.

Transport:

  • Bus
  • Cycle routes
  • Taxi
Back to top
Gabriel's Wharf 1.
Gabriel's Wharf 2.
Regent's Wharf 1.
Regent's Wharf 2.
Regent's Wharf 3.
Regent's Wharf 4.

The Canal

Basin

Multiple mooring options.

Facilities:

  • Water
  • Electricity
  • Pubs, cafes, shops.

Transport:

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Cycle routes
  • Taxi
Back to top
The canal basin.
The canal basin.
The canal basin.


For more information see Exeter Port Authority.

If you are a traditional vessel owner interested in visiting the Harbour, want to be a part of the Heritage Harbour festival or want to moor in Exeter over the summer contact us below.

Contact us
Exeter City Council
Exeter Quay and Canal Trust
Exeter Custom House
Friends of Exeter Ship Canal
Heritage Harbours
Maritime Heritage Trust
National Historic Ships UK
Historic England