Summer is a magical time in Cornwall. Along the banks of the Helford, the trees are in full bloom, forming a rich tapestry of deep green that snakes down to the water’s edge. Tucked away in the creeks, you’ll find one of the UK’s rare temperate rainforests—lush, ancient woodlands thriving thanks to mild summers, wet winters, and the region’s coastal climate.
This unique landscape—where ancient oak woods meet peaceful waterways—offers a softer, more tranquil side of Cornwall. It’s a haven for birdlife, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, and the river itself—technically a drowned valley formed after the Ice Age—is home to more than 80 species of fish. On calm days, look closely and you might spot them darting beneath the surface.
Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional seal or even a dolphin cruising through the deeper channels. With its mix of salt and freshwater, the Helford provides the perfect environment for a diverse range of wildlife.
Why not come and see what you can spot on a Helford River Cruise this summer?
Herons
With a wingspan reaching up to 195cm, the majestic grey heron is a true highlight of the Helford. Their colourful beaks and legs make them easy to spot as they hunt along the riverbanks—just be mindful of the nesting areas along Polwheveral Creek.
A Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) soars gracefully over a serene water body, its expansive wings fully extended, showcasing the bird’s impressive wingspan.
Little Egrets
Equally captivating are the little egrets, whose brilliant white plumage has lit up our skies since they arrived in significant numbers in 1989. Whether migrating or staying year-round, they’re a delight against the backdrop of ancient oak trees.
Little Egret wading in Port Navas Creek, Helford River
Kingfishers
Kingfishers, with their vivid blue and russet wings, are a rarer sight in spring. They’re usually busy nesting along the riverbanks and might make a more frequent appearance in the autumn—but don’t lose hope; a fleeting glimpse is always a special treat.
Kingfisher perched looking for it’s next fish on Frenchman’s Creek
Cormorants and Shags
Much like along St Agnes, keep your eyes peeled for cormorants and shags around the Helford. These agile birds often use nearby buoys as drying spots after a successful dive, showcasing their impressive underwater skills.
Cormorant perched on the banks of the Helford River
Curlews
Listen for the haunting call of curlews as they blend into the serene coastal backdrop, their long, curved beaks a striking contrast against their mottled feathers.
Oyster Catchers
Whilst there’s plenty of oysters for these birds to catch on the Helford, they prefer to eat mussels and cockles. It’s distinct red bill, pink legs and black and white feathers make it a stunning bird to see and it’s distinct high pitch tweets mean you hear it sometimes before you see it.
Common Seals
And while seals aren’t permanent residents of the Helford, these playful, curious creatures can often be seen trailing after a fish or even a fishing boat, adding an extra dash of excitement to your cruise.
Common Seal on the Helford River. Cornwall
Dolphins
Dolphins have been spotted frolicking just off Trebah Gardens beach on a couple of occasions in the last few years and once a customers pointed out a fin just before Frenchman’s Creek. ‘A shark’ she said. I smiled, no sharks here, but then it was a dolphin! Such beautiful aquatic mammals that belong to the infraorder Cetacea. Highly intelligent, social, and charismatic animals and a joy to see when we encounter them on our boat trips, so keep your eyes peeled!
Dolphins frolicking in the Helford
Fish
There are over 80 species of fish in the Helford River, including mackerel, sea bass, bream, sardines, and pilchards, to name just a few. On calm days—especially if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses—you might be lucky enough to spot them more easily, particularly along the creeks.
Smaller fish are often seen leaping from the water, chased by something larger beneath the surface. It’s also bluefin tuna season, which is a relatively new and exciting development for Cornwall. These impressive fish are enormous—larger than common dolphins—and we had a fantastic sighting off Trebah Beach last autumn.
So keep your eyes and ears peeled—you never know what you might spot. One lady even thought she’d seen a shark when a fin appeared gliding through the water near the creeks. It turned out to be a dolphin!
Ready for Your Boat Trip?
With cruises running 7 days a week, there’s never been a better time to explore the stunning Helford River and its historic creeks, rich in wildlife and natural beauty.
Join us this summer on a Helford River Cruise and experience nature at its very best—from ancient oak woodlands to playful seals and darting fish beneath the surface.
Private charters are also available for up to 12 people—perfect for families, celebrations, or a peaceful trip with friends.
Book your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
🌿 Embrace the season. Respect the wildlife. Let the adventure begin! 🚤
