The Port Today

Padstow is a small commercial port situated 1.5 miles from the sea, within the estuary of the River Camel. Traditionally a fishing port and currently home to a fleet of approximately 20 inshore fishing vessels, the harbour activity has adapted to cater for the busy tourist industry with a wide range of vessels offering an array of trips to suit all would be sea goers.

Padstow Harbour Commissioners are the statutory Trust Port body, established by an Act of Parliament in 1844. The Harbour is governed by 9 elected Commissioners, 3 from each of the 3 parishes surrounding the estuary, Padstow, Rock and Wadebridge, and the Harbour Master who sits at the table as the Lord of the Manor representative, and collectively they manage both the leisure and commercial operations of the port.

The harbour is capable of handling cargo vessels up to 2000 gross tons but only accommodates bulk cargoes such as sand, roadstone etc. Padstow Harbour is a Competent Harbour Authority having being given statutory powers relating to the provision of pilotage in our waters. Pilotage is compulsory for all cargo vessels over 30 metres and those vessels over 20 metres with a draft in excess of 3.5 metres.