Exeter Port Authority
Encompassing the Exe Estuary, Exeter Canal and Quay
From the shoreline of Exmouth to Exeter’s historic canal and quay we welcome all watersports users and visitors who wish to enjoy one of the most beautiful and vibrant waterways in the South West of England.
The Exe Estuary extends for some 12 kilometres and plays host to an active boating and watersports community as well as being recognised as being of international importance to wildlife.
The Harbour Master staff work in partnership with Estuary users to help ensure that everyone can enjoy the water safely. We also provide a range of services including visitor moorings on the estuary and canal, boat storage facilities and mooring servicing.
A warm welcome awaits you if you want to visit for an afternoon or moor a boat with us year-round.
Boat storage
Boat storage facilities at Turf Boat Haven and Exeter’s Historic Quayside in the Exeter canal basin.
Visitor berths on Exeter Canal
Visitor berths and moorings on the Exeter Canal, from Turf Locks to the historic canal basin in Exeter.
Navigation and byelaws
Navigation guidance and byelaws for the Exe Estuary and Exeter Canal, including access, safety and pilotage information.
Notice to Mariners
Local Notices to Mariners from Exeter Port Authority covering navigation updates, hazards and marine events on the Exe.
Exeter Port Authority Marine Services
Marine services across the Exe Estuary, Exeter Canal and Quay, including moorings, storage, towing and salvage.
Feedback and incident reports
Report incidents, provide feedback or raise complaints about services on the Exeter Canal, River Exe and approaches.
Visitor moorings on the Exe Estuary
Visitor moorings on the Exe Estuary at The Bight, with short stay options for recreational and commercial vessels.
Topsham Ferry
Passenger ferry service across the River Exe between Topsham and the Exeter Canal, with seasonal timetable and fares.
River and canal fishing
Fishing on the Exeter Canal and River Exe, including permits, salmon beats and licence requirements.
Notify us of a canal or estuary event
Please tell us about your event in the Estuary, Canal, and Topsham Quay
Canal and Exe Estuary codes of conduct and safety advice
Link to the Exe Estuary codes of conduct and safety advice for leisure users
Harbour Master's office and team
The people and teams who look after the River Exe, Exe Estuary and Canal
Harbour Patrol
Harbour patrol services on the Exe Estuary providing safety guidance, assistance to mariners and enforcement of byelaws.
Fees and charges 2026/27
Fees and charges for Exeter Port Authority services, including moorings, storage, lock access and marine operations.
Canal craning and convoy
Craning and convoy dates for Exeter Canal, including booking information, timings and safety guidance for boat movements.
Weather, tides and radio checks
Weather forecasts, tide times and radio check information for the Exe Estuary and surrounding waters.
Selling boats
Guidance on selling boats within the Exeter Canal, including conditions, ownership transfer and storage agreement requirements.
Exeter Heritage Harbour
Exeter’s Historic Quayside as a designated Heritage Harbour, celebrating maritime heritage, traditional vessels and canal-based events.
Vessel for sale
Sealed bids are invited for a vessel that is for sale