Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions and their answers. If you have any additional queries please contact us.

Boarding

Please check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled trip time with St. Ives Boats harbour representative Dolly in the St. Ives Boats Stand on Smeaton's Quay, Dolly will direct you to the correct boarding point. Boarding for the Little Mermaid at high tide takes place on Smeaton's quay. Boarding at low tide takes place at Rampers, where you will be transferred via our tender boat to the Little Mermaid. Sometimes you may need to remove your shoes and socks and enjoy a little paddle - depending on the stage of the tide. This is because St. Ives is a tidal port.

Children are required to wear life jackets during open water transfers but may be removed once you have boarded the Little Mermaid.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome aboard the Little Mermaid however, certain considerations need to be made:

Due to harbour health and safety policies dogs are not permitted to walk down Smeaton's quay, therefore they must be carried or you can request use of our trolley.

Depending on tide height, collection from West Pier or Rampers is also an option and dogs are able to walk as normal.

Do you have any safety equipment?

Your safety is our priority, we carry:

2 life rafts suitable to carry 18 passengers
2 life rings
Life jackets in various sizes
Flares
On-board navigation system
Fire extinguishers

Disabled Access and Toilets

Is there any disabled access and anywhere to go to the bathroom?

Accessibility within the harbour is very limited, we will do the utmost to assist our passengers where necessary. Unfortunately, there is no access ramp and boarding the boat will always involve a number of steps. For more information regarding disability access, please contact us via email or mobile to ask any questions you may have.

The Little Mermaid is equipped with a fully functioning toilet and shower with hot and cold running water.

Refunds and Cancellations

In the unfortunate event you need to cancel your booking we require 48 hours notice, we will issue a full refund up to this point. Refunds can take up to 14 working days to process due to third party providers.

In the event of poor weather / sea conditions we may be unable to operate, in this instance we will endeavour to contact you and attempt to reschedule your booking to a date suitable for you. If we are unable to do this we will process a full refund.

If you miss your trip time or don't check in on time refunds will not be given due to limited time available to refill your seats.