Is there a direct bus?

No, you must change at Kingsbridge.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Yes, but the hills are very steep.

Is the ferry open all year?

No, it operates seasonally from spring to autumn.

Where is the best parking?

The Dartmouth Park and Ride is the most convenient option.

Salcombe

Dartmouth

Driving Ship

Salcombe to Dartmouth

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Salcombe to Dartmouth covers approximately 15 miles through the scenic South Hams. While driving takes about 45 minutes via the A379, the most iconic route involves the South Sands Ferry and local bus connections. You will traverse narrow, winding Devon lanes that offer stunning estuary views. Public transport is limited, making private vehicles or seasonal ferries the preferred choice. This route is a highlight of the South West Coast Path region.

Total Distance: 24 km driving distance, 12 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A379 is the fastest, typically taking 45 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for groups.

Compare Salcombe to Dartmouth Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	45 minutes	1 hour
Avg Price	5-10 GBP fuel	10-15 GBP
Operator	N/A	South Sands Ferry
Route	A379 via Kingsbridge and Slapton Sands.	Coastal water route between Salcombe and Dartmouth.
Tip	Be prepared for very narrow roads; use passing places.	Check tide times as services are weather-dependent.

Travel Tips

Road Width
Devon lanes are notoriously narrow; fold your wing mirrors.
Ferry Status
Always check the ferry website before departing as high winds cancel sailings.
Parking
Dartmouth parking fills up quickly; use the Park and Ride at the town entrance.
Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to walk sections of the coast path.
Connectivity
Mobile signal is patchy in the valleys; download offline maps.

Safety Tips

Coastal Cliffs
Stay on marked paths to avoid unstable cliff edges.
Tidal Awareness
Check tide tables if walking near the shoreline.
Emergency
Keep a physical map as GPS can fail in deep valleys.
Driving
Watch for tractors and livestock on rural roads.