The Ark

Perfect for utterly unique group stays with your favourite people, The Ark promises a heavenly mix of salt-kissed vistas and spacious living aboard your very own luxury houseboat. Everything from the striking exterior - complete with dolphin figurehead, Flipper - to the wonderful studio speaks of whimsy on the grandest scale. Start your day with yoga in the studio, enjoy sun-soaked afternoons on The Ark’s paddleboards, and gather on the top decking for a sundowner as the skies are painted with hues of gold. With Cornwall’s idyllic south coast on your doorstep, embark on magical dog-friendly adventures along the Rame Peninsula and beyond.

As you walk along the walkway, it’s easy to be swept up in the majesty of The Ark. Towering above the harbour, this grand and utterly enchanting dog-friendly houseboat invites you to climb aboard for an adventure in your very own salt-kissed haven. The Ark is split into two halves, making it ideal for families who love to holiday together and rest apart. To the right, the Captain’s Quarters sleeps four and offers a true nautical experience. The entryway is adorned with pieces of maritime history, from oars and portholes to lovely vintage posters that celebrate life on the sea. The first bedroom you come to is The Hideout, which comes complete with captain’s hats and bunk beds, as well as a TV and comfy sofa, making it the perfect place for your little ones to rest their heads. Continuing down the hall, you’ll find the gorgeous Captain’s Room. A sumptuous king size bed with views across the harbour promises dreamy nights and golden sunrises, while a smart TV invites you to lie back in front of a relaxing show.

Before you enter the welcoming living space, take the steps up to the top deck viewing platform for sprawling views across the harbour, river, and rolling hills beyond. A pair of binoculars invites you to spot boats as they sail past, while the sofa promises a cosy spot to sit and watch the world drift by. The main living area is wonderfully spacious, with sinkable sofas offering a deliciously plush place to curl up with the pooch by your feet. Turn on the large TV for a film with the family or break out a board game as you sip something special. A lovely kitchen area boasts everything you need, including a kettle, toaster, coffee machine, air fryer, and two-ring electric hob.

Passing the bathroom (with a shower, toilet, and wash basin), head downstairs to discover one of The Ark’s most unique draws… Whether you want to unwind with some soul-soothing yoga or simply a place to chill out, the spectacular studio has something for all. Boasting yoga mats, a sofa, large TV, and pool table, there’s no end to the enjoyment on offer in this special space.
Through the studio, you’ll find the Crew’s Quarters, the second half of The Ark’s magical living space that sleeps nine lucky seafarers. Four serene Crew Cabin bedrooms (1,2,3 and 4) line the hallway, each promising a serene single bed and cosy wooden accents. Crew Cabin 5 has a sumptuous double bed, a velvety sofa, and a smart TV for tranquil mornings in bed. The lower decks are also home to a laundry room, which offers everything you need during your stay, including a washing machine, tumble dryer, two sinks, an ironing board, iron, and a clothes airer. You’ll also find three showers and two toilets. The Ark’s final bedroom lies upstairs, featuring a striking raised double bed that overlooks the beach through the charming porthole. A TV offers easy entertainment, while the plush armchair invites you to curl up with a good book. Across from the 1st Mate’s Cabin, you’ll find two additional toilets.

The kitchen is sleek and spacious, with everything you need to craft a culinary feast for friends and family, including two electric ovens, a four-ring gas hob, air fryer, ice machine, toaster, coffee machine, and a large fridge/freezer you can stock with lots of local goodies. Overlooking the harbour, the dining area invites you to dine by the dock in blissful style. Sip coffee at the breakfast bar as you plan the day’s adventures, sprawl out at the corner table over a card game or two, or gather around the banquet-style tables for a feast filled with wholesome food and laughter.

Stepping onto the decking, you’re immediately wrapped in a salt-kissed embrace, with the beautiful river views and verdant hills painting a rather special backdrop. nestle in the egg chair with a beloved book as the sounds of the tide fill the air with its song, or gather around the lovely picnic bench for some alfresco dining. Ascending to the upper decking, you’ll find another picnic bench boasting serene surrounds, five sun loungers, and six deckchairs promising glorious sun-soaked moments. Little ones will adore the bean bag, which makes for a comfy spot to sit and watch boats sail past. Inviting you to take to the water yourself, The Ark offers a selection of paddleboards and kayaks to use during your stay. Enjoy golden afternoons pottering about in the waters along the beach, or skirt the coastline for a salt-dipped adventure.

Promising idyllic moments at every turn, South Cornwall is an enchanting place to uncover during your stay on The Ark. Boasting a sublime mix of history and beauty, Mount Edgcumbe is a short drive away and offers a lovely day out for the whole family. Stroll around the manicured grounds, explore the fascinating house, and soak up the serene setting in The Orangery Garden Café as you enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. The National Trust’s Antony house is another magnificent site to uncover, with sprawling dog-friendly grounds offering a simply stunning backdrop to any walk.
A stone’s throw from the Rame Peninsula, The Ark is ideally placed for coastal forays along Cornwall’s south coast.. Whitsand Bay is famed for its 3 miles of golden sand, shouldered by sloping cliffs and lapping waves. Dog-friendly year-round, it’s a beautiful beach to enjoy with the family in tow. The charming seaside villages of Kingsand and Cawsand are also worth a visit when soaking up the sights along the Rame Head National Landscape, dotted with colourful cottages, welcoming pubs and cafés, and two idyllic beaches.
Catching a ferry across the Tamar, Royal William Yard invites you to delve into Plymouth’s cultural soul. Set within a fascinating Grade I listed military building, you’ll find something for everyone within the historic walls, from arts and crafts markets and art studios to an open-air cinema and a selection of restaurants and lounge bars. Torpoint itself boasts a number of wonderful eateries, including the fire-warmed charms of dog-friendly The Wilcove Inn.

Please take care while on board, especially accessing the upper deck due to the steepness of the stairs. Please ensure children are supervised at all times.

Read all about our wellness weekend at The Ark in our blog.