Torquay Harbour has close links with the leisure and tourism industry acting as a base for many boat trips and watersports. In addition to this, it remains a fully operational working harbour and bustling port.
The main outer harbour and Torquay Marina provide both visitor and permanent pontoon berthings. The inner harbour offers additional permanent moorings and is located behind a tidal cill. The cill wall retains the water at low tide level, preventing the harbour from drying out and therefore retaining its attractive appearance. A striking pedestrian footbridge – the Millennium Bridge – spans the entrance to the inner harbour, linking North and South Piers. The style of the bridge reflects the sails of a ship and by night it is lit up providing an eye-catching backdrop to the area.
Torquay Harbour is sheltered by two piers. Princess Pier to the west and Haldon Pier to the south. Princess Pier is a popular promenade complete with seating, and it also provides a favourable spot for anglers on the seaward side.
On the harbourside, Beacon Quay offers a selection of retail outlets, chandlers, a modern slipway facility and wider quay with improved storage for dinghies.
Additionally, the inner harbour is surrounded by a mixture of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, establishing the harbour area as the main hub of the town. The vibrant atmosphere and picturesque setting of Torquay harbour and marina provides an ideal setting for a great number of exciting activities.