Lundy Island (England)

Lundy Island is the biggest in Bristol Channel, with total area approx 4,5 km2 (1,7 mi2). It is approx 19 km (12 mi) off the coast of Devon (England, Torridge district) and about 1/3 the distance across Bristol Channel from Devon to South Wales. The island is named after a sea area in Britain designated as "national character area 159" by NaturalEngland (UK Government adviser).

In 2007, Lundy Island had resident population of just 28 people, including volunteers (warden, ranger, farmer and island manager), as well as house-keeping and bar staff. Most live in the port village located at the southourn coast. Most visitors are day-trippers, though there are a total of 23 holiday properties and a camping site for overnight tourists.

The island is England's first statutory Marine Nature Reserve and the first-ever Marine Conservation Zone, featuring unique flora and fauna. The island is managed by The Landmark Trust (1965-founded UK building conservation charity) on behalf of National Trust (UK conservation organization).

Experienced and properly equipped canoeists can enjoy seakayaking to Lundy Island from Lee Bay or Hartland Point. This takes 4-6 hours, depending on tides and wind.

There are two ways for accessing the island, depending on the time of year.

During summer (April through October) tourists arrive on Landmark Trust's ship MS Oldenburg (IMO 5262146) departing from 2 homeports - Ilfracombe and Bideford. Crossings are usually 3 days per week, with departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Additional cruises (in July and August) are offered on Wednesdays. Travel time is ~2 hours, depending on tides, weather and ports. The 1958-built ship Oldenburg cruises to Lundy Island since 1985.

During winter (November through March), the ship is out of service. During winter, Lundy is served by regularly scheduled helicopter service from Hartland Point (the western limit of Bristol Channel). Departures are on Mondays and Fridays, with flights between 12-noon and 2 pm.

Lundy Island cruise terminal