A few years ago, you would have been lucky to spot avocets anywhere, but today - a conservation success story.

The Exe Estuary in winter is one of the best places in the UK to get great views of avocets. With their black-and-white plumage, and slender, curved bills, you can’t miss them especially a flock of up to 500 when they’re sweeping the mud to search for tasty morsels. Every winter, over 40,000 birds, including hundreds of black-tailed godwits, Brent geese and red-breasted mergansers, flock to the Exe Estuary from as far a field as Siberia and Greenland.

With expert commentary on each cruise, you'll learn something new and exciting about the Exe Estuary and its residents.

A mini avocet cruise takes lasts 1-1.5 hours and the next one is on Sunday 10 February at 1pm. Adults £11, child (under 13 years) £4. Booking essential

There are full avocet crusies on Friday 8 February at 11am and Saturday 9 February at noon. Adult £14, child (under 13 years) £7. Booking essential

The Exe Estuary can be a very cold place in winter, so please bring extra warm clothing and waterproofs.

Full cruises depart from Starcross. The mini cruises depart from Topsham. You are advised to check website or call to confirm times as there may be tidal variations on all cruises as all trips are tidal dependent.

Expert commentary is provided on all the cruises. The boats are partially covered and have a toilet. For more information and details of prices telephone: RSPB South West Regional Office on 01392 432691 or visit the website.

Booking Conditions:

PLEASE NOTE: In extreme weather conditions it may be necessary to cancel a cruise on the day of departure. All bookings are accepted on this basis. In the event of such a cancellation, a full refund of the ticket price will be made or the booking transferred to an alternative sailing by mutual agreement. Although every effort will be made to sail, the final decision will remain with the skipper of the boat.

A recorded message detailing latest sailing and weather information will be available prior to every cruise on 01392 453770.