Don your deck shoes – The Snark is back! Yep, if you kicked yourself for missing this unique foodie experience at Exeter Quay then kick no more, as the 84ft barge has sailed back into Exeter Quayside for its second winter season. It’s entirely run and delivered by The Snark’s owners, Paul and Qiao, who spend the summer season hosting sailing trips. And fortunately for foodies, sailing is not their only passion.

Their totally home-cooked winter menu is inspired by the European countries to which they have sailed. We’re talking winter comfort food, so if you book in for the Spanish menu, you’ll be tucking into tasty Catalan fish stews and a spicy aubergine tagine from Moorish Spain. Try the Italian menu for peasant-style trattoria, or the Beijing menu from Xiao’s homeland of China, which is unlike any Chinese you’re likely to have tasted in this country (no rice or noodles). Think a meal your grandmother might have made: a generous one, who won’t let you leave hungry! The hospitable pair also host live music nights and festive dinners, including a Christmas Lunch and a Twelfth Night in January 2025 with fun and games, and private party events for a minimum of 15. Hop on board for your Christmas party!

It’s all sharing tables, with just 20 guests max, making for a chilled and chatty vibe. Qiao is front of house, while you can see and chat to Paul while he rustles up your dishes in the open galley. We love a bit of chef theatre.

The great big, beautiful sailing barge is here from October ’24 until February ’25, so now’s the time to book (no walk ons). Your choice is a fixed four-course sharing feast on Thursday – Saturday (£45pp) or a three-course lunch on Sunday (£35). Or why not both? Muddy review coming soon, of course.