The Salcombe Harbour Launches patrol the estuary throughout the year. They are easily recognisable, white with blue fendering and marked ‘Harbourmaster’. During the busy season (May – September) there is a launch on the water from 07:30 to 23:00. A listening watch is maintained on VHF Channel 14.

The boatmen are responsible for managing waterborne activities, enforcing harbour byelaws and the berthing of visiting boats. They will provide any assistance and advice they can to ensure that residents and visitors alike enjoy trouble free use of the estuary.

The Harbour also has a night security patrol operated by a private company.