Obituary: Ian Stuart – Stuart Lines Cruises

News stories are free to read. Click here for full access to all the features, articles and archive from only £8.99.

Ian Stuart, owner of Stuart Line Cruises in Exmouth, died on 3 October. Ian was a well-known CTA member and champion of coach tourism, who strongly believed in the importance of supplying a year-round service to operators and of spending as much time as possible talking directly to coach operators both individually and at events such as the CTA workshops.

Started in 1968 by Ian’s father Tony, Stuart Lines has been listed as one of the ‘top family attractions in Devon’, with boat trips sailing around the coast of Exeter, Exmouth, Torquay and Sidmouth.

Ian had been diagnosed with terminal cancer a year ago, and leaves a son Jake and a wife Philippa, who said: “Ian worked so hard for everything he had and Stuart Line Cruises will continue business as usual, as that is what he would want. We have adored welcoming coaches back to our attraction since 4 July this year and will continue to do so, come hell or high water.”

Ian Stuart, left with son Jake and his partner Lauren Clarke, in front of Stuart Lines’ flagship, the Pride of Exmouth moored in the Exeter Ship Canal. STUART LINES CRUISES