STUART Line Cruises has been recognised as one of the best cruise operators after reaching the finals of a national competition.

STUART Line Cruises has been recognised as one of the best cruise operators after reaching the finals of a national competition.

The family-owned company, famous for carrying more than 150,000 people a year in their red and yellow boats up and down the Jurassic Coastline, was recommended for the best Riverboat Operator at the 2009 Group Travel Awards.

Although they didn't win the top prize at the event, held at the Tower Hotel, in London, they were praised by top travel journalist Simon Calder.

Mr Calder, The Independent's travel editor called Stuart Line and Exmouth as a 'fantastic attraction and a destination to be treasured and enjoyed.'

Phillippa Stuart, of Stuart Line Cruises, said: "Just to be in the final was an achievement - we were up against large companies and we are just a small, family-run business.

"It's great to be recognised at a major London awards ceremony, when we are all the way down in Devon and for a travel writer like Simon Calder to be so complimentary about Exmouth was great.

"We see ourselves as more than just a boat trip company but a reason to visit and explore Exmouth, the Estuary and the Jurassic Coast Line."

Town manager Tony Collins said: "This is a fine example of the profile of our town being promoted directly by one of Exmouth's own businesses.

"You can find Ian and Philippa, and their team, actively promoting the Jurassic Coast and the Exe Estuary and the importance of these locations to this part of the world.