Seas the Day with 3 Top-Rated Boat Trips in Cardiff Bay

If you’ve booked a Welsh holiday by the water in Cardiff for 2022, then you will definitely want to make the most of your visit with a boat trip around Cardiff Bay.

One of the best ways to see many of the city’s most well-known landmarks and learn about the rich history of the area, you’ll also get to enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the bay, and hopefully, spot some of its local wildlife during your outing.

Can’t wait to test out your sea legs? Check out 3 unmissable Cardiff Bay boat tours which will give you a seal’s eye view of the city and its many remarkable attractions!

Cardiff Bay Boat Tour

Provided by Cardiff Cruises, this immersive hour-long boat tour gives you the perfect opportunity to soak up the history of the bay and discover its unique wonders, both natural and manmade.

This tour kicks off from Mermaid Quay or the historic Barrage and takes you on a stately cruise past landmarks such as the Old Docks, the Welsh Millennium Centre, and the Welsh Assembly.

You will also sail by the pristine Wetlands Nature Reserve, giving you the chance to spy some of its diverse native wildlife, and if you wish, you can disembark at Mermaid Quay to enjoy a spot of retail therapy.

During your boat trip, the onboard commentary will ply you with plenty of fascinating facts about Cardiff Bay’s history and evolution. The perfect family jaunt on the waters, this tour is available from just £9.80 per person.

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The Open Boat ‘Daffodil’

For a short but sweet Cardiff Bay boat cruise, why not hop onboard the Daffodil? This charming little steamboat look-alike with an open-top covers the waters of the bay in short 20-minute trips. Expect an interesting commentary, gusts of invigorating estuary air, and plenty of spectacular views.

This family-friendly Cardiff Bay boat tour is both enjoyable and affordable, with fares set at just £6 for adults and £3 for children. The Daffodil’s skipper has over 20 years of experience and can even tailor the trip to suit your interests. During your cruise, you will be able to take in the splendour of the Wetlands Nature Reserve and Cardiff Bay’s iconic attractions, such as the historic waterfront and Barrage.

Board the Daffodil from the Cardiff Waterfront between 10.30 am and 4 pm throughout the year (weather dependant of course), with no booking necessary.

Cardiff Jet

If you’d like to experience Cardiff in a more adrenaline-pumping fashion, how about trying the area’s brand-new Cardiff Bay speed boat trips?

Brought to you by Cardiff Jet, there are several different boat rides to choose from, ranging in length from 25 minutes to one hour in length.

One of the tour operator’s most popular outings is the 1-hour Coastal Shock trip, which takes you whizzing past the Cardiff Barrage and out into the Bristol Channel. Spot Lavernock Point, Sully, Penarth, and Flat Holm Island, before jetting back to Mermaid Quay to relax with some soothing shopping.

Alternatively, you may prefer the 25-minute Bay Waves tour, which is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. Along the way, you’ll get to drink in the majesty of the Bay and explore the River Ely at high speed – and hopefully spot some local wildlife too.

Prices for these exhilarating speed boat trips in Cardiff Bay vary depending on the experience you want to book. For instance, the 25-minute Bay Waves jaunt is £12 per person, while the hour-long Coastal Shock trip costs around £30.

Other experiences are also available, such as special stag, hen and birthday party boat trips. Plus, their highly popular 25-minute Bay Experience can be chartered privately for you and your nearest and dearest.

Seeing Cardiff in style

As you can see, one of the best ways to experience Cardiff’s waterfront is by boat, whether you prefer a gentle cruise or a heart-pumping speed boat blast. However, you don’t just have to stick to the attractions of the Bay during your visit.

Cardiff has plenty more to offer, from world-class restaurants to fascinating must-see attractions like the innovative science museum and state-of-the-art sports stadium. You can even sample some delectable craft beers during your stay. Plus, finding a fantastic hotel or holiday cottage will be a breeze, as the city has some real gems on offer.