Cardiff Cruises at Mermaid Quay: Scenic Bay Tours and Unique Waterfront Experiences
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Cardiff Cruises offers a variety of boat tours departing from Mermaid Quay, Cardiff’s vibrant waterfront. Enjoy relaxing sightseeing trips around Cardiff Bay with views of iconic landmarks like the Senedd, yacht clubs, and the Cardiff Barrage. Options include afternoon tea cruises, fish and chip cruises, and private boat hires, all set against the backdrop of Mermaid Quay’s lively marina with its restaurants, bars, and maritime-inspired architecture.
A brief summary to Cardiff Cruises
- Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ, GB
- +442921661166
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance for popular themed cruises like afternoon tea or fish and chip cruises to secure your spot.
- Arrive early at Mermaid Quay to enjoy the vibrant waterfront atmosphere and grab a bite before boarding.
- Check tide times if planning to take the Flat Holm Island ferry, as departures depend on tidal conditions.
- Dress in layers and bring a windbreaker, as open deck areas can be chilly even on sunny days.
- Consider the matchday cruises for a stylish and traffic-free journey to Principality Stadium on rugby days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Several Cardiff Bus routes serve Mermaid Quay, including routes 6 and 61, connecting from Cardiff city centre in approximately 15-25 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £2-£3. The stop is a short walk from the quay.
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Cardiff Queen Street or Cardiff Central station, then enjoy a 25-30 minute walk or a short taxi ride to Mermaid Quay. Trains run regularly from across South Wales and the journey from central Cardiff is about 5 minutes.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to Mermaid Quay from anywhere in Cardiff, typically taking 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £6 to £15.
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Car
Driving to Mermaid Quay is possible with several nearby public car parks, such as the Mermaid Quay car park. Parking fees vary but expect around £2-£4 per hour. Note that the area can be busy during weekends and events.
Cardiff Cruises location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Cardiff Cruises
Immersive Maritime Adventures on Cardiff Bay
Cardiff Cruises operates from Mermaid Quay, a bustling waterfront hub in Cardiff Bay, providing visitors with a range of boat tours that showcase the beauty and history of the area. The cruises offer scenic views of key landmarks such as the Senedd (Welsh Parliament), yacht clubs, and the Cardiff Barrage. Whether you opt for a short sightseeing trip or a longer excursion, the experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative, with onboard commentary highlighting the bay’s heritage and natural environment.A Diverse Fleet and Unique Cruise Experiences
The company offers several themed cruises, including a charming afternoon tea cruise featuring delicate finger sandwiches and pastries, and a fish and chip cruise that combines gourmet dining with panoramic views of the bay. Private boat hires are also available for groups looking for a personalized outing. The boats vary in size and style, some featuring open decks for panoramic viewing, while others provide indoor seating and bar services, catering to different preferences and weather conditions.Mermaid Quay: The Vibrant Waterfront Setting
Mermaid Quay itself is a lively destination with over 30 restaurants, cafes, and bars offering global cuisines, from Welsh specialties to Japanese sushi and French fine dining. The quay’s distinctive architecture draws inspiration from its maritime heritage, featuring decking, towers, balconies, and colonnades that create a unique atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy shopping, entertainment, and cultural events in this scenic waterfront locale, making it an ideal starting point for the cruises.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The cruises are accessible to a broad audience, including families and solo travelers, with friendly and knowledgeable crew members enhancing the experience. Facilities onboard typically include toilets and refreshments. Mermaid Quay offers amenities such as restrooms, food and drink options, and seating areas, ensuring comfort before and after your cruise. The location is well connected by public transport and is a central part of Cardiff Bay’s tourist attractions.Seasonal and Special Event Cruises
Cardiff Cruises also hosts special themed events, including festive Christmas cruises with activities for children and matchday cruises to the Principality Stadium, allowing fans to avoid traffic and enjoy a unique travel experience. These special offerings add variety and appeal to different visitor interests throughout the year.Environmental and Cultural Significance
The bay area, including Mermaid Quay, is part of Cardiff’s broader regeneration efforts, blending natural wetlands with urban development. The cruises provide a window into this evolving landscape, highlighting the balance between cultural heritage, wildlife habitats, and modern leisure activities. This connection to place enriches the visitor’s appreciation of Cardiff’s maritime identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.1 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.3 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Roath Lock
0.4 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.5 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
1.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.9 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
John Batchelor Statue
2.0 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
HMP Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
2.1 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Principality Stadium
2.1 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Museum of Cardiff
2.1 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
8 St Mary St
2.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
The Cardiff Market
2.1 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.0 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Cargoes Poem
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Ianto's Shrine
0.1 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Pierhead Building
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.1 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
The Senedd
0.1 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.1 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.1 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.2 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Techniquest
0.2 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.2 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Mount Stuart Square
0.3 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.0 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Demiro's
0.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Signor Valentino
0.1 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.1 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Tir a Môr
0.3 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.7 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.2 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.7 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.7 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Polka Dot
0.1 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Zia Boutique
0.1 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.2 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.6 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.7 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Ganesha Handicrafts
1.9 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.9 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
1.9 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.9 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.9 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
1.9 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
2.0 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Morgan Quarter
2.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dock
0.1 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
The Eli Jenkins
0.1 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
Bar One
0.1 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Packet
0.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Waterguard
0.2 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
0.5 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Grange Pub
1.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Mocka Lounge
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Peppermint Bar
1.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.8 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.8 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.8 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
