Aquabus River Cruises in Cardiff Bay
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Aquabus offers a charming and eco-friendly river cruise experience in Cardiff Bay, providing scenic views of the city’s waterfront landmarks including the Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Bay Marina. Its modern aluminum catamaran boats are fully accessible and operate year-round, weather permitting, making it an enjoyable and relaxing way to explore Cardiff from the water.
A brief summary to River Cruises
- Cardiff, CF10 3RB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.3 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance during weekends and holidays to avoid long queues.
- Choose a seat on the open deck for the best panoramic views and photo opportunities.
- Check the weather forecast as cruises operate year-round but are weather dependent.
- Arrive early if you require wheelchair or pushchair access to ensure smooth boarding.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus services 6 or 8 towards Cardiff Bay from the city center; journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes with frequent departures. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£3.50 one-way.
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Train
Use the Valley Lines train service to Cardiff Bay station from Cardiff Central; travel time is about 5 minutes. Trains run every 15 minutes during peak times with fares around £2.
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Taxi
Taxis from Cardiff city center to Cardiff Bay take about 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing roughly £7–£12. Taxi ranks are available near major transport hubs.
River 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
Discover more about River Cruises
A Unique Perspective on Cardiff's Waterfront
Aquabus River Cruises provide a distinctive way to experience Cardiff by water, offering passengers a fresh perspective on the city’s iconic sights. Cruising along the River Taff and Cardiff Bay, visitors can admire landmarks such as the Millennium Stadium and the bustling Cardiff Bay Marina. The journey reveals the vibrant waterfront life and the architectural blend of historic and modern buildings that define the area.Modern, Accessible Vessels Designed for Comfort
The Aquabus fleet features modern catamarans constructed with aluminum hulls, designed for stability and safety with eight watertight compartments. These boats emphasize accessibility, offering full wheelchair, pushchair, and bicycle access with no steps, ensuring comfort for all passengers. Inside, comfortable modern bus-style seats provide a relaxing environment to enjoy the cruise.Eco-Friendly Operations and Year-Round Service
Committed to environmental sustainability, Aquabus operates modern boats that reduce environmental impact. The service runs throughout the year, weather permitting, making it a reliable option for visitors regardless of season. The calm waters of Cardiff Bay and the river create a tranquil setting, ideal for a peaceful sightseeing trip.The Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Passengers often describe the cruise as a relaxing and scenic escape from the city bustle. The gentle motion of the boat combined with panoramic views of the bay and city skyline creates a serene atmosphere. Friendly and accommodating crew members enhance the experience, providing a welcoming environment. While some tours include commentary, the focus remains on the visual enjoyment and unique vantage points.Practical Information and Accessibility
The Aquabus departs from central locations in Cardiff and Cardiff Bay, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike. The boats’ design ensures easy boarding and disembarking, suitable for families, seniors, and those with mobility needs. The approximately 20-minute trips offer a perfect duration for a quick yet immersive sightseeing adventure.Connecting Cardiff’s Land and Water
Beyond sightseeing, Aquabus functions as a practical water taxi, linking Cardiff city center with the bay area. This dual role supports local transport needs while providing a leisurely tour option. The service contributes to Cardiff’s vibrant waterfront culture, encouraging exploration and appreciation of the city’s maritime heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.4 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.4 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Nereid Statue
0.5 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.6 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.7 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.7 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Parc Mackenzie
0.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
Exitus Escape Rooms
0.8 km
Experience thrilling adventures and team-building fun at Exitus Escape Rooms in Cardiff, where every puzzle brings you closer to victory.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
0.8 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Canal Quarter
0.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.9 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Queen Anne Square
0.9 km
Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.9 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Unmissable attractions to see
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.1 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Animal Wall
0.1 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.2 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.2 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Coopers Field
0.2 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
Cardiff Castle
0.3 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.3 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
SCALE
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of climbing Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium roof with SCALE—where panoramic views meet sporting legend.
Bute Park
0.3 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
Blue Bell
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Principality Stadium
0.4 km
Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Rummer Tavern
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Maison de Bœuf
0.3 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Potted Pig
0.4 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Casanova
0.4 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.4 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.5 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.5 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.4 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Hobos Vintage
0.5 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Mojo King
0.5 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Little Welsh Company
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.6 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Morgan Quarter
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.7 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.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.7 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
elephants and flowres
0.7 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.7 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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.7 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.3 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
0.3 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.5 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Main Stage
0.6 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Glassworks
0.6 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Mary's Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.6 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Yates - Cardiff
0.7 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.7 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Waterfront
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
