Background

The Open Boat 'Daffodil' – Cardiff Bay’s Charming Cruise Experience

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.

5

The Open Boat 'Daffodil' offers a unique, intimate 20-minute open-air boat tour around Cardiff Bay, providing fresh air, panoramic views, and engaging commentary on local landmarks. This small steam launch-style vessel is renowned for its friendly captain and informative tours, making it a standout attraction for visitors seeking a scenic and relaxing waterborne experience in the heart of Cardiff.

A brief summary to The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

  • Bay, The Waterfront, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.3 to 0.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10:30 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a preferred seat on the small boat, as capacity is limited to 11 passengers per trip.
  • Bring a light jacket or use the blankets provided on cooler days to stay comfortable during the open-air cruise.
  • The 20-minute tour is perfect for a quick scenic break, so consider combining it with other Cardiff Bay attractions nearby.
  • Listen closely to the captain’s commentary to learn about Cardiff’s maritime history and the significance of the landmarks you pass.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Bus

    Take Cardiff Bus routes 6 or 6A from the city center to Cardiff Bay; the journey typically takes 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day. From the bus stop, it is a 5-minute walk to the waterfront where The Open Boat 'Daffodil' docks. A single fare costs approximately £2.00.

  • Train and Walk

    From Cardiff Central Station, take a taxi or a 25-minute walk to Cardiff Bay. The walk follows flat, accessible paths suitable for most travelers. Taxi fares range from £6 to £10 depending on traffic.

  • Car

    Driving to Cardiff Bay is possible with several public car parks nearby, including the Mermaid Quay car park. Parking costs around £3-£5 per hour. Note that weekends and holidays may have limited parking availability.

The Open Boat 'Daffodil' location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

A Quaint Vessel with Historic Charm

The Open Boat 'Daffodil' is a small, steam launch-style boat that captures the essence of traditional maritime design while operating modern tours. Its open-air deck allows passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of Cardiff Bay’s waterfront, creating a refreshing and immersive experience. The boat’s compact size fosters an intimate atmosphere, with a maximum capacity of 11 passengers per trip, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy ambiance.

Scenic Exploration of Cardiff Bay

This boat tour navigates the picturesque Cardiff Bay, offering guests a unique vantage point to admire the area’s blend of natural beauty and urban development. Passengers glide past iconic landmarks, waterfront architecture, and vibrant harborside scenes. The open sky above enhances the connection to the environment, inviting fresh breezes and sunlight to complement the visual feast.

Engaging and Knowledgeable Guidance

The tour is led by a captain with decades of experience and a passion for local history. His commentary highlights significant landmarks and shares fascinating stories about Cardiff’s maritime heritage and the bay’s evolution. The captain’s warm, personable style enriches the journey, making it both educational and entertaining.

Year-Round Accessibility and Comfort

Operating throughout the year, The Open Boat 'Daffodil' runs daily trips from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, weather permitting. Despite its open design, the crew provides blankets for cooler days, ensuring passenger comfort. The short 20-minute duration makes it an ideal excursion for visitors with limited time or those seeking a brief, scenic break.

Community and Environmental Connection

As one of the few open-deck cruise boats in Cardiff Bay, the Daffodil emphasizes a low-impact, eco-friendly approach to sightseeing. Its small size and limited passenger numbers help maintain a tranquil atmosphere and reduce environmental disturbance. The boat’s operation supports local tourism while fostering appreciation for Cardiff’s waterfront environment.

Memorable Moments and Local Appeal

The Open Boat 'Daffodil' has earned a reputation for delivering memorable experiences, combining stunning views, friendly service, and insightful narration. It appeals to a wide range of visitors—from families and solo travelers to history enthusiasts—who seek a distinctive way to connect with Cardiff’s maritime culture and scenic bay area.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

Popular Hotels near The Open Boat 'Daffodil'

Select Currency