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.
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
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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.
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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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.
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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.
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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
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 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
0.2 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
1.6 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.
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.
Principality Stadium
2.1 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
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
2.2 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
Cardiff Cruises
0.0 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.2 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Mermaid Quay
0.2 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
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.
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.
Mount Stuart Square
0.4 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
0.1 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
1.3 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
1.7 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
2.0 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
2.0 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
2.0 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
2.0 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
2.0 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
0.2 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
0.2 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 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.
The Packet
0.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
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
1.8 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
1.9 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
0.1 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
The Vaults
0.3 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Popworld - Cardiff
2.0 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
2.0 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
For Your Eyes Only
2.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Pulse
2.2 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.3 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
2.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.3 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
2.4 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.4 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.4 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Yates - Cardiff
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.5 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly