Aquabus River Cruises in Cardiff
Discover Cardiff’s landmarks and vibrant bay from the water with Aquabus, a relaxing and accessible river cruise experience.
Aquabus offers a unique waterbus service connecting Cardiff city centre and Cardiff Bay, providing scenic river cruises along the River Taff and Cardiff Bay. Operating year-round weather permitting, these cruises offer relaxing views of landmarks like the Principality Stadium, Cardiff Castle, and the Cardiff Bay Barrage, with wheelchair and bicycle accessible modern vessels. Ideal for sightseeing and a peaceful alternative to city travel, Aquabus combines comfort, accessibility, and local charm.
A brief summary to River Cruises
- Cardiff, CF10 3RB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 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.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of Cardiff’s waterfront and iconic landmarks.
- Use the Aquabus as a scenic and convenient shuttle between Cardiff Castle and Mermaid Quay.
- Check weather conditions before your trip, as service operates year-round but is weather dependent.
- Consider the longer 45-minute bay cruise for a more comprehensive tour including stops at the barrage locks.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take local Cardiff bus routes 6 or 8 from the city centre to Mermaid Quay, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes, and a single ticket costs around £2.50. Note that services may be less frequent on Sundays and public holidays.
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Train
Cardiff Central railway station is about 1.5 km from the Aquabus boarding point at Cardiff Castle. From the station, take a 20-minute walk along the river or a short taxi ride costing approximately £5-£7. Trains connect Cardiff with nearby towns and cities, making this a convenient option for regional travelers.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in Cardiff. A trip from the city centre to Mermaid Quay typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic and costs around £7-£12. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for groups or travelers with luggage.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, the route along the River Taff from Cardiff Castle to Mermaid Quay is approximately 2 km and takes about 25-30 minutes on flat, paved paths. This scenic walk offers views of the city’s architecture and green spaces and is accessible for most fitness levels.
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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about River Cruises
Scenic Waterway Connection Between City and Bay
Aquabus operates a distinctive waterbus service along the River Taff, linking the historic Cardiff Castle grounds in the city centre with the vibrant Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay. This hourly service runs year-round, weather permitting, providing a practical and picturesque alternative to road transport. The vessels are modern aluminum catamarans designed for stability and safety, featuring panoramic windows for uninterrupted views of the city’s waterfront and key landmarks. The route offers passengers a unique perspective on Cardiff’s urban and natural landscapes, including glimpses of the Principality Stadium and the Cardiff Bay Barrage.Comfort, Accessibility, and Environmental Considerations
The Aquabus fleet is designed with passenger comfort and accessibility in mind. Boats feature comfortable, modern seating and are fully accessible to wheelchairs, pushchairs, and bicycles, with no steps to board. The aluminum catamaran hulls are environmentally conscious, supporting a lower ecological footprint compared to traditional vessels. Safety is paramount, with each boat comprising multiple watertight compartments to ensure a secure journey. This commitment to comfort and inclusivity makes Aquabus an excellent choice for families, seniors, and travelers with mobility needs.Experience and Atmosphere Onboard
The cruise experience is calm and relaxing, typically lasting around 20 to 30 minutes for the city centre to bay route, with longer 45-minute tours available around Cardiff Bay. Passengers enjoy tranquil waterborne travel with friendly and helpful crew members who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. The panoramic views from the water reveal Cardiff’s blend of historic and contemporary architecture, while the gentle motion of the boat offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city streets. Some tours include stops at points of interest such as the barrage locks, where passengers can disembark and explore before rejoining the cruise.Local Landmarks and Natural Highlights
Along the route, passengers can admire several iconic Cardiff landmarks. The Principality Stadium, home to rugby and major events, stands prominently near the river. Cardiff Castle’s historic grounds are visible near the city centre boarding point. The cruise also passes through the Cardiff Bay area, showcasing the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Mermaid Quay’s lively waterfront, and the expansive Cardiff Bay Barrage, which controls tidal flow and supports a nature reserve. The surrounding wetlands and riverbanks provide opportunities to spot local wildlife, enhancing the natural charm of the journey.Practical Information and Visitor Tips
Tickets for Aquabus cruises are affordably priced, with adult fares around £4 for the short city-to-bay trip and family packages available. The service runs hourly from mid-morning to early evening, with departures from Cardiff Castle and Mermaid Quay. Boarding is easy and well-organized, though queues can form during busy periods or holidays. While the boats are wheelchair accessible, onboard toilets are not always available. Passengers are advised to dress for the weather, as some vessels have limited outdoor seating. The Aquabus is a favored choice for a relaxing sightseeing experience or a convenient waterborne shuttle between key Cardiff destinations.Community and Cultural Significance
Aquabus not only serves as a transport link but also as a cultural experience reflecting Cardiff’s maritime heritage and urban renewal. The service supports local tourism by connecting visitors with Cardiff’s historic sites and modern attractions in an environmentally friendly way. It fosters a sense of community by providing accessible transport options and educational charters for schools and groups. The Aquabus stands as a symbol of Cardiff’s commitment to sustainable urban transport and its celebration of the city’s waterways as vital public spaces.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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
0.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.3 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
0.4 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.6 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
0.6 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.6 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
0.6 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.7 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.
Walkabout - Cardiff
0.8 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Pulse
0.9 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.
The Globe
2.0 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.
The Vaults
2.2 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.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.5 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.
Coco Cubanas
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.3 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
