Private charters are a common sideline for small passenger boats, and the Cardiff Bay yellow boats were no exception. This page summarises what the archive says about charter trips. It is general information only, and pricing and availability are not covered.
The boat and the water
The vessel described in the archive, the Princess Royal, could carry up to 98 passengers. Typical charters ran from around half an hour to an hour or more inside the Bay and along the rivers Ely and Taff, in the day or in the evening. The operator said it could accommodate unusual requests and run at very early or very late hours.
Types of trip
- Picnic cruises. Leisurely evening outings, usually leaving after 5 pm, going up the River Ely and around the Bay. Passengers brought their own picnic or a bottle of wine. Departure points could be Penarth, the River Taff or the Pier Head. Booking in advance and a minimum group size were required.
- School trips. The boat was described as a floating classroom, so pupils could learn about the Bay and its history while afloat.
- Group outings and coach parties.
- Match-day transfers to the Millennium Stadium for rugby.
- Waterfront stops such as the Custom House and Pier 64.
Safety points
The operator stated that its crews were trained, that its boats were insured and licensed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the harbour authority, and that risk assessments were available on request. Anyone arranging a boat trip for a group should always ask for the same assurances, plus lifejacket provision and weather policies.
Planning tips for any charter
- Decide the purpose, group size and rough duration first.
- Ask about food and drink rules, as some operators do not sell refreshments.
- Check the boarding point and accessibility for wheelchairs and prams.
- Confirm what happens if the weather turns.
For the regular shuttle route, see what the service did and the timetable overview.