Red_Ensign.png FlagCardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and its commercial docks

........ have long been busy with the export of coal. ABP run the commercial port, which is of little interest to the small craft Mariner..... other than that you will have to share the Wrach Channel with port shipping in your approaches to the Barrage Locks.

The Cardiff Bay Barrage Project was a huge civil engineering undertaking, that involved building a dam over a kilometre long between Cardiff and Penarth docks. The net result is that from the millennium onwards a huge freshwater lake of more than 500 acres was formed in a previously somewhat ugly and muddy area. From the small craft skipper's point of view this has opened up a huge area that was previously untenably tidal, with the net result that the numbers of craft moored within has mushroomed, as have facilities (more details in the history section).

Within the Cardiff Bay area there are two marinas, plus various other mooring options including two yacht clubs with visitors pontoons , plus the opportunity to moor for short stays right in the city. More facilities appear to be coming online rapidly, and over 1000 leisure craft are currently based here.

Approach and entry from the Bristol Channel area is straightforward other than perhaps at dead low water springs.

Absolutely all city facilities will be found in the area, including excellent transport links, shopping etc.

A large fleet of sea fishing charter boats work out of Cardiff Bay, in fact the second largest fleet outside Weymouth. Keen sea anglers should check the directory.

It's worth noting that there are no tidal streams within the basin so it's a good place to check the calibration of your log against your GPS!!

Cardiff Bay

  Approach    Berthing    Comments 7 

  Approach

If making your approach from the North East you will need

..... to be aware of the drying Cardiff Grounds banks (they dry 2.4m at CD). An inshore passage is available (not shown on our charts) if coming from Newport for example.

Apart from strong tides that can reach up to 5 kn, the Cardiff Grounds banks are the main danger.

If coming from the South or the West, the best plan is to make towards Lavernock Point, and give it a good offing. The red can buoy Raine (Fl(2)R.5s) should be left well on your port side, and the southerly Cardinal buoy S.Cardiff (Q(6)+LFl.15s) is left to starboard. These can be seen on the Wrach Channel chart provided. From here, making good a northerly course with a touch of west will bring you to the dredged Wrach Channel.

Look out for Penarth Pier, and leave it well off on your port side, while identifying and leaving the westerly cardinal buoy Outer Wrach (Q(9)15s) fairly close to starboard.

A night approach can be made using the white sector of the directional light shown on the chart, close to the entrance to the commercial docks (Oc.WRG.10s5m3M).

As can be seen on the charts, the Wrach Channel is narrow and all shipping using the commercial docks need to use it, and while in it and nearby they will be constrained by draft and unable to manoeuvre. Therefore small craft Mariners need to keep a sharp eye out for ships approaching or leaving the commercial docks, and keep out of their way. At the time of reporting (Feb 2013) comercial traffic into and out of Cardiff docks has dried to a trickle of about four or five ships per week. A listening watch should be kept on VHF channel 69 for safety broadcasts made by Severn VTS. Information on expected and actual shipping movements for Cardiff can be obtained here:

http://www.southwalesports.co.uk/Live_Shipping/

The APB authorities recommend that small craft keep to the Penarth side of the Wrach Channel, and if a crossing of it has to be made, it's done at right angles and as quickly as possible. There is enough water to keep out of the channel providing there is an ample rise of tide. It will be necessary to use the Wrach Channel in the final approachs to the barrage, leaving the red can buoy Penarth Head (Q.R) to port. The final approach to the barrage is made by leaving the RGR Barrage can buoy (Fl(2+1)R.10s) to starboard (it's a "preferred channel mark" for cargoe vessels going to Cardiff Docks), having passed an unnamed red can buoy (Fl.R.2.5s). A further matching pair of buoys, red can and green conical define the channel into the outer harbour... pass between these and into the outer harbour where you will see the locks (check photo gallery).

If approaching from eastwards via Bristol Deep, the safest bet is to leave the Monkstone Lighthouse (Fl.5s) well off to starboard, and generally heading WSW also leaving the red can Cardiff Spit buoy (Q.R), and the southerly Cardinal buoy S.Cardiff (Q(6)+LFl.15s) on your starboard side before swinging to the North to locate the Wrach Channel. The instructions already given can then be used. Alternatively, if coming from or going to Bristol, there's no reason depending on state of the tide and draft why you can't route directly between the Outer Wrack ECM and the NW Elbow ECM at half tide but be careful if approaching on the ebb because there are some fairly shallow bits there and, of course, they shift a bit

In general strong winds from the East can make the closer approaches uncomfortable, but the Cardiff Grounds drying banks can provide some shelter if your approach timed to arrive at the barrage (at) approximately half flood.

In all cases before attempting to enter the outer harbour permission will be needed from Barrage Control who work 24 hours on VHF channel 18 and can also be contacted on 02920 877900. Call them up in the approach when you're near the Outer Wrach Cardinal buoy and arrange your passage through the lock. They will also be able to confirm depths available in the approach channel and outer harbour.

The entrance to each of the three locks is controlled by standard traffic signals, three vertical red lights flashing mean emergency, three vertical red lights = do not enter lock, green white green(vert) = enter lock only on instructions from barrage control, three greens arranged vertically = enter lock.

The Wrach Channel has plenty of water for yachts, but the shallower approach to the barrage locks may not have enough at LWS for some craft. Probably the best plan is to make sure you arrive with a suitable rise of tide underneath you.

The Harbour Authority for the whole Cardiff Bay area produce a very useful website and a link is provided below:

Cardiff Harbour Authority - Cardiff Harbour Authority

  Chart    Berthing    Comments 7 
  Harbour   Anchorage   Marina
   £   GMT

Waypoint

Entrance to Wrach Channel, near Outer Wrach W.Cardinal Buoy 51:26'.1N 003:09'.47W

Charts

Admiralty, 1182, 1152, 1179, SC5608

Rules & Regs

Unknown

Hazards

Strong Tides off Lavernock Point in the Approach, Shipping in Wrach Dredged Channel

Tides

HW Penarth=Dover -0430 MHWS 12.2m, MHWN 9.4m, MLWN 3.6m, MLWS 0.9m
Cardiff BayHarbour,Anchorage0-3.17339861434523551.42858341784722Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and its commercial docks ........ have long been busy with the export of coal. ABP run the commercial port, which is of little interest to the small craft Mariner..... other than that you will have to share the Wrach Channel with port shipping in your approaches to the Barrage Locks. The Cardiff Bay Barrage Project was a huge civil engineering undertaking, that involved building a dam over a kilometre long between Cardiff and Penarth docks. The net result is that from the millennium onwards a huge freshwater lake of more than 500 acres was formed in a previously somewhat ugly and muddy area. From the small craft skipper's point of view this has opened up a huge area that was previously untenably tidal, with the net result that the numbers of craft moored within has mushroomed, as have facilities (more details in the history section). Within the Cardiff Bay area there are two marinas, plus various other mooring options including two yacht clubs with visitors pontoons , plus the opportunity to moor for short stays right in the city. More facilities appear to be coming online rapidly, and over 1000 leisure craft are currently based here. Approach and entry from the Bristol Channel area is straightforward other than perhaps at dead low water springs. Absolutely all city facilities will be found in the area, including excellent transport links, shopping etc. A large fleet of sea fishing charter boats work out of Cardiff Bay, in fact the second largest fleet outside Weymouth. Keen sea anglers should check the directory. It's worth noting that there are no tidal streams within the basin so it's a good place to check the calibration of your log against your GPS!! Admiralty, 1182, 1152, 1179, SC5608Unknown Strong Tides off Lavernock Point in the Approach, Shipping in Wrach Dredged Channel HW Penarth=Dover -0430 MHWS 12.2m, MHWN 9.4m, MLWN 3.6m, MLWS 0.9mIf making your approach from the North East you will need ..... to be aware of the drying Cardiff Grounds banks (they dry 2.4m at CD). An inshore passage is available (not shown on our charts) if coming from Newport for example.Apart from strong tides that can reach up to 5 kn, the Cardiff Grounds banks are the main danger. If coming from the South or the West, the best plan is to make towards Lavernock Point, and give it a good offing. The red can buoy Raine (Fl(2)R.5s) should be left well on your port side, and the southerly Cardinal buoy S.Cardiff (Q(6)+LFl.15s) is left to starboard. These can be seen on the Wrach Channel chart provided. From here, making good a northerly course with a touch of west will bring you to the dredged Wrach Channel. Look out for Penarth Pier, and leave it well off on your port side, while identifying and leaving the westerly cardinal buoy Outer Wrach (Q(9)15s) fairly close to starboard. A night approach can be made using the white sector of the directional light shown on the chart, close to the entrance to the commercial docks (Oc.WRG.10s5m3M). As can be seen on the charts, the Wrach Channel is narrow and all shipping using the commercial docks need to use it, and while in it and nearby they will be constrained by draft and unable to manoeuvre. Therefore small craft Mariners need to keep a sharp eye out for ships approaching or leaving the commercial docks, and keep out of their way. At the time of reporting (Feb 2013) comercial traffic into and out of Cardiff docks has dried to a trickle of about four or five ships per week. A listening watch should be kept on VHF channel 69 for safety broadcasts made by Severn VTS. Information on expected and actual shipping movements for Cardiff can be obtained here: http://www.southwalesports.co.uk/Live_Shipping/The APB authorities recommend that small craft keep to the Penarth side of the Wrach Channel, and if a crossing of it has to be made, it's done at right angles and as quickly as possible. There is enough water to keep out of the channel providing there is an ample rise of tide. It will be necessary to use the Wrach Channel in the final approachs to the barrage, leaving the red can buoy Penarth Head (Q.R) to port. The final approach to the barrage is made by leaving the RGR Barrage can buoy (Fl(2+1)R.10s) to starboard (it's a "preferred channel mark" for cargoe vessels going to Cardiff Docks), having passed an unnamed red can buoy (Fl.R.2.5s). A further matching pair of buoys, red can and green conical define the channel into the outer harbour... pass between these and into the outer harbour where you will see the locks (check photo gallery). If approaching from eastwards via Bristol Deep, the safest bet is to leave the Monkstone Lighthouse (Fl.5s) well off to starboard, and generally heading WSW also leaving the red can Cardiff Spit buoy (Q.R), and the southerly Cardinal buoy S.Cardiff (Q(6)+LFl.15s) on your starboard side before swinging to the North to locate the Wrach Channel. The instructions already given can then be used. Alternatively, if coming from or going to Bristol, there's no reason depending on state of the tide and draft why you can't route directly between the Outer Wrack ECM and the NW Elbow ECM at half tide but be careful if approaching on the ebb because there are some fairly shallow bits there and, of course, they shift a bit In general strong winds from the East can make the closer approaches uncomfortable, but the Cardiff Grounds drying banks can provide some shelter if your approach timed to arrive at the barrage (at) approximately half flood. In all cases before attempting to enter the outer harbour permission will be needed from Barrage Control who work 24 hours on VHF channel 18 and can also be contacted on 02920 877900. Call them up in the approach when you're near the Outer Wrach Cardinal buoy and arrange your passage through the lock. They will also be able to confirm depths available in the approach channel and outer harbour. The entrance to each of the three locks is controlled by standard traffic signals, three vertical red lights flashing mean emergency, three vertical red lights = do not enter lock, green white green(vert) = enter lock only on instructions from barrage control, three greens arranged vertically = enter lock. The Wrach Channel has plenty of water for yachts, but the shallower approach to the barrage locks may not have enough at LWS for some craft. Probably the best plan is to make sure you arrive with a suitable rise of tide underneath you. The Harbour Authority for the whole Cardiff Bay area produce a very useful website and a link is provided below: Cardiff Harbour Authority - Cardiff Harbour AuthorityOnce you are through the locks and into this vast expanse of freshwater, ...... visiting yachtsmen or motorboaters have the following mooring options: Penarth Marina, Cardiff Bay Yacht Club, Cardiff Marina, Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Yacht Club. Full details are now provided, including visitors prices. Anchoring looks tempting on studying the chart, but is not an option (see further berthing section.) Penarth MarinaThe long-established Penarth Marina has been aquired by the Boatfolk organisation and is the very first you will come to; it lies immediately to port as you exit the barrage locks. Originally it was necessary to lock in and out of the Marina, and the lock is still there and sometimes occasionally used if the water levels in Cardiff Bay drop too much. In general though this lock is now left open for free flow at all times, but you will still need to contact the Marina before you enter as they use one of the gates as a pedestrain bridge. You can call the Marina on VHF channel 80, callsign Penarth Marina, to arrange your entry, or you can telephone 02920 705021. Normally vessels will be able to proceed straight through the lock into the marina basin. Visiting vessels may be asked to wait on a reception pontoon in the lock where they will be met by marina staff and allocated a berth. Skippers should be aware that a slight flow may be experienced within the marina lock barrel. Entry to the Marina lock is controlled by traffic signals with the following meanings, double red = danger keep clear of lock, single red = lock in use, keep clear, green = enter lock on receiving instructions from staff. Short-term berthing fees here (2022) work out at £3.50 per metre per night, with a minimum of £15. This is a full service Marina, and its facilities are covered shortly. A link to Penarth Marina's website is provided below: Penarth Marina | boatfolkCardiff Bay Yacht Club A little bit further into the River Ely, on the Northern bank lies the pretty new and recently renamed Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. Since the barrage was completed there is water here at all states of the tide, and the club maintain pontoons. Their visitors pontoon is the first when you come to in the River Ely on your starboard side They will charge you £18 per day to use that and a bit extra if you want shore power. There are showers in the club and you will be asked for a £10 deposit for a gate key. They also have a bar and restaurant. You will need to make prior arrangements with the club for using this pontoon, and you can telephone the Office on 029 2066 6627, or the clubhouse on 029 2022 6575. A link to their website is also provided below: http://www.cbyc.co.uk/Cardiff MarinaA new Marina, Cardiff Marina, has been established further up the River Ely before you reach the fixed bridge. It is on the starboard side (North) and provides pontoon berths within the River. Obviously since the barrage was built the River is not tidal. Taking a fairly central course down the River Ely will bring you to their pontoons after you have completed passing all the pontoons belonging to the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. They advise when in the River to keep at least 8 m away from the wall at all times because there is a step under the waterline. They can be contacted on 029 2034 3459, and a link is provided to their website below: http://www.themarinegroup.co.uk/cardiff/marinaThis is another full service Marina, and its facilities are covered shortly. Short-term visitors berths work out at £3.12 per metre per day (2022) with an extra charge for electricity (you get cards from the office) Cardiff Yacht ClubCardiff Yacht Club has its premises and moorings in the north-western corner of Cardiff Bay. This club has pontoon berths dredged to 2.5 m, and reserves some spaces for visitors with boats up to 37' only. The club is welcoming and friendly and should you wish to use their facilities it would probably be best to contact them in advance. They do not charge for mooring but ask that visitors support the Club bar. They are happy for visitors to use the club toilets and showers when Club members are available to let them in. If you arrive late you may well find the Club locked up. You can telephone them on 02920 463697, and a link to their website is provided below: http://www.cardiffyachtclub.org/ Mermaid Quay and the Graving DocksThere are shortstay facilities available at Mermaid Quay right at the north end of Cardiff Bay, absolutely central for the city. These pontoons are seen quite clearly in the photo gallery, and are for daytime use. You simply arrive and tie up, put some money in a pay and display type machine which gives you a ticket. On the ticket is your access number for the gate. The pontoons at Mermaid Quay and visitors berths in the Graving Docks at the North end of the bay are run by the harbour authorities and are the least attractive of the facilities available in the bay. They consist purely as places to tie up; they were installed with facilities for water and shore power but those facilities are not connected up. On the pontoons payment is made by a pay and display machine and the entry code for the gate is given on the ticket supplied; within the South Westerly of the graving docks the pay and display machine has broken down and (if local information is correct) the cost of repairing/replacing it outweighs the revenue provided by it so it will remain broken. Berthing there is free and the shore power and water has been disconnected. The central of the three docks is close for access and the North Easterly one has a set of isolated pontoons floating in the middle. Toilets are shared with the general public. The Mermaid Quay pontoons do not permit longer than a 24 hour stop (for £24) but it is not somewhere one would want to stop for more than 24 hours. Ideal for a "Run ashore" from the North Somerset Coast or Bristol. Conclusion: I think it would be fair to say that this whole Cardiff Bay area is a rapidly developing (with over 1000 resident boats already), and an extremely appealing expanse of clean water. Once within the Mariner will escape all the problems associated with the huge tidal ranges in the Bristol Channel. Facilities are being enhanced and developed faster than they can be put on the latest charts, and we can expect more. The authorities who planned and executed the Cardiff Bay scheme are to be congratulated. If you were thinking that the huge area of enclosed water ..... formed by the Cardiff barrage would make a great spot to anchor.... think again. The following extract is from a very interesting weblog that covers the journeys of a New Zealand couple through the UK canals, Bristol Channel area, across the Irish Sea, and the Irish inland waterways. "By 1.30pm we were reporting to the Cardiff Tidal Barrage and in another hour we had locked through, anchored in a quiet spot and put on the kettle while we figured out what to do next. Cardiff Bay Harbour has recently been re-developed as a recreational area. The entire bay has been penned as a fresh water lake behind an extensive tidal barrage. Obviously an enormous amount of money has been spent converting the old wharf areas into pedestrian precincts with bars, restaurants, museums etc. Three huge locks allow most-tide entrance from the Bristol Channel to the harbour, and huge underwater pipes continually aerate the water to maintain the water quality in. As we entered we had noticed strange up-wellings, like whirlpools, in the water, but none of our books or charts made reference to them, so we were able only to make uneducated guesses about their cause. Now we know… In minutes the Harbour police arrived. Mooring is strictly prohibited anywhere in the harbour, since you might inadvertently pick up one of these huge aerating pipes! However, despite this restriction, visitors are well provided for. The visitors' pontoon (to which we were directed to spend the night in solitary splendour) is right in the middle of the town. Payment was by a Pay & Display system – one Pound per hour, regardless of the size of your boat. As we sat on deck, enjoying the evening sunshine with our pre-prandial glasses of wine and with the cottage pie cooking in the oven, we wondered idly about the thoughts of the clients of the extraordinarily upper-class restaurant beside us, as they sipped their champers, enjoyed their oyster cocktails and looked down on these New Zealand gypsies! " Penarth MarinaThe facilities at Penarth Marina include water and electricity (extra charge) on all the pontoons, with 340 berths. Security is handled by special key fobs or pin numbers for visitors, with access being controlled to the pontoons and the shoreside facilities. Staff are on duty 24 hours a day. BT openzone provides WiFi coverage in the Marina. The fuel berth supplies diesel and petrol while chandlery (gas bottles), boat and engine repairs, sailmaking, and rigging services are available on site. The marina can lift boats of up to 20 tonnes and provide full boatyard services. Holding Tank pumpouts are handled by the harbour authority adjacent to the barrage locks. Provisioning is easy enough with a Tesco's supermarket within a 10 minutes walk, and you can even hire bicycles from the Marina office. A couple of restaurants will be found right next to the Marina. All other town facilities will be found in Penarth, a long established holiday resort town. This is about 10 minutes walk away from this Marina. In 2011 a cafe/restaurant (called Pier 64)was opened in the marina and this suplies meals/snacks throughout the day and has an alcohol licence. Cardiff MarinaWater and electricity (payment cards) are available on the pontoons, with security handled by CCTV. Outside of office hours a key fob entry system is used. The office is open 9 AM to 5 PM weekdays, and Saturday's 9 AM to 1 PM. The new toilet and shower block in the centre of the Marina is open 24 hours a day for berth holders. Free WiFi is available to all berths, the key available at the Marina office. Diesel fuel is available but only during office hours, and tank pump out facilities are available. A platform Crane especially suitable for mast work is on site, and can also lift smallish boats up to 4.5 tonnes. A water bus pick up point will be in operation shortly directly from the marina's pontoon D for a quick and easy way to get to the city, while for provisioning there are several nearby supermarkets the nearest only being a few minutes walk away. There are regular buses into town and trains from the station just across the river. it's a fair old hike into town so you will need to use those. There is now a co-located restaurant in operation. . General City FacilitiesCardiff being the capital city of Wales can offer just about any facility you would expect to find. The Marinas are somewhat remote from the city as is the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. Bicycle hire or water bus will get you there. Cardiff Yacht Club is somewhat closer to the action, while Mermaid Quay is right on a brand-new waterfront development. Should you care to investigate further this is what you will find: "Cardiff is one of the top ten retail destinations in the UK, with two main shopping streets (Queen Street and St. Mary Street), and three main shopping arcades; St. David's Centre, Queens Arcade and the Capitol Centre. The current expansion of St. David's Centre as part of the St. David's 2 project will see it become one of the largest shopping centres in the United Kingdom. As well as the modern shopping arcades, the city is also home to many Victorian shopping centres, such as High Street Arcade, Castle Arcade, Wyndham Arcade, Royal Arcade and Morgan Arcade. Also of note is The Hayes, home to Spillers Records, the world's oldest record shop. Cardiff has a number of markets, including the vast Victorian indoor Cardiff Central Market and the newly-established Riverside Community Market, which specialises in locally-produced organic produce. Several out-of-town retail parks exist, such as Newport Road, Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff Gate and Cardiff Bay." For crew changes, or if you are considering keeping your boat here, transport connections are excellent. Railway Cardiff Central Station provides direct InterCity links to nearby Newport and other major cities such as Bristol, Birmingham, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle upon Tyne, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Cardiff Airport Domestic and international air links to Cardiff and South & West Wales are provided from Cardiff Airport (CWL), the only international airport in Wales. The airport is situated in the village of Rhoose, 10 miles (16 km) west of the city. There are regular bus services linking the airport with the Cardiff Central Bus Station as well as a train service from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport railway station to Cardiff Central. Inter City Buses National Express provides direct services to other major cities, as well as to Swansea and Merthyr Tydfil. Megabus operates frequent discounted services to London. Trailer Sailers Considering the attractions of the non tidal Cardiff Bay for trailer sailers there is a distinct lack of launching sites. This is a real shame because the fast running waters and massive tidal range of the Bristol Channel are not really suitable or safe for sailing dinghies etc. In fact we have deliberately refrained from covering some launching sites for this reason. Cardiff Bay Yacht Club has an excellent launching ramp, but this is available to members only, with no temporary membership available. It is to be hoped that further slipways will be developed, and any info concerning this would be appreciated. The two marinas and the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club are quite a way from the city of Cardiff, but Penarth Marina is within very easy distance of Penarth town, a long established seaside resort. Unfortunately from its heyday of day time steamer trips from Minehead and Clevedon and a lively beach front it has become a mainly dormitory town and one can find oneself wandering aimlessly along residential streets looking for some signs of life; you are better off going for the Cardiff City Centre option. Cardiff Marina and Cardiff Bay Yacht Club are reasonably close to local facilities but still a good hike into the bright lights. Otherwise if you can organise transport to Cardiff city centre there is a huge choice available. Cardiff has a strong nightlife and is home to many bars, pubs and clubs. Most clubs and bars are situated in the city centre, especially St. Mary's Street, and more recently Cardiff Bay has built up a strong night scene, with many modern bars & restaurants. The Brewery Quarter on St. Mary's Street is a recently developed venue for bars and restaurant with a central courtyard. Charles Street is also a popular part of the city. The area between Cardiff Bay and the City (the old "Tiger Bay") is now mainly residential and many of the old shops of Bute Street are boarded up; your choice is to remain in the well developed area of the Bay (loads of eateries and bars) or lift and shift to the city in the knowledge that at chucking out time you will have to join the madding throng for a taxi back to wherever you've moored your boat As usual it is not our place to delve too deeply, but to leave you with some links for your perusal: Pubs Penarth (read the reviews before you make a choice) Penarth pubs and bars; pubs in Penarth, Restaurants Penarth and Cardiff Restaurants in Penarth - Updated September 2022 Pubs Cardiff Cardiff pubs and bars; pubs in Cardiff Cardiff is the capital, largest city and most populous county of Wales. The city is Wales' chief commercial centre, the base for many national cultural and sporting institutions, the Welsh national media, and the seat of the National Assembly for Wales. According to recent estimates, the population of the unitary authority area is 321,000 and is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. Cardiff is a significant tourist centre and the most popular visitor destination in Wales with 11.7 million visitors in 2006. The city of Cardiff is the county town of the historic county of Glamorgan (and later South Glamorgan). Cardiff is part of the Eurocities network of the largest European cities. Cardiff Urban Area covers a slightly larger area, including Dinas Powys, Penarth and Radyr. A small town until the early 19th century, the city came to prominence as a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of industry in the region. Cardiff was made a city in 1905, and proclaimed capital of Wales in 1955. Since the 1990s Cardiff has seen significant development with a new waterfront area at Cardiff Bay which contains the new Welsh Assembly Building and the Wales Millennium Centre arts complex. The city centre is undergoing a major redevelopment. International sporting venues in the city include the Millennium Stadium (rugby union and football) and SWALEC Stadium (cricket). Building of the docks In 1793, John Crichton-Stuart, 2nd Marquess of Bute was born. He would spend his life building the Cardiff docks and would later be called "the creator of modern Cardiff". A twice-weekly boat service between Cardiff and Bristol was established in 1815, and in 1821, the Cardiff Gas Works was established. The town grew rapidly from the 1830s onwards, when the Marquess of Bute built a dock which eventually linked to the Taff Vale Railway. Cardiff became the main port for exports of coal from the Cynon, Rhondda, and Rhymney valleys, and grew at a rate of nearly 80% per decade between 1840 and 1870. Much of the growth was due to migration from within and outside Wales: in 1841, a quarter of Cardiff's population were English-born and more than 10% had been born in Ireland. By the 1881 census, Cardiff had overtaken both Merthyr and Swansea to become the largest town in Wales. Cardiff's new status as the premier town in South Wales was confirmed when it was chosen as the site of the University College South Wales and Monmouthshire in 1893. Cardiff faced a challenge in the 1880s when David Davies of Llandinam and the Barry Railway Company promoted the development of rival docks at Barry. Barry docks had the advantage of being accessible in all tides, and David Davies claimed that his venture would cause "grass to grow in the streets of Cardiff". From 1901 coal exports from Barry surpassed those from Cardiff, but the administration of the coal trade remained centred on Cardiff, in particular its Coal Exchange, where the price of coal on the British market was determined and the first million-pound deal was struck in 1907. The city also strengthened its industrial base with the decision of the owners of the Dowlais Ironworks in Merthyr (who would later form part of Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds) to build a new steelworks close to the docks at East Moors, which was opened on 4 February 1891 by Lord Bute. Recreation Cardiff is known for its extensive parkland, with parks and other such green spaces covering around 10% of the city's total area. Cardiff's main park, Bute Park (which was formerly the castle grounds) extends northwards from the top of one of Cardiff's main shopping street (Queen Street); when combined with the adjacent Llandaff Fields and Pontcanna Fields to the north west it produces a massive open space skirting the River Taff. Other popular parks include Roath Park in the north, donated to the city by the 3rd Marquess of Bute in 1887 and which includes a very popular boating lake; Victoria Park, Cardiff's first official park; and Thompson's Park, formerly home to an aviary removed in the 1970s. Wild open spaces include Howardian Local Nature Reserve 32 acres (130,000 m2) of the lower Rhumney valley in Penylan noted for it's Orchids & Forest Farm Country Park over 150 acres (0.61 km2) along the river Taff in Whitchurch. The Cardiff Bay Barrage The Cardiff Bay Barrage lies across the mouth of Cardiff Bay, Wales between Queen Alexandra Dock and Penarth Head. It was one of the largest civil engineering projects in Europe during construction in the 1990s. History The concept of a barrage was first suggested in the 1980s as a way to help regenerate Cardiff's largely disused docklands. The barrage would create a large freshwater lake intended to attract investment into the docklands. The bay was part of the Bristol Channel which has the second largest tidal range in the world. As a result, for half of the day, the bay was empty of water, leaving large unappealing mudflats exposed. The barrage was consequently seen as central to the regeneration project. The government established the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation to build the barrage, and to redevelop the area as a whole. Opposition Opposition to the project came from many quarters. Some local politicians (including the area's MP, Rhodri Morgan, now First Minister of the Welsh Assembly) said the scheme would cost too much money. Local residents feared that their homes would be damaged by the permanently raised water level. Environmental groups strongly opposed construction because the bay was an important feeding ground for birds, which would be lost following impoundment. Construction Construction, which was undertaken by a Balfour Beatty / Costain Joint Venture,started in 1994, following the successful passage of the Cardiff Bay Barrage Act of 1993 through the UK Parliament. The bill included provisions for compensation for any homes damaged by the barrage and a large wetland habitat for birds further east down the Bristol Channel. Features include a fish pass to allow salmon to reach breeding grounds in the River Taff and three locks for maritime traffic. Construction was completed in 1999 and shortly afterwards the barrage came into effect. The impounding of the River Taff and River Ely created a 2 square kilometres (490 acres) freshwater lake. Today The barrage has played an important role in the regeneration of the area. Attractions such as the Wales Millennium Centre, the National Assembly for Wales, shopping and watersports have since moved onto the waterfront. In 2000 the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was dissolved, and the Welsh Assembly awarded a contract to Cardiff County Council to manage the barrage, as the Cardiff Harbour Authority (CHA). Sluices at the Cardiff Bay Barrage One of the major selling points of the proposed development was the opening up of a new pedestrian and cycle route across the barrage. This would not only enhance tourism on both sides but provide a pleasant and safe short-cut between Cardiff and Penarth, cutting two miles off the journey otherwise taken on the heavy-traffic roads further upstream. However, this benefit took years to materialise due to a lack of agreement between the derelict access land owners (Associated British Ports) and Cardiff Council. The "unfinished" barrage was the cause of much embarrassment to the Welsh Assembly.[citation needed] The Cardiff Harbour Authority have made significant progess in the creation of bay edge walkway and have redeveloped a large portion of the previously unaccesible bay periphery. The barrage was finally completed and open to the public on Monday 30 June 2008, allowing public access from Mermaid Quay to Penarth Marina. The Cardiff Harbour Authority has developed a Sea Angling zone on the outer breakwater arm. The barrage has been short listed for the British Construction Industry Award (BCIA) to find the 'Best of the Best' construction project over the last 20 years. The text on this HISTORY page is covered by the following licence http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Text_of_the_GNU_Free_Documentation_License0Cardiff BayChart, Bristol Channel approaches to Cardiff, 2011Chart, Cardiff Docks and Bay 2011Chart, approaches to Cardiff, 20112.Entrance to Cardiff Bay, through the Barrage Locks1.Barrage Control TowerCardiff Barrage from the SouthCardiff Bay3.Looking out over Cardiff Bay from the Visitors MooringsSouth West Graving Dock. There are four finger pontoons at the far end3a.Mermaid Quay Visitors MooringsNorth East Graving Dock. Not the tumblehome of the dock walls; unsuitable for mooring3b.Mermaid Quay, pontoon moorings, Cardiff Bay4.Lock in to Penarth Marina6.Small Craft Moorings in R.Ely5.Penarth Marina5a.Penarth MarinaCovers 4 Allhttp://www.covers4all.co.ukNationwide Boatcovers & Frame Maker, Repairs For All Types of Boats, Covers, Bimini's, Bespoke Outdoor Covers, Cushion Solutions, Boom Covers, Repairs UndertakenCovers 4 All23 West TerracePenarthSouth WalesCF64 2TXUK051.4392306-3.1798804Covers 4 All23 West TerracePenarthSouth WalesCF64 2TXUKCovers 4 [email protected] [email protected] 694557Portishead Small Boat & Sea Angling Clubhttp://www.portishead-small-boat-sac.co.ukSmall Boat & Sea Angling ClubPortishead Small Boat & Sea Angling ClubUK0Portishead Small Boat & Sea Angling ClubUKPortishead Small Boat & Sea Angling [email protected][email protected] Boat Repairshttp://www.ggfboatrepairs.co.ukGGF Boat Repairs, Structural Repairs in GRP, Boat BuildersGGF Boat Repairs3-4 Abergarw Service StationNew RoadBrynmenynCF32 9LLBridgendCardiffUK051.5529214-3.5746415GGF Boat Repairs3-4 Abergarw Service StationNew RoadBrynmenynCF32 9LLBridgendCardiffUKGGF Boat [email protected] 720498/ 07795 [email protected] 720498/ 07795 085225Penarth Quay Marinahttp://www.quaymarinas.com340 Pontoon Berths, 24Hr Staffing, Fuel Pontoon, Showers, A Berth-Holders TV Lounge, Full Boatyard Services, Chandlers, 20T Hoist, Boat Sales, Boat & Engine Repairs, Sailmaking & Rigging Service, Food & Drink, RYA Training, Bicycle Hire, Wireless InternetPenarth Quay MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQVale of GlamorganWalesUK051.4456137-3.1690905Penarth Quay MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQVale of GlamorganWalesUKPenarth Quay [email protected] [email protected] 705021Tiger Bay Training Schoolhttp://www.tigerbaytraining.co.ukRYA Sail & Powerboat Training & Equipment Specialists, Charters, Cruising HolidaysTiger Bay Training SchoolHarbour Master's OfficePenarth MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQSouth GlamorganUK051.4456137-3.1690905Tiger Bay Training SchoolHarbour Master's OfficePenarth MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQSouth GlamorganUKTiger Bay Training [email protected] [email protected] 711551Taylor Marine Engineering LtdMarine EngineeringTaylor Marine Engineering LtdCanal ParadeCardiffSouth GlamorganCF10 5HJUK051.4722236-3.1738183Taylor Marine Engineering LtdCanal ParadeCardiffSouth GlamorganCF10 5HJUKTaylor Marine Engineering Ltd02920 48145602920 481456Walton Marine Ltdhttp://www.waltonmarine.co.ukBoat SalesWalton Marine LtdEly HarbourCardiff MarinaGrangetownCF11 0JLCardiffWalesUK051.4608605-3.1893755Walton Marine LtdEly HarbourCardiff MarinaGrangetownCF11 0JLCardiffWalesUKWalton Marine [email protected] [email protected] 236000T.A. Reed LtdMarine Consultants & ServicesT.A. Reed Ltd9 Rannoch DriveCyncoedCardiffCF23 6LPSouth GlamorganUK051.5165633-3.1666645T.A. Reed Ltd9 Rannoch DriveCyncoedCardiffCF23 6LPSouth GlamorganUKT.A. Reed Ltd02920 76158802920 761588Diving & Marine Engineering LtdDiving & Marine Engineering ServicesDiving & Marine Engineering Ltd3 Vale Enterprise CentreHayes RoadSullyCF64 5SYPenarthVale of GlamorganUK051.4069346-3.2272493Diving & Marine Engineering Ltd3 Vale Enterprise CentreHayes RoadSullyCF64 5SYPenarthVale of GlamorganUKDiving & Marine Engineering Ltd01446 72155301446 721553Diving Dragonshttp://www.divingdragons.co.ukScuba Diving Lessons, Boat Trips, Social Events - Comedy & Curry NightDiving DragonsWest CardiffSouth WalesUK051.5000058-3.2086368Diving DragonsWest CardiffSouth WalesUKDiving Dragons02920 59390002920 593900Anchorman Boat Charterhttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat CharterAnchorman Boat CharterPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4456072-3.1691069Anchorman Boat CharterPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKAnchorman Boat [email protected] [email protected] 403168Benjoma 2 Charter Boathttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat CharterBenjoma 2 Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4456072-3.1691069Benjoma 2 Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKBenjoma 2 Charter [email protected] [email protected] 272500Chara Charter Boathttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat CharterChara Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4456072-3.1691069Chara Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKChara Charter [email protected] [email protected] 605661Cardiff Bay Boat Saleshttp://www.cardiffbayboatsales.co.ukBoat Sales & Brokerage - Sail & PowerCardiff Bay Boat SalesCompass HousePenarth MarinaCF64 1TTVale of GlamorganWalesUK051.4444703-3.1732515Cardiff Bay Boat SalesCompass HousePenarth MarinaCF64 1TTVale of GlamorganWalesUKCardiff Bay Boat [email protected] 707331/ 07774 [email protected] 707331/ 07774 120009Lady Helen Chartershttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat ChartersLady Helen ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4456072-3.1691069Lady Helen ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKLady Helen [email protected] [email protected] 001894Escape Boat Chartershttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat ChartersEscape Boat ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4456072-3.1691069Escape Boat ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKEscape Boat [email protected] [email protected] 660488Whitewater Chartershttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat ChartersWhitewater ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4452613-3.172929Whitewater ChartersPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKWhitewater [email protected] [email protected] 710815Marinescenehttp://www.marinescene.co.ukBoat SuppliesMarinesceneCrown HouseWindsor RoadPenarthCF64 1JGCardiffUK051.4440521-3.1861889MarinesceneCrown HouseWindsor RoadPenarthCF64 [email protected] 705700/[email protected] 705700/20705780Cardiff Marine Serviceshttp://www.cardiffmarineservices.comSkilled & Knowledgable Workforce of Marine Engineers, Electricians, Rigging Specialists, Boat Lifting, Insurance Work, Preperation & Commissioning WorkCardiff Marine ServicesCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUK051.4578225-3.1991027Cardiff Marine ServicesCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUKCardiff Marine Services02920 34345902920 343459Cardiff Yacht Clubhttp://www.cardiffyachtclub.orgSailing Club, Visitors Pontoon, Slipway, Hoist, RYA Training Courses, Fishing ClubCardiff Yacht ClubWindsor EsplanadeButetownCardiffCF10 5BGUK051.4588889-3.1727778Cardiff Yacht ClubWindsor EsplanadeButetownCardiffCF10 5BGUKCardiff Yacht [email protected] [email protected] 463697Cardiff Bay Yacht Clubhttp://www.cbyc.co.ukClub & Resaurant, Cruising, Angling, Sea Training Courses, Dinghy SailingCardiff Bay Yacht ClubThe ClubhouseFerry RoadCF11 0JLCardiffWalesUK051.4482139-3.1750487Cardiff Bay Yacht ClubThe ClubhouseFerry RoadCF11 0JLCardiffWalesUKCardiff Bay Yacht [email protected] 666627 /[email protected] 666627 /226575Marine Techniqueshttp://www.marine-techniques.co.uk/sailmakers.htmSailmakers & Much MoreMarine Techniques5 Fox's LaneTR11 4DSFalmouthCornwallUK050.1478502-5.0679557Marine Techniques5 Fox's LaneTR11 4DSFalmouthCornwallUKMarine [email protected] [email protected] 211168Penarth Yacht Clubhttp://www.penarthyachtclub.comClubhouse Based in Beautiful Victorian Building, Sailing, Rowing, Snooker, Social Events, RYA Training Centre, Cadets & AdultsPenarth Yacht ClubThe EsplanadePenarthGlamorganCF64 3AUUK051.4328275-3.1688026Penarth Yacht ClubThe EsplanadePenarthGlamorganCF64 3AUUKPenarth Yacht Club02920 70819602920 708196Cardiff ScubaScuba DivingCardiff Scuba181 Whitchurch RoadCardiffCF24 3JRUK051.5040104-3.1959775Cardiff Scuba181 Whitchurch RoadCardiffCF24 3JRUKCardiff [email protected] [email protected] 615161Bristol Channel Diving Serviceshttp://www.neilbrock.co.ukDiving Training & Courses, Diver Services, Shop PremisesBristol Channel Diving ServicesUnit 3 The Timber YardEast Moors RoadCardiffCF24 5EEUK051.4756264-3.1600964Bristol Channel Diving ServicesUnit 3 The Timber YardEast Moors RoadCardiffCF24 5EEUKBristol Channel Diving [email protected] [email protected] 464846Powell Marine Surveyorshttp://www.powellmarinesurveyors.co.ukMarine Surveyors - GRP Vessels, Moisture Meter, NDTPowell Marine Surveyors7 Wellfield RoadCardiffSouth GlamorganCF24 3NZUK051.4947885-3.1660107Powell Marine Surveyors7 Wellfield RoadCardiffSouth GlamorganCF24 3NZUKPowell Marine [email protected] [email protected] 512159Small Craft Surveys South Waleshttp://www.smallcraftsurveys.co.ukYacht & Powerboat Surveys, Services For Wood, GRP, Steel, Pre Purchase, Valuation, Condition SurveysSmall Craft Surveys South WalesS/Y Christopher RobinCardiff Bay Yacht ClubFerry RoadCF11 0JLCardiffUK051.4482139-3.1750487Small Craft Surveys South WalesS/Y Christopher RobinCardiff Bay Yacht ClubFerry RoadCF11 0JLCardiffUKSmall Craft Surveys South [email protected] [email protected] 713106Porthcawl Insurance Ltdwww.porthcawl-insurance.co.ukPorthcawl Insurance Ltd43 Mary StreetPorthcawlMid GlamorganCF36 3YNCardiffUK051.4779724-3.7055046Porthcawl Insurance Ltd43 Mary StreetPorthcawlMid GlamorganCF36 3YNCardiffUKPorthcawl Insurance [email protected] [email protected] 784866Marine Scenehttp://www.marinescene.co.ukDiscount marine chandlery, yacht equipment and boat supplies. Our shop sells everything a boat owner needs, from life jackets and sailing clothes to admiralty charts. Lowest price guaranteed. Based in Penarth, South Wales, UK.Marine SceneCrown HouseWindsor RoadPenarthCF64 1JGCardiffVale of GlamorganUK051.4440521-3.1861889Marine SceneCrown HouseWindsor RoadPenarthCF64 1JGCardiffVale of GlamorganUKMarine [email protected] 2070 [email protected] 2070 5700Drascombe Associationhttp://www.drascombe-association.org.uk/index.phpThe Drascombe Association on the WebThe Drascombe Association is a group of enthusiasts dedicated to the traditional-style sailing boats designed by the late John Watkinson. Over 5000 Drascombes of all types have been built since the first Lugger was launched in 1966. They are all simple, rugged, and seakindly.Visit for news, information and photos relating to these boatsDrascombe AssociationOnline onlywebsiteUK0Drascombe AssociationOnline onlywebsiteUKDrascombe AssociationN/AN/ABay Marine Insurancebaymarineinsurance.co.ukMarine Insurance for yachts, dinghies, power boats, cruisers, RIB and Inland Waterways and Charter Vessels. Also Marine Trades.Bay Marine InsuranceCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCARDIFFCF11 8TUCF11 8TUSouth GlamorganUK051.45775-3.199039Bay Marine InsuranceCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCARDIFFCF11 8TUCF11 8TUSouth GlamorganUKBay Marine [email protected]@baymarineinsurance.co.uk442920235756AM Charterhttp://www.am-charter.comWe organize yacht charters in the most fascinating and exclusive holiday destinations having the best luxury boats (sail&power) available on the market. We offer our customers free and professional assistance and advice, access to special offers and discounts and highly qualified crew.Our goal is to make you save your time and money, making your holiday a unique experience in total relax and comfort, providing you with 5* service.Choose your boat, get on board and start to explore breathtaking horizons: we will take care of all the rest!AM CharterVia Aurelia km 67Civitavecchia00053CivitavecchiaRMIT042.061861411.8146822AM CharterVia Aurelia km 67Civitavecchia00053CivitavecchiaRMITAM [email protected]@am-charter.com00390766501217Bristol Channel Marine Surveyswww.bristolchannelmarinesurveys.comWe supply Marine Surveying Services covering all vessel materials (Wood,GRP, Steel and Ferro-Cement).With competitive rates we offer a range services to meet all requirements. ​Pre-Purchase Surveys.Valuation Reports.Insurance Surveys.Inspection Of Work Damage Reports.Bristol Channel Marine Surveys28 Connaught RoadRoathCF24 3PUCardiffCardiffUK051.4914405-3.1609011Bristol Channel Marine Surveys28 Connaught RoadRoathCF24 3PUCardiffCardiffUKBristol Channel Marine [email protected]@hotmail.co.uk02922414112BJ Marinehttp://bjmarine.net/Yacht BrokerageBJ MarineCompass HousePenarth MarinaCF64 1TTCardiffUK051.444445-3.1732294BJ MarineCompass HousePenarth MarinaCF64 1TTCardiffUKBJ Marine029 2070 7331029 2070 7331Cambrian MarinePontoon Berthing, Boatyard & Repair Services, Rigging, Boat Storage Ashore, Slipway With Boat Hoist, Fuel Berth ServiceCambrian MarineEly Tidal HarbourFerry RoadGrangetownCF11 0JLCardiffSouth WalesUK051.4569689-3.1841666Cambrian MarineEly Tidal HarbourFerry RoadGrangetownCF11 0JLCardiffSouth WalesUKCambrian Marine02920 34345902920 343459Ocean Marine Grouphttp://www.cardiffmarinevillage.com/ocean-marine-groupYacht Charters, Luxury Yacht Charters, Management, Brokerage, Bareboat, Skippered & Fully Crewed Charters - Monohulls, Catamarans, Powerboats, Superyachts.Ocean Marine GroupUnit 8 Cardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUK051.4578225-3.1991027Ocean Marine GroupUnit 8 Cardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUKOcean Marine [email protected] 787196/ 0121 [email protected] 787196/ 0121 2888212Lobster Bob Ltdhttp://www.lobsterbobsurfwear.co.ukSailing Gear, Boat Wear, Footwear, Surfing Attire & Lots MoreLobster Bob Ltd105-107 Queen StCF10 2BGCardiffWalesUK051.4827788-3.1735195Lobster Bob Ltd105-107 Queen StCF10 2BGCardiffWalesUKLobster Bob [email protected] [email protected] 644443West Point MarineInboards & Outboards Service, Sale & Repairs, Supply & Fit, Spare Parts For All EnginesWest Point MarineEly HarbourFerry RoadCardiff BayCF11 0JLCardiffUK051.4608605-3.1893755West Point MarineEly HarbourFerry RoadCardiff BayCF11 0JLCardiffUKWest Point Marine02920 273400/ 07973 29600802920 273400/ 07973 296008Severn Sailshttp://severnsails.co.ukSailmakers, Repairs & Alterations, Covers, Canopies, Re-Proofing, Winter Servicing of Sails, Industrial Sewing, Bespoke Canvas WorkSevern SailsCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUK051.4578225-3.1991027Severn SailsCardiff Marine VillagePenarth RoadCardiffCF11 8TUUKSevern [email protected] 787199/ 07736 [email protected] 787199/ 07736 112842Dev-Ocean Charter Boathttp://www.quaymarinas.comAngling Boat CharterDev-Ocean Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUK051.4447799-3.1746626Dev-Ocean Charter BoatPenarth QuaysPenarthVale of GlamorganCF64 1TQCardiffUKDev-Ocean Charter [email protected] [email protected] 748701Barry Yacht Clubhttp://www.barryyachtclub.co.ukClubhouse, Social & Sailing Events, Cadets, RYA Training - A Very Friendly ClubBarry Yacht ClubThe Pier Head DocksBarryVale of GlamorganCF63 5QSCardiffUK051.3926975-3.2636915Barry Yacht ClubThe Pier Head DocksBarryVale of GlamorganCF63 5QSCardiffUKBarry Yacht [email protected] [email protected] 735511YSC Surveys Ltdwww.yscsurveys.co.ukYacht and Small Craft SurveysServices include:Pre-purchase surveysInsurance surveysGeneral condition surveysDamage surveysProject managementYSC Surveys LtdHarbour Masters OfficePenarth MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQCardiffGlamorganUK051.4481537-3.1853846YSC Surveys LtdHarbour Masters OfficePenarth MarinaPenarthCF64 1TQCardiffGlamorganUKYSC Surveys [email protected]@yscsurveys.co.ukCardiff Yacht Company Limitedwww.cardiffyacht.co.ukThe company offers:* skippered charter,* coaching on the yacht for RYA qualifications,* cruises/events/regattas/local racing,* RYA theory courses including Day Skipper and Coastal Skipper and RYA interactive course for the VHF radio and basic navigation.* and lastly projects - some examples include purchase, refit, and hull repairsCardiff Yacht Company is working with IMPROOV consultancy on creating cutting edge leadership development, See website for further updatesA full menu and programme of services appears on the company website www.cardiffyacht.co.ukCardiff Yacht Company Limited4 Coed Y BrochChurch VillageCF38 1BQPontypriddUK051.5623983-3.3221198Cardiff Yacht Company Limited4 Coed Y BrochChurch VillageCF38 1BQPontypriddUKCardiff Yacht Company [email protected] [email protected] 151561Don Thomson2015-04-07T08:01:00+01:00Update 2015These notes were reviewed by Don in April 2015. After a sailing visit, some additional notes have been added about the Mermaid Quay area.-1Don Thomson2013-02-15T10:51:00+00:00Updated 2013The notes for Cardiff Bay were updated by Don T on the 15th February 2013. They have come a long way since nineties when the only option here was Penarth Marina. The choices of where to park your boat are good, the facilities at the marinas excellent and, compared to the South Coast, reasonably priced (those shown are those for the 2013 season). The problem is the remoteness of the marinas (the fact that Penarth Marina does bike hire should give you a clue) and you should be prepared to spend on taxis.-1Don Thomson2016-04-19T08:13:00+01:00Update Spring 2016These notes were reviewed by Don in April 2016. Only changes were to the prices.-1Skipperjeff342015-04-20T13:00:00+01:00Penarth PortwayPenarth Quays Marina has without doubt the best all round facilities in the Cardiff Bay area, with no problems living aboard for extended periods either. We also have the very well regarded Pier64 restaurant & Tesco is very close nearby as well.-1Don Thomson2018-04-26T09:35:00+01:00UPDATE SPRING 2018No changes apart from the prices-1Don Thomson 32022-09-23T11:37:00+01:00UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2022I reviewed these notes in September 2022. The yacht Club and Marina set ups continue to thrive but as far as Mermaid Quay is concerned you get the less services than you would in a motorway services car park - except that you have to pay to park.-1Don Thomson 32021-09-24T10:08:00+01:00UPDATE SUMMER 2021I reviewed these notes in September 2021. There appears to be a new RYA Sailing School on the East wall of the Bay but no facilities there for visitors.-1HighWater2026-07-10T02:02:00false10.113501464012593falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-10T08:12:00false3.0877498406000972falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-10T14:35:00false10.021823208702472falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-10T20:53:00false3.1692970686472273falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-11T03:18:00false10.266511929731729falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-11T09:33:00false2.9285470785906784falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-11T15:52:00false10.372222202108333falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-11T22:13:00false2.7831734681274671falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-12T04:30:00false10.650841636069666falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-12T10:48:00false2.5112518800238579falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-12T17:02:00false10.943920017301053falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-12T23:24:00false2.2634884876334218falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-13T05:37:00false11.148655176268083falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-13T11:55:00false2.0060736466640572falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-13T18:04:00false11.557033352213269falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-14T00:28:00false1.7574927867092633falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-14T06:38:00false11.638463835798307falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-14T12:55:00false1.5310916336974834falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-14T19:00:00false12.080335572942422falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-15T01:28:00false1.3315072131763028falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-15T07:33:00false12.023402652968997falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-15T13:49:00false1.1614736187278771falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-15T19:52:00false12.434159401822521falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-16T02:21:00false1.0417050286431668falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-16T08:22:00false12.2362827092981falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-16T14:38:00false0.962871668510963falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-16T20:39:00false12.572950118306935falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-10T02:02:00false10.113501464012593falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-10T08:12:00false3.0877498406000972falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-10T14:35:00false10.021823208702472falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-10T20:53:00false3.1692970686472273falsefalse2026-07-10T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-11T03:18:00false10.266511929731729falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-11T09:33:00false2.9285470785906784falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-11T15:52:00false10.372222202108333falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-11T22:13:00false2.7831734681274671falsefalse2026-07-11T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-12T04:30:00false10.650841636069666falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-12T10:48:00false2.5112518800238579falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-12T17:02:00false10.943920017301053falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-12T23:24:00false2.2634884876334218falsefalse2026-07-12T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-13T05:37:00false11.148655176268083falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-13T11:55:00false2.0060736466640572falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-13T18:04:00false11.557033352213269falsefalse2026-07-13T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-14T00:28:00false1.7574927867092633falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-14T06:38:00false11.638463835798307falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-14T12:55:00false1.5310916336974834falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-14T19:00:00false12.080335572942422falsefalse2026-07-14T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-15T01:28:00false1.3315072131763028falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-15T07:33:00false12.023402652968997falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-15T13:49:00false1.1614736187278771falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-15T19:52:00false12.434159401822521falsefalse2026-07-15T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-16T02:21:00false1.0417050286431668falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-16T08:22:00false12.2362827092981falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00LowWater2026-07-16T14:38:00false0.962871668510963falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00HighWater2026-07-16T20:39:00false12.572950118306935falsefalse2026-07-16T00:00:00

  Berthing

Once you are through the locks and into this vast expanse of freshwater,

...... visiting yachtsmen or motorboaters have the following mooring options: Penarth Marina, Cardiff Bay Yacht Club, Cardiff Marina, Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Yacht Club. Full details are now provided, including visitors prices.

Anchoring looks tempting on studying the chart, but is not an option (see further berthing section.)

Penarth Marina

The long-established Penarth Marina has been aquired by the Boatfolk organisation and is the very first you will come to; it lies immediately to port as you exit the barrage locks. Originally it was necessary to lock in and out of the Marina, and the lock is still there and sometimes occasionally used if the water levels in Cardiff Bay drop too much. In general though this lock is now left open for free flow at all times, but you will still need to contact the Marina before you enter as they use one of the gates as a pedestrain bridge.

You can call the Marina on VHF channel 80, callsign Penarth Marina, to arrange your entry, or you can telephone 02920 705021.

Normally vessels will be able to proceed straight through the lock into the marina basin. Visiting vessels may be asked to wait on a reception pontoon in the lock where they will be met by marina staff and allocated a berth. Skippers should be aware that a slight flow may be experienced within the marina lock barrel.

Entry to the Marina lock is controlled by traffic signals with the following meanings, double red = danger keep clear of lock, single red = lock in use, keep clear, green = enter lock on receiving instructions from staff.

Short-term berthing fees here (2022) work out at £3.50 per metre per night, with a minimum of £15. This is a full service Marina, and its facilities are covered shortly. A link to Penarth Marina's website is provided below:


Cardiff Bay Yacht Club


A little bit further into the River Ely, on the Northern bank lies the pretty new and recently renamed Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. Since the barrage was completed there is water here at all states of the tide, and the club maintain pontoons. Their visitors pontoon is the first when you come to in the River Ely on your starboard side They will charge you £18 per day to use that and a bit extra if you want shore power. There are showers in the club and you will be asked for a £10 deposit for a gate key. They also have a bar and restaurant.

You will need to make prior arrangements with the club for using this pontoon, and you can telephone the Office on 029 2066 6627, or the clubhouse on 029 2022 6575. A link to their website is also provided below:

http://www.cbyc.co.uk/


Cardiff Marina

A new Marina, Cardiff Marina, has been established further up the River Ely before you reach the fixed bridge. It is on the starboard side (North) and provides pontoon berths within the River. Obviously since the barrage was built the River is not tidal.

Taking a fairly central course down the River Ely will bring you to their pontoons after you have completed passing all the pontoons belonging to the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. They advise when in the River to keep at least 8 m away from the wall at all times because there is a step under the waterline.


They can be contacted on 029 2034 3459, and a link is provided to their website below:

http://www.themarinegroup.co.uk/cardiff/marina

This is another full service Marina, and its facilities are covered shortly. Short-term visitors berths work out at £3.12 per metre per day (2022) with an extra charge for electricity (you get cards from the office)


Cardiff Yacht Club

Cardiff Yacht Club has its premises and moorings in the north-western corner of Cardiff Bay. This club has pontoon berths dredged to 2.5 m, and reserves some spaces for visitors with boats up to 37' only. The club is welcoming and friendly and should you wish to use their facilities it would probably be best to contact them in advance. They do not charge for mooring but ask that visitors support the Club bar. They are happy for visitors to use the club toilets and showers when Club members are available to let them in. If you arrive late you may well find the Club locked up. You can telephone them on 02920 463697, and a link to their website is provided below:

http://www.cardiffyachtclub.org/

Mermaid Quay and the Graving Docks

There are shortstay facilities available at Mermaid Quay right at the north end of Cardiff Bay, absolutely central for the city. These pontoons are seen quite clearly in the photo gallery, and are for daytime use.

You simply arrive and tie up, put some money in a pay and display type machine which gives you a ticket. On the ticket is your access number for the gate.

The pontoons at Mermaid Quay and visitors berths in the Graving Docks at the North end of the bay are run by the harbour authorities and are the least attractive of the facilities available in the bay. They consist purely as places to tie up; they were installed with facilities for water and shore power but those facilities are not connected up. On the pontoons payment is made by a pay and display machine and the entry code for the gate is given on the ticket supplied; within the South Westerly of the graving docks the pay and display machine has broken down and (if local information is correct) the cost of repairing/replacing it outweighs the revenue provided by it so it will remain broken. Berthing there is free and the shore power and water has been disconnected. The central of the three docks is close for access and the North Easterly one has a set of isolated pontoons floating in the middle. Toilets are shared with the general public. The Mermaid Quay pontoons do not permit longer than a 24 hour stop (for £24) but it is not somewhere one would want to stop for more than 24 hours. Ideal for a "Run ashore" from the North Somerset Coast or Bristol.


Conclusion:

I think it would be fair to say that this whole Cardiff Bay area is a rapidly developing (with over 1000 resident boats already), and an extremely appealing expanse of clean water. Once within the Mariner will escape all the problems associated with the huge tidal ranges in the Bristol Channel. Facilities are being enhanced and developed faster than they can be put on the latest charts, and we can expect more. The authorities who planned and executed the Cardiff Bay scheme are to be congratulated.

If you were thinking that the huge area of enclosed water

..... formed by the Cardiff barrage would make a great spot to anchor.... think again.

The following extract is from a very interesting weblog that covers the journeys of a New Zealand couple through the UK canals, Bristol Channel area, across the Irish Sea, and the Irish inland waterways.


"By 1.30pm we were reporting to the Cardiff Tidal Barrage and in another hour we had locked through, anchored in a quiet spot and put on the kettle while we figured out what to do next.

Cardiff Bay Harbour has recently been re-developed as a recreational area. The entire bay has been penned as a fresh water lake behind an extensive tidal barrage. Obviously an enormous amount of money has been spent converting the old wharf areas into pedestrian precincts with bars, restaurants, museums etc. Three huge locks allow most-tide entrance from the Bristol Channel to the harbour, and huge underwater pipes continually aerate the water to maintain the water quality in.

As we entered we had noticed strange up-wellings, like whirlpools, in the water, but none of our books or charts made reference to them, so we were able only to make uneducated guesses about their cause. Now we know… In minutes the Harbour police arrived.

Mooring is strictly prohibited anywhere in the harbour, since you might inadvertently pick up one of these huge aerating pipes! However, despite this restriction, visitors are well provided for. The visitors' pontoon (to which we were directed to spend the night in solitary splendour) is right in the middle of the town. Payment was by a Pay & Display system – one Pound per hour, regardless of the size of your boat. As we sat on deck, enjoying the evening sunshine with our pre-prandial glasses of wine and with the cottage pie cooking in the oven, we wondered idly about the thoughts of the clients of the extraordinarily upper-class restaurant beside us, as they sipped their champers, enjoyed their oyster cocktails and looked down on these New Zealand gypsies! "

  Facilities  

Marinas and Mooring

Penarth Quay Marina

 

Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. CF64 1TQ

Cardiff Yacht Club

 

Windsor Esplanade, Butetown, Cardiff, CF10 5BG

Cambrian Marine

 

Ely Tidal Harbour, Ferry Road, Grangetown, Cardiff, South Wales. CF11 0JL

  Facilities

Penarth Marina

The facilities at Penarth Marina include water and electricity (extra charge) on all the pontoons, with 340 berths. Security is handled by special key fobs or pin numbers for visitors, with access being controlled to the pontoons and the shoreside facilities. Staff are on duty 24 hours a day.

BT openzone provides WiFi coverage in the Marina.

The fuel berth supplies diesel and petrol while chandlery (gas bottles), boat and engine repairs, sailmaking, and rigging services are available on site. The marina can lift boats of up to 20 tonnes and provide full boatyard services.

Holding Tank pumpouts are handled by the harbour authority adjacent to the barrage locks.

Provisioning is easy enough with a Tesco's supermarket within a 10 minutes walk, and you can even hire bicycles from the Marina office.

A couple of restaurants will be found right next to the Marina. All other town facilities will be found in Penarth, a long established holiday resort town. This is about 10 minutes walk away from this Marina. In 2011 a cafe/restaurant (called Pier 64)was opened in the marina and this suplies meals/snacks throughout the day and has an alcohol licence.


Cardiff Marina

Water and electricity (payment cards) are available on the pontoons, with security handled by CCTV. Outside of office hours a key fob entry system is used. The office is open 9 AM to 5 PM weekdays, and Saturday's 9 AM to 1 PM.

The new toilet and shower block in the centre of the Marina is open 24 hours a day for berth holders.

Free WiFi is available to all berths, the key available at the Marina office.

Diesel fuel is available but only during office hours, and tank pump out facilities are available. A platform Crane especially suitable for mast work is on site, and can also lift smallish boats up to 4.5 tonnes.

A water bus pick up point will be in operation shortly directly from the marina's pontoon D for a quick and easy way to get to the city, while for provisioning there are several nearby supermarkets the nearest only being a few minutes walk away. There are regular buses into town and trains from the station just across the river. it's a fair old hike into town so you will need to use those.

There is now a co-located restaurant in operation. .

General City Facilities

Cardiff being the capital city of Wales can offer just about any facility you would expect to find. The Marinas are somewhat remote from the city as is the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club. Bicycle hire or water bus will get you there. Cardiff Yacht Club is somewhat closer to the action, while Mermaid Quay is right on a brand-new waterfront development. Should you care to investigate further this is what you will find:

"Cardiff is one of the top ten retail destinations in the UK, with two main shopping streets (Queen Street and St. Mary Street), and three main shopping arcades; St. David's Centre, Queens Arcade and the Capitol Centre. The current expansion of St. David's Centre as part of the St. David's 2 project will see it become one of the largest shopping centres in the United Kingdom. As well as the modern shopping arcades, the city is also home to many Victorian shopping centres, such as High Street Arcade, Castle Arcade, Wyndham Arcade, Royal Arcade and Morgan Arcade. Also of note is The Hayes, home to Spillers Records, the world's oldest record shop. Cardiff has a number of markets, including the vast Victorian indoor Cardiff Central Market and the newly-established Riverside Community Market, which specialises in locally-produced organic produce. Several out-of-town retail parks exist, such as Newport Road, Culverhouse Cross, Cardiff Gate and Cardiff Bay."

For crew changes, or if you are considering keeping your boat here, transport connections are excellent.

Railway

Cardiff Central Station provides direct InterCity links to nearby Newport and other major cities such as Bristol, Birmingham, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle upon Tyne, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Cardiff Airport

Domestic and international air links to Cardiff and South & West Wales are provided from Cardiff Airport (CWL), the only international airport in Wales. The airport is situated in the village of Rhoose, 10 miles (16 km) west of the city. There are regular bus services linking the airport with the Cardiff Central Bus Station as well as a train service from Rhoose Cardiff International Airport railway station to Cardiff Central.

Inter City Buses

National Express provides direct services to other major cities, as well as to Swansea and Merthyr Tydfil. Megabus operates frequent discounted services to London.


Trailer Sailers

Considering the attractions of the non tidal Cardiff Bay for trailer sailers there is a distinct lack of launching sites. This is a real shame because the fast running waters and massive tidal range of the Bristol Channel are not really suitable or safe for sailing dinghies etc. In fact we have deliberately refrained from covering some launching sites for this reason.

Cardiff Bay Yacht Club has an excellent launching ramp, but this is available to members only, with no temporary membership available.

It is to be hoped that further slipways will be developed, and any info concerning this would be appreciated.

  What to Do  

Boatyards & Boatyard Services

GGF Boat Repairs

 

3-4 Abergarw Service Station, New Road, Brynmenyn, Bridgend, Cardiff. CF32 9LL

Cardiff Marine Services

 

Cardiff Marine Village, Penarth Road, Cardiff, CF11 8TU

Chandlers

Marinescene

 

Crown House, Windsor Road, Penarth, Cardiff, CF64 1JG

Marine Scene

 

Crown House, Windsor Road, Penarth, Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan. CF64 1JG

  What to Do

The two marinas and the Cardiff Bay Yacht Club are quite a way from the city of Cardiff, but Penarth Marina is within very easy distance of Penarth town, a long established seaside resort. Unfortunately from its heyday of day time steamer trips from Minehead and Clevedon and a lively beach front it has become a mainly dormitory town and one can find oneself wandering aimlessly along residential streets looking for some signs of life; you are better off going for the Cardiff City Centre option.

Cardiff Marina and Cardiff Bay Yacht Club are reasonably close to local facilities but still a good hike into the bright lights.

Otherwise if you can organise transport to Cardiff city centre there is a huge choice available. Cardiff has a strong nightlife and is home to many bars, pubs and clubs. Most clubs and bars are situated in the city centre, especially St. Mary's Street, and more recently Cardiff Bay has built up a strong night scene, with many modern bars & restaurants. The Brewery Quarter on St. Mary's Street is a recently developed venue for bars and restaurant with a central courtyard. Charles Street is also a popular part of the city.

The area between Cardiff Bay and the City (the old "Tiger Bay") is now mainly residential and many of the old shops of Bute Street are boarded up; your choice is to remain in the well developed area of the Bay (loads of eateries and bars) or lift and shift to the city in the knowledge that at chucking out time you will have to join the madding throng for a taxi back to wherever you've moored your boat

As usual it is not our place to delve too deeply, but to leave you with some links for your perusal:

Pubs Penarth (read the reviews before you make a choice)

Penarth pubs and bars; pubs in Penarth,

Restaurants Penarth and Cardiff

Restaurants in Penarth - Updated September 2022

Pubs Cardiff

Cardiff pubs and bars; pubs in Cardiff

  History  

History

Cardiff is the capital, largest city and most populous county of Wales. The city is Wales' chief commercial centre, the base for many national cultural and sporting institutions, the Welsh national media, and the seat of the National Assembly for Wales. According to recent estimates, the population of the unitary authority area is 321,000 and is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK. Cardiff is a significant tourist centre and the most popular visitor destination in Wales with 11.7 million visitors in 2006.

The city of Cardiff is the county town of the historic county of Glamorgan (and later South Glamorgan). Cardiff is part of the Eurocities network of the largest European cities. Cardiff Urban Area covers a slightly larger area, including Dinas Powys, Penarth and Radyr. A small town until the early 19th century, the city came to prominence as a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of industry in the region. Cardiff was made a city in 1905, and proclaimed capital of Wales in 1955. Since the 1990s Cardiff has seen significant development with a new waterfront area at Cardiff Bay which contains the new Welsh Assembly Building and the Wales Millennium Centre arts complex. The city centre is undergoing a major redevelopment. International sporting venues in the city include the Millennium Stadium (rugby union and football) and SWALEC Stadium (cricket).

Building of the docks

In 1793, John Crichton-Stuart, 2nd Marquess of Bute was born. He would spend his life building the Cardiff docks and would later be called "the creator of modern Cardiff". A twice-weekly boat service between Cardiff and Bristol was established in 1815, and in 1821, the Cardiff Gas Works was established.

The town grew rapidly from the 1830s onwards, when the Marquess of Bute built a dock which eventually linked to the Taff Vale Railway. Cardiff became the main port for exports of coal from the Cynon, Rhondda, and Rhymney valleys, and grew at a rate of nearly 80% per decade between 1840 and 1870. Much of the growth was due to migration from within and outside Wales: in 1841, a quarter of Cardiff's population were English-born and more than 10% had been born in Ireland. By the 1881 census, Cardiff had overtaken both Merthyr and Swansea to become the largest town in Wales. Cardiff's new status as the premier town in South Wales was confirmed when it was chosen as the site of the University College South Wales and Monmouthshire in 1893.

Cardiff faced a challenge in the 1880s when David Davies of Llandinam and the Barry Railway Company promoted the development of rival docks at Barry. Barry docks had the advantage of being accessible in all tides, and David Davies claimed that his venture would cause "grass to grow in the streets of Cardiff". From 1901 coal exports from Barry surpassed those from Cardiff, but the administration of the coal trade remained centred on Cardiff, in particular its Coal Exchange, where the price of coal on the British market was determined and the first million-pound deal was struck in 1907. The city also strengthened its industrial base with the decision of the owners of the Dowlais Ironworks in Merthyr (who would later form part of Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds) to build a new steelworks close to the docks at East Moors, which was opened on 4 February 1891 by Lord Bute.

Recreation

Cardiff is known for its extensive parkland, with parks and other such green spaces covering around 10% of the city's total area. Cardiff's main park, Bute Park (which was formerly the castle grounds) extends northwards from the top of one of Cardiff's main shopping street (Queen Street); when combined with the adjacent Llandaff Fields and Pontcanna Fields to the north west it produces a massive open space skirting the River Taff. Other popular parks include Roath Park in the north, donated to the city by the 3rd Marquess of Bute in 1887 and which includes a very popular boating lake; Victoria Park, Cardiff's first official park; and Thompson's Park, formerly home to an aviary removed in the 1970s. Wild open spaces include Howardian Local Nature Reserve 32 acres (130,000 m2) of the lower Rhumney valley in Penylan noted for it's Orchids & Forest Farm Country Park over 150 acres (0.61 km2) along the river Taff in Whitchurch.


The Cardiff Bay Barrage


The Cardiff Bay Barrage lies across the mouth of Cardiff Bay, Wales between Queen Alexandra Dock and Penarth Head. It was one of the largest civil engineering projects in Europe during construction in the 1990s.

History

The concept of a barrage was first suggested in the 1980s as a way to help regenerate Cardiff's largely disused docklands. The barrage would create a large freshwater lake intended to attract investment into the docklands. The bay was part of the Bristol Channel which has the second largest tidal range in the world. As a result, for half of the day, the bay was empty of water, leaving large unappealing mudflats exposed. The barrage was consequently seen as central to the regeneration project. The government established the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation to build the barrage, and to redevelop the area as a whole.

Opposition

Opposition to the project came from many quarters. Some local politicians (including the area's MP, Rhodri Morgan, now First Minister of the Welsh Assembly) said the scheme would cost too much money. Local residents feared that their homes would be damaged by the permanently raised water level. Environmental groups strongly opposed construction because the bay was an important feeding ground for birds, which would be lost following impoundment.

Construction

Construction, which was undertaken by a Balfour Beatty / Costain Joint Venture,started in 1994, following the successful passage of the Cardiff Bay Barrage Act of 1993 through the UK Parliament. The bill included provisions for compensation for any homes damaged by the barrage and a large wetland habitat for birds further east down the Bristol Channel. Features include a fish pass to allow salmon to reach breeding grounds in the River Taff and three locks for maritime traffic. Construction was completed in 1999 and shortly afterwards the barrage came into effect. The impounding of the River Taff and River Ely created a 2 square kilometres (490 acres) freshwater lake.

Today

The barrage has played an important role in the regeneration of the area. Attractions such as the Wales Millennium Centre, the National Assembly for Wales, shopping and watersports have since moved onto the waterfront. In 2000 the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was dissolved, and the Welsh Assembly awarded a contract to Cardiff County Council to manage the barrage, as the Cardiff Harbour Authority (CHA).
Sluices at the Cardiff Bay Barrage

One of the major selling points of the proposed development was the opening up of a new pedestrian and cycle route across the barrage. This would not only enhance tourism on both sides but provide a pleasant and safe short-cut between Cardiff and Penarth, cutting two miles off the journey otherwise taken on the heavy-traffic roads further upstream. However, this benefit took years to materialise due to a lack of agreement between the derelict access land owners (Associated British Ports) and Cardiff Council. The "unfinished" barrage was the cause of much embarrassment to the Welsh Assembly.[citation needed] The Cardiff Harbour Authority have made significant progess in the creation of bay edge walkway and have redeveloped a large portion of the previously unaccesible bay periphery. The barrage was finally completed and open to the public on Monday 30 June 2008, allowing public access from Mermaid Quay to Penarth Marina. The Cardiff Harbour Authority has developed a Sea Angling zone on the outer breakwater arm.

The barrage has been short listed for the British Construction Industry Award (BCIA) to find the 'Best of the Best' construction project over the last 20 years.

The text on this HISTORY page is covered by the following licence

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Text_of_the_GNU_Free_Documentation_License

Local Business

  Brokers/New Boat Sales

Walton Marine Ltd

 

Ely Harbour, Cardiff Marina, Grangetown, Cardiff, Wales. CF11 0JL

Cardiff Bay Boat Sales

 

Compass House, Penarth Marina, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. CF64 1TT

BJ Marine

 

Compass House, Penarth Marina, Cardiff, CF64 1TT

Ocean Marine Group

 

Unit 8 Cardiff Marine Village, Penarth Road, Cardiff, CF11 8TU

  Boat Charters

Tiger Bay Training School

 

Harbour Master's Office, Penarth Marina, Penarth, South Glamorgan, CF64 1TQ

Anchorman Boat Charter

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Benjoma 2 Charter Boat

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Chara Charter Boat

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Lady Helen Charters

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Escape Boat Charters

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Whitewater Charters

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

Cardiff Scuba

 

181 Whitchurch Road, Cardiff, CF24 3JR

AM Charter

 

Via Aurelia km 67, Civitavecchia, Civitavecchia, RM. 00053

Dev-Ocean Charter Boat

 

Penarth Quays, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF64 1TQ

  Divers/Diving and related services

Bristol Channel Diving Services

 

Unit 3 The Timber Yard, East Moors Road, Cardiff, CF24 5EE

  Eating and Drinking

Cardiff Bay Yacht Club

 

The Clubhouse, Ferry Road, Cardiff, Wales. CF11 0JL

Barry Yacht Club

 

The Pier Head Docks, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF63 5QS

  Marine Engineering

Taylor Marine Engineering Ltd

 

Canal Parade, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF10 5HJ

Diving & Marine Engineering Ltd

 

3 Vale Enterprise Centre, Hayes Road, Sully, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan. CF64 5SY

  Outboard Sales and Service

West Point Marine

 

Ely Harbour, Ferry Road, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, CF11 0JL

  Sea Schools

Penarth Yacht Club

 

The Esplanade, Penarth, Glamorgan, CF64 3AU

  Sailmakers, Repair & Covers

Severn Sails

 

Cardiff Marine Village, Penarth Road, Cardiff, CF11 8TU

  Yacht Survey and Designs

Marine Techniques

 

5 Fox's Lane, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 4DS

Powell Marine Surveyors

 

7 Wellfield Road, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF24 3NZ

Small Craft Surveys South Wales

 

S/Y Christopher Robin, Cardiff Bay Yacht Club, Ferry Road, Cardiff, CF11 0JL

YSC Surveys Ltd

 

Harbour Masters Office, Penarth Marina, Penarth, Cardiff, Glamorgan. CF64 1TQ

Insurance

Porthcawl Insurance Ltd

 

43 Mary Street, Porthcawl, Mid Glamorgan, Cardiff, CF36 3YN

Bay Marine Insurance

 

Cardiff Marine Village, Penarth Road, CARDIFF, CF11 8TU, South Glamorgan. CF11 8TU

Other-Businesses

Covers 4 All

 

23 West Terrace, Penarth, South Wales, CF64 2TX

T.A. Reed Ltd

 

9 Rannoch Drive, Cyncoed, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF23 6LP

Lobster Bob Ltd

 

105-107 Queen St, Cardiff, Wales. CF10 2BG

Tide Information for cardiff-marinas

HW Penarth=Dover -0430 MHWS 12.2m, MHWN 9.4m, MLWN 3.6m, MLWS 0.9m
Please note: It is the user's responsibility to ensure that the data is suitable for their intended purpose. VisitMyHarbour must not be used by vessels for navigation.

July 2026

Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday  5
5
Monday  6
6
Tuesday  7
7
Wednesday  8
8
Thursday  9
9
Friday  10
10
HW   02:02   10.1M
LW   08:12   3.1M
HW   14:35   10.0M
LW   20:53   3.2M
Saturday  11
11
HW   03:18   10.3M
LW   09:33   2.9M
HW   15:52   10.4M
LW   22:13   2.8M
Sunday  12
12
HW   04:30   10.7M
LW   10:48   2.5M
HW   17:02   10.9M
LW   23:24   2.3M
Monday  13
13
HW   05:37   11.1M
LW   11:55   2.0M
HW   18:04   11.6M
Tuesday  14
14
LW   00:28   1.8M
HW   06:38   11.6M
LW   12:55   1.5M
HW   19:00   12.1M
Wednesday  15
15
LW   01:28   1.3M
HW   07:33   12.0M
LW   13:49   1.2M
HW   19:52   12.4M
Thursday  16
16
LW   02:21   1.0M
HW   08:22   12.2M
LW   14:38   1.0M
HW   20:39   12.6M
Friday  17
17
Saturday  18
18
© British Crown Copyright, 2026. All rights reserved
Please note: It is the user's responsibility to ensure that the data is suitable for their intended purpose. VisitMyHarbour must not be used by vessels for navigation.
   0   0
UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2022
23 Sep 2022 by Don Thomson 3
I reviewed these notes in September 2022. The yacht Club and Marina set ups continue to thrive but as far as Mermaid Quay is concerned you get the less services than you would in a motorway services car park - except that you have to pay to park.
   0   0
UPDATE SUMMER 2021
24 Sep 2021 by Don Thomson 3
I reviewed these notes in September 2021. There appears to be a new RYA Sailing School on the East wall of the Bay but no facilities there for visitors.
   0   0
UPDATE SPRING 2018
26 Apr 2018 by Don Thomson
No changes apart from the prices
   0   0
Update Spring 2016
19 Apr 2016 by Don Thomson
These notes were reviewed by Don in April 2016. Only changes were to the prices.
   4   0
Penarth Portway
20 Apr 2015 by Skipperjeff34
Penarth Quays Marina has without doubt the best all round facilities in the Cardiff Bay area, with no problems living aboard for extended periods either. We also have the very well regarded Pier64 restaurant & Tesco is very close nearby as well.
   1   0
Update 2015
07 Apr 2015 by Don Thomson
These notes were reviewed by Don in April 2015. After a sailing visit, some additional notes have been added about the Mermaid Quay area.
   3   0
Updated 2013
15 Feb 2013 by Don Thomson
The notes for Cardiff Bay were updated by Don T on the 15th February 2013. They have come a long way since nineties when the only option here was Penarth Marina. The choices of where to park your boat are good, the facilities at the marinas excellent and, compared to the South Coast, reasonably priced (those shown are those for the 2013 season). The problem is the remoteness of the marinas (the fact that Penarth Marina does bike hire should give you a clue) and you should be prepared to spend on taxis.