Step aboard Bay Island Voyages for a 2–3 hour trip to Flat Holm Island, a living archive of military history and thriving wildlife just off Cardiff’s coast. Discover ancient fortifications, native soay sheep, and the iconic Trinity House Lighthouse in this unique coastal getaway.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in average fitness who can manage short walks on uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Flat Holm has military significance dating back to the 19th century and played a role in coastal defense with its remaining gun emplacements.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to take all rubbish off the island to help protect its delicate ecosystem, as no waste disposal exists on-site.
Bay Island Voyages
Step aboard Bay Island Voyages for a 2–3 hour trip to Flat Holm Island, a living archive of military history and thriving wildlife just off Cardiff’s coast. Discover ancient fortifications, native soay sheep, and the iconic Trinity House Lighthouse in this unique coastal getaway.
Bay Island Voyages is a Cardiff-based boat operator offering coastal trips and island visits from Cardiff Bay and Weston Super-Mare. The company runs short bay voyages, one-hour coastal trips, children's birthday party charters, and island visits to Flat Holm and Steep Holm. Trips vary in duration from short fifteen-minute bay rides up to two to three hour island visits, with specific thirty- and sixty-minute party options available.
From Cardiff Bay departures, experiences include the fifteen-minute Bay Voyage around Cardiff Bay, the one-hour Coastal Voyage that explores the Welsh coastline and Flat Holm Island, and organised Steep Holm visits that showcase the island's wildlife and historic military structures. The sixty- and thirty-minute children's birthday party trips travel through the Cardiff Barrage lock system and provide tailored group experiences suitable for children meeting the stated height requirement for the thirty-minute run (over one point one metres).
Flat Holm visits are two to three hour excursions focusing on island history, the Trinity House Lighthouse, birdlife, and military relics. Steep Holm trips, offered from both Cardiff Bay and Weston Super-Mare, highlight panoramic views, nature reserve features, archaeological interest, and rare plants and bird species.
Bay Island Voyages operates with a small-group focus; the Bay Voyage is limited to a maximum of twelve passengers, creating an intimate experience. Trips provide opportunities for wildlife spotting such as seals and for photography at Wales' southernmost point. Timings, meeting points, and booking details are provided by the operator at time of reservation. Schedules change with local tide patterns.
Location
Cardiff, UK
Departures from Cardiff Bay
Trip Durations
15–180 mins
Short to multi-hour island visits
Small Groups
12 max (Bay Voyage)
Intimate on-water experience
Destinations
Flat Holm & Steep Holm
Island history and wildlife tours
Secure seats for Cardiff Bay voyages, Flat Holm and Steep Holm visits, and children's party charters — book departures from Cardiff Bay or Weston Super-Mare.
Arrive Early for Departure
Boats depart on strict tide and lock schedules—arrive at Mermaid Quay promptly to avoid missing your trip.
Prepare for Wet Conditions
Sea spray is common during the crossing, even on calm days, so bring waterproof clothing.
Use Cash for Island Purchases
The island’s pub and shop only accept cash, so bring enough to cover drinks and souvenirs.
Watch Your Step
There are steps at the jetty and uneven paths on the island—wear sturdy footwear and be cautious if unsteady on your feet.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against sea spray and spring/fall showers during crossing and island walks.
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Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven paths and steps safely on the island.
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Binoculars
Enhances wildlife and birdwatching experiences on this diverse coastal island.
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Cash
Required to purchase drinks or souvenirs as card facilities are not available on the island.
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