Penarth Marina can be found in the historic basins of Penarth Docks in Cardiff Bay, providing a perfect location for exploring the Bristol Channel.
After the current marina was opened in 1987 and the Cardiff Bay Barrage completed in 1999, Penarth has evolved over the years to become a favourite sheltered and secure location for boating enthusiasts to get out on the water. On the doorstep of Cardiff Bay and Cardiff City Centre, it is conveniently located while having its own strong sense of local community. The marina has been awarded 5 Gold Anchors by The Yacht Harbour Association and has extensive on-site facilities for visitors and berth holders, making it a popular choice for novice and experienced boaters alike.
FACILITIES & BERTHING
Penarth Marina has 320 berths which can accommodate vessels up to 72ft. 12-month berths up to six metres start at £300/m and £400/m for over six metres. All berths are fully serviced and the marina has 24-hour staffing, security and CCTV.
It offers a fully equipped boatyard for lifting boats and storing ashore up to 20 tonnes. The boatyard team are fully trained to provide a professional, safe service when handling boats.
Pura Vida Marine is located next to the hoist dock and offers a variety of boat cleaning packages ranging from monthly boat washing to complete hull polishing and antifouling in the yard. They also provide engine, electrical and general boat repairs. All annual berth holders are entitled to four-weeks yard storage at no extra cost, with availability for customers who want to carry out maintenance on their boats ashore.
The hardstanding is fully serviced with electricity and water, accommodating a range of vessels using cradles or chocked on blocks and stands. Masts up to one tonne can be lifted by the jib crane for stepping and un-stepping services.
There is an on-site chandlery which provides a selection of engine spares, antifouls, cleaning products and basic items. There is also a supermarket five minutes’ walk away for restocking empty galley cupboards.
- Recently extended on-site restaurant, The Deck, offering stunning views;
- Free Wi-Fi for all customers;
- 22 high-definition CCTV cameras cover the marina for security;
- A fuel berth offering Unleaded and Gasoil from 9am-5pm;
- Customer trolleys available outside the facility building;
- Free parking for berth holders in the three car parks along the edge of the outer basin and pay and display for visitors;
- Cardiff Harbour Authority provides pump out facilities outside the marina entrance;
- 24-hour access to the water.
ACCESS
By sea: The marina is located inside Cardiff Bay Barrage. When arriving by sea through the Barrage locks, the marina is immediately to port. Vessels should call Penarth Marina on VHF Channel 80 to inform the team of their intended arrival whilst they are waiting in the Barrage Lock, or immediately after entering Cardiff Bay.
By road: The marina is located just seven miles from Junction 33 of the M4 motorway and 3.8 miles from Cardiff city centre. The car parks are well signposted from the marina entrance and are free for berth holders. Navigate to Penarth Marina, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 1TQ.
By train: Penarth Marina is walking distance (around 15 minutes) from both Penarth and Cogan train stations, both of which have frequent trains to and from Cardiff Central.
CRUISING
Being in Cardiff Bay means Penarth is the perfect spot for exploring the Bristol Channel. If you are looking to stay on the Welsh coast, head west around the headland and you will pass Barry Island, made famous by the sitcom Gavin and Stacey.
Heading further west will take you to the charming town of Porthcawl, which is surrounded by beautiful beaches. To continue your cruise, continue along the coast and head for Swansea, about 46nm from Penarth. Known as Wales’s second city, there is plenty to do and see both in the city and along this part of the Gower Coast.
Cruising up the Bristol Channel will take you towards Gloucester, however cruising in the Severn estuary this far up has its own navigation challenges with the tidal ranges, so access to Gloucester is found via the Gloucester Sharpness Canal.
Penarth is also a great launching point to explore southern English coastal towns, many being a short day’s sail across the Bristol Channel. These include Portishead, Minehead, Watchet and Porlock. For longer trips head west along the English coast into Cornwall, making sure to stop off in the picturesque town of Padstow.
OUT AND ABOUT
Situated on the South Wales coast in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan, Penarth has long been a hotspot for British tourists. The vibrant town is within walking distance of the marina and is filled with shops, restaurants and pubs.
Situated within the marina is The Deck, which is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy freshly prepared food or even just a drink and a chat with friends in a stunning waterside location. Recently refurbished, The Deck offers a wide variety of food each day with a menu for every occasion including breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday lunch and afternoon tea. Dishes include food to share and classic plates, from fillet steak to seafood dishes, including Moules marinière, seared seabass and fish and chips, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.
For those looking for local pubs, The Oystercatcher is a short walk west of the marina and The Pilot is just south, but up on the hill. For those looking to re-stock their food supplies, a Tesco Superstore is located five minutes from the marina on Terra Nova Way.
On the opposite side of the bay is Mermaid Quay and Cardiff Waterfront, which are full of bustling restaurants, shops and venues. A short taxi or train journey from the marina can take you into Cardiff city centre. The modern metropolitan city is rich with history and culture. Must-sees are the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff Castle and the Victorian arcades for a spot of shopping.
PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION
“Jackie and l both retired four years ago and live in St Fagans in Cardiff. We have been proud boat owners for the last nine years after purchasing our first yacht, Songbird, a Hunter Legend 326, which was already berthed in Penarth Marina. We bought a new Jeanneau 41 DS, White Swan, for our retirement and chose to extend our berthing with Penarth Marina as we were impressed with the friendliness, helpfulness and commitment of the marina team.
“We have peace of mind knowing our boat is secure and checked regularly while we are away. The marina facilities are always clean and fresh. We also like the area around the marina which includes great pubs and restaurants, the opportunity of sailing the Cardiff Bay area or walking to Mermaid Quay or the city centre. It is so easy to slip away to the boat anytime we choose. Portishead is a great place to sail over to for a few days and catching the bus to the surrounding towns is easy. We have also met lovely friends and have had so much fun on B Pontoon.”
Tony and Jackie
MORE INFORMATION
Marina Manager: Stuart Jones
Phone: 02920 705021
VHF: Ch80
Email: penarth@boatfolk.co.uk
Address: Marina Office, Penarth Marina, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 1TQ
