Groups are welcome on Steam Yacht Gondola

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If you’re looking for an experience in the Lake District that will delight your group, look no further than a historic cruise on Coniston Water aboard a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht.

Glide along along Coniston Water taking in some of the history and scenery of this special place in the Lake District – a recently designated UK World Heritage Site.

Our 2020 cruises

South Lake Cruise

This is the perfect option for rambling and walking groups. Departing at 10.45am daily, Gondola can transport your group in style to the start of some great walking routes on the east side of Coniston. Alternatively, you can hop off at Brantwood or stay aboard for an hour long round trip cruise.

Full Lake cruise

Enjoy a 1 hour 45minute sail around the lake from Coniston Pier and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of this steam experience with full commentary on Gondola’s connection to Swallows and Amazons, the history of the yacht and Coniston’s water speed ace Donald Campbell and Bluebird K7. 

North Lake Cruise

Previously known as a 'Head of Lake' cruise, there are 2 North lake Cruises each day departing Coniston at 12noon or 1.30pm. The round trip lasts 45 minutes and calls in at Brantwood and Monk Coniston. 

General information for groups

  • Party leader travels free.
  • Free coach parking and toilets are available at our departure point at Coniston Pier.
  • There are no toilets on board.
  • Refreshments are available at the excellent Bluebird Café at Coniston Pier. There is also a café at Brantwood.

We can suggest itineraries working with neighbouring attractions so that your group can make the most of their time in the Lake District. To discuss your group’s requirements, please call our booking office on 015394 32733 or send us an email.

 

Burchiello Venetian Gondola
Steam Yacht Gondola   Cumbria

Why Gondola looks like a Venetian 'gondola'

How Gondola became a moving part of Coniston's cultural landscape...

Find out more
Early tourists on Gondola

A Victorian Lakes Journey 

Click through to see the full day's itinerary and how to book.

A Victorian Lakes Journey

New sailing timetable for 2020

Steam Yacht Gondola with steam

Coniston circular cruise - South 

You can now get out on the lake a little earlier to make the most of your day. Combine a cruise, walk and picnic by steaming down to Parkamoor on the peaceful east shore of Coniston.

Steam Yacht Gondola arriving at Brantwood jetty, Coniston Water

Coniston circular cruise - North 

Steam your way around the north part of Coniston Water on this round trip cruise with options to hop off at Brantwood for a culture fix or Monk Coniston for a lovely walk to Tarn Hows.

Old Man of Coniston reflected on a resplendent autumn morning on Coniston Water

Full Lake Cruise 

Back by popular demand, from Sunday 4 October. This cruise is the perfect way to see the glorious autumn colours of the Coniston woods and fells, taking you the entire length of Coniston Water and back. Departing daily at 1.45pm, this cruise lasts 1 hour 45 minutes.