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Group cruises on Steam Yacht Gondola

The Steam Yacht Gondola full of passengers exploring Coniston Water in the Lake District, Cumbria
The Steam Yacht Gondola exploring the lake | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

PLEASE NOTE: STEAM YACHT GONDOLA IS CLOSED FOR THE WINTER. SHE WILL BE SAILING AGAIN IN MARCH 2024. A historic cruise on Coniston Water aboard a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht is the perfect group experience in the Lake District. Find out how to make a group booking on the Steam Yacht Gondola, the benefits you can receive and the cruises to choose from.

General information for groups

When you make a group booking in advance, your party can take advantage of the following benefits:

  • Party leader travels free.
  • Free coach parking and toilets are available at the departure point at Coniston Pier (no toilets on board).

Refreshments are available at the Bluebird Café at Coniston Pier. There is also a café at Brantwood.

The Steam Yacht Gondola team 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, email gondola.bookings@nationaltrust.org.uk.

Passengers in the cabin of Gondola, a rebuilt Victorian steam-powered yacht on Coniston Water, Lake District, Cumbria
Passengers in the cabin of the Gondola steam-powered yacht, first launched in 1859 | © National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Steam Yacht Gondola cruise itineraries

You can choose from three itineraries for your group booking. Take in the whole of the lake or focus on just a part of it.

Full lake cruise

Enjoy a 1 hour 45 minute 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.

South lake cruise

This is the perfect option for rambling and walking groups. In peak season there are two south lake cruises a day, departing Coniston at 10.45am and 1.40pm.

Gondola can transport your group in style to Parkamoor or Brantwood, so you can hop off to start a walking route on the east side of Coniston.

North lake cruise

The north lake cruise departs Coniston each day at 10.45am in low season or 12 noon in peak season. The hour-long round trip calls in at Brantwood and Monk Coniston jetties.

Passengers aboard the Steam Yacht Gondola on Coniston Water, Lake District, Cumbria

Discover more at the Steam Yacht Gondola

Find out when the Steam Yacht Gondola cruises, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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