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.
Group cruises on Steam Yacht Gondola
An 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.
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.
Heart of the lake cruise
This cruise departs at Midday. The one hour Heart of the Lake cruise is packed with cultural highlights and historical gems as you head into Swallows and Amazons and Donald Campbell territory. You’ll sail to 'Wild Cat Island' and even be able to spot the hidden harbour. Donald Campbell used Coniston Water for his water speed record attempts which sadly ended in tragedy.
North lake cruise
Setting sail at 10.45am, the North of the lake cruise lasts one hour. You’ll sail down the lake before gently turning and heading back up the Eastern side affording great views of the Old Man of Coniston and Brantwood, John Ruskin’s former home.
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