Steam Yacht Gondola

Steam Yacht Gondola is a restored Victorian steam-powered boat that takes passengers on sightseeing cruises across Coniston Water in the Lake District. Launched in the nineteenth century for the railway company that served the valley, she was later rescued from a sunken state and returned to service under the National Trust. Families come for the chance to ride a working steam vessel with views of the fells, and the cruises are short enough to suit younger children. The cabin has bench seating and the open deck suits people who want to watch the lake and the shoreline. Cruise options vary in length and include routes that call at Monk Coniston and Brantwood. The boat sails only in the main season, so check before travelling, and walk-up tickets are sold at the jetty when places are available. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the non-carpeted areas.