Cardiff Docks as it was then called was the world's largest coal exporting port
it is also Europe's largest waterfront development and it has a wealth of leisure activities available both on and off the water.

Cardiff bay has been turned into a vast freshwater lake with the introduction of a barrage.
A number of boat tours operate from Mermaid Quay, which allow you to gain an understanding of the history and fauna of this exciting area.
A new water taxi service which operates throughout the year from the Bay to the city centre and Penarth.

Cardiff Bay is home to a number of attractions such as Techniquest Science Discovery Centre - ideal for all the family, Craft in the Bay, The Welsh Assembly at the Pierhead, Butetown History and Arts Centre, Goleulong 2000 Lightship, and the Norwegian Church Arts Centre
The Atlantic Wharf Leisure Village provides further options for family entertainment.
The harbour at Cardiff Bay experiences one of the worlds greatest tidal ranges up to 14m. This has meant that at low tide, it has been inaccessible for up to 14 hours a day. The new barrage will eliminate the effect of the tide, which has acted as an inhibitor to development, releasing the potential of the capital city's greatest asset - its waterfront.

The construction of Cardiff Bay barrage is one of the largest engineering projects in Europe. Completed in 1999, it has created a 500 acre freshwater lake with 8 miles of waterfront and it is hoped it will stimulate the future development of the Bay as a tourist and leisure destination.