Plans have been unveiled for a new floating hotel that will be situated in Cardiff Bay. The new hospitality hotspot in the Welsh capital will count 120 rooms.
Cardiff Bay’s newest hotel is a project developed by MEYER Floating Solutions Ltd – active in overwater real estate, specialising in the design and delivery of innovative floating structures – and developer of floating hospitality projects in protected waters and port cities Morfield Floating Hotels Ltd, in collaboration with Spicer Architects Ltd.
The “non-self-propelled” floating hotel will be built off-site before being transported to its final location in Cardiff Bay, where it should be of added value to the landscape according to a press release. Its installation should cause minimal disruption to the surrounding community.
“Our vision is to create a landmark attraction that enhances Cardiff’s waterfront while showcasing what’s possible with modern floating architecture. This hotel is more than accommodation — it’s an experience that reflects the spirit of the city and its growing waterfront,” said Kaj Casén, CEO of MEYER Floating Solutions Ltd.
At the moment, the project is in its planning and consultation phase, which happens in close collaboration with Cardiff City Council, Associated British Ports, and local stakeholders. Through a public consultation, the final design will be refined in order to ensure it aligns with Cardiff’s long-term waterfront development goals.
According to the timeline of the project, the planning approvals and community consultations should be finished in 2025. If all goes to plan, offsite manufacturing and pre-commissioning will begin in 2026, while the delivery, installation, and opening of the floating hotel in Cardiff Bay is scheduled for 2027.
“By working closely with the council, the port, and the community, we aim to deliver a truly distinctive visitor experience. This project also opens the door for valuable collaborations with hotel brands and partners who want to be part of Cardiff’s next chapter,” John Moore, Chief Strategist at Morfield Floating Hotels Ltd, commented.
What’s in a floating hotel?
To put it concretely, the 120-room hotel will cater to both business and leisure travellers. The store structure will feature a hi-tech design, complete with electronic check-in while creating approximately 35 permanent jobs according to John Moore. An emergency parking in front of the hotel and a bay for deliveries are scheduled to be created as part of the project.
Currently, there are three floating hotels in the United Kingdom. The five-star Fingal Hotel in Edinburgh is located on Alexandra Dock. The Sunborn London Yacht Hotel and the Good Hotel are situated at the Royal Victoria Dock in London.
