An advertisement from the Cardiff and Suburban Commercial Directory of 1891-92 which states that the boats run from Penarth Dock to Penarth Beach (Kymin) during the summer months. [180]

An engraving showing the beach at Penarth published in 1898. The new pier, however, was opened in 1895 so this engraving is probably from the early 1890's. At the far end of the beach, the ferry boat may be seen at the beach near to the Kymin and the site of the new seawater baths. The yacht club, with its distinctive verandah and jetty is, as today, a prominent historic feature of the esplanade. Bathing machines are parked at the seawall and children paddle in the muddy waters, just as I did as a child! I recall having to ride home to Dinas Powys accompanied by a rather indignant Auntie Win on a Thomas Motors of Barry bus wearing only my see-through 'Pacamac' plastic raincoat because my trousers, underpants, socks and shirt were sodden after falling in headfirst! Ah - happy days! [000] [002]

A photograph (with colourised version) taken on the promontory of Penarth Head looking south toward the beach. The pier is not yet built so I suspect this dates the photo to the around the same date as the engraving above i.e. early 1890's. At the slipway on the beach the Penarth-Cardiff ferry may just be viewed awaiting its passengers for the return to Penarth Dock beach and then onto Cardiff Pier Head. I unable to definitely identify the the ferry boat but it could possibly be the first 'Kate' or 'Iona'. 'La Belle Marie' was probably out of service at this time, being offered for auction in 1891, and the second 'Kate' wasn't launched until August 1893. [000] [331]