Mersey Ferries has launched its full programme for the year ahead including a varied range of cruises for groups of all sizes.
Manchester Ship Canal cruises offer a six-hour round-trip along the historic waterway. Cruises depart from either Seacombe Ferry Terminal, Wirral or Liverpool Gerry Marsden Ferry Terminal (Pier Head). There is stunning industrial architecture along the route, including numerous bridges, and a Blue Badge Guide provides an interesting and informative commentary along the way, pointing out landmarks, wildlife and telling the tale of the canal’s fascinating construction, before returning to the departure point while enjoying live music. These cruises operate on selected dates from June to September and the group rate for 20+ passengers is £42pp
Liverpool Bay Cruises offers a unique three-hour sightseeing cruise into Liverpool Bay offering magnificent views of the River Mersey, coastline and Liverpool Bay. Visitors can see the impressive windfarms at Burbo Bank and if you’re lucky, several species of seabirds and the occasional porpoise. With entertaining live music from local artists and as much sea air as you can handle, it’s a perfect trip for a morning or afternoon activity. These cruises operate on selected dates June to August and the group rate for 20+ passengers is £22pp
And Mersey Ferries’ 50-minute River Explorer Cruises are the perfect way for visitors to the city region to view the famous skyline and landmarks from the deck of the world-famous Mersey Ferry. Visitors just sit back, relax and listen to the fascinating recorded commentary telling of Liverpool and Wirral’s rich maritime history, taking in the stunning views of the spectacular waterfront and discovering amazing facts about the city. Cruises depart from either Seacombe Ferry Terminal, Wirral or Liverpool Gerry Marsden Ferry Terminal (Pier Head).
There is free admission for a group organiser or leader on River Explorer Cruises along with free Wirral coach parking. Coaches can drop-off and collect from Seacombe Ferry Terminal, with free coach parking available at Woodside, Birkenhead. River Explorer Cruises operate hourly between 10.00hrs -16.00hrs with additional afternoon sailings at weekends from April to September. The group rate for 20+ passengers is £9.50pp with a free driver or guide
In addition, the River Explorer sightseeing cruise can be combined with a visit to The Beatles Story in the Royal Albert Dock to learn more about the life and music of the Fab Four. The award-winning attraction is the world’s largest permanent exhibition purely devoted to the lives and times of The Beatles. The Beatles Story takes visitors on an atmospheric journey through the lives, culture and music of the world’s greatest band. To arrange a group visit to The Beatles Story please visit www.beatlesstory.com/travel-trade
Services have recently returned to Seacombe Ferry Terminal, Wirral following a major upgrade of the terminal. As part of this multi-million pound investment, both the 130-year-old linkspan bridges were replaced, signifying a major piece of engineering work. To make the ferries easily accessible there has also been a complete refurbishment of the Landing Stage with powered gangways, helping people get on and off the ferry easily and a new contemporary ticket office area – integrating fully with the new Eureka! Science + Discovery attraction.