Manchester Ship Canal Cruise
Sail to the historic Latchford Locks and back on this fascinating round-trip day cruise.
Mersey Ferries’ fascinating Manchester Ship Canal Cruises will set sail along a new cruise route in 2021.
The round-trip cruise will sail from Liverpool and Wirral, travel along the captivating Manchester Ship Canal to the historic Latchford Locks and back, giving you the opportunity to experience a round-trip in the same day!
Relax as you travel under bridges mostly unchanged since they were built over 125 years ago and experience the rich legacy of Victorian architecture and engineering masterpieces like the Grade II listed Runcorn Rail Bridge and the Latchford High Level Bridge.
At Latchford Locks the ferry will turn and start the return journey back to Liverpool and Wirral. As you sail back along the canal, through Eastham Locks into the River Mersey, you will get a breath-taking view of the Mersey Estuary and Liverpool’s UNESCO World Heritage Waterfront in the distance. Enjoy the incredible panoramic views of the stunning coastline, Liverpool’s famous skyline and historic buildings.
To make your journey even more enjoyable, on board you’ll learn about the history of the canal and landmarks from our Blue Badge Guide’s live commentary. Our licensed bar and servery are also available on board, selling refreshments and snacks throughout the cruise.
Cruises last between 5 - 6 hours. You will depart from Liverpool or Wirral, sail to Latchford Locks and enjoy a return trip along the canal before being dropped at your original departure point.
If you would like to buy a gift voucher for a sailing in 2021, call 0151 330 1003 or book online.
Please note, the canal is a commercial shipping channel and cruises can be delayed for reasons beyond our control.
Customers with Manchester Ship Canal gift vouchers will be able to exchange the vouchers for a sailing in 2021. Vouchers do not need to be re-issued, please keep gift vouchers safe until the opportunity is available to exchange the vouchers for a future cruise. Gift vouchers are valid for 12 months and will be extended should Covid-19 related restrictions prevent use.
Our staff are currently working from home due to Covid-19 restrictions. Please note there could be a 10-12 day delay in receiving gift vouchers by post.
Tickets for 2021 Manchester Ship Canal cruises are due to go on sale during the early part of 2021. Further updates regarding the on sale date for 2021 Manchester Ship Canal Cruise tickets will be released by early March in light of government advice and Covid-19 guidelines.
Please note you will not be able to make a booking or exchange a gift voucher until tickets go on sale; sign up for our newsletter to be the first to find out when the 2021 dates go on sale.
June
11:30
July
12:00
July
12:30
July
10:30
July
11:30
Aug
09:30
Aug
10:00
Aug
10:30
Aug
09:30
Aug
09:30
Aug
10:30
Aug
11:00
Sept
09:30
Sept
10:00
Sept
09:30
Sept
10:00
Oct
09:30
Getting to Liverpool Pier Head
The Pier Head Ferry Terminal is a short walk from James Street train station.
Car parking is available at the Q-Park, Liverpool One. A 10% discount is available for Mersey Ferries customers who pre-book their parking.
Visit merseyferries.co.uk/pierhead to pre-book your parking.
The postcode for this car park is L1 8LT.
For more detailed travel information, please call 0151 330 1000.
Getting to Wirral Terminal
Details of Wirral Terminal to be confirmed before the 2021 dates go on sale.
On the day of your cruise
Join the Mersey Ferry at Liverpool or Wirral, for an enjoyable trip along the Manchester Ship Canal. Cruise duration is normally 5-6 hours.
How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration is normally between 5 – 6 hours.
Can I buy food on board?
Our on board cafe sells a range of snacks and sandwiches on board but you are more than welcome to bring your own packed lunches or picnic. There is also a full range of hot and cold drinks to buy as well as a fully licensed bar aboard. Due to licensing restrictions, you cannot bring your own alcohol on board.
Can I bring a dog?
Due to the duration of the cruise, dogs cannot be carried on the Manchester Ship Canal cruises. We do of course, accept assistance dogs.
Is smoking permitted?
All Mersey Ferries, premises, including vessels are designated as no smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted on the vessel at any time. This also includes electronic cigarettes.
How much are children's tickets?
Children under the age of 2 are free of charge but still need to have an infant ticket so please make sure you let us know at the time of booking.
Is the cruise suitable for children?
Please remember that the cruise is likely to be between 5 and 6 hours in duration and the cruises do not have any children’s activities.
What are the arrangements for seating?
We offer free seating on board, we are unable to reserve seats and seats are on a first come first served basis.
Where can I park?
We offer free parking at Seacombe, parking is available at Q Park in Liverpool which is close to the Pier Head Ferry Terminal.
Manchester Ship Canal Cruise Accessibility
Wheelchair access is possible on to the main deck of the vessel only. Please note that outdoor areas on the main deck are extremely limited. The only access to the top deck is via steps.
Toilet facilities for passengers with disabilities are available on the main deck.
At Seacombe and Pier Head the distance from the nearest drop off point is approx 150m. Both collapsible and non-collapsible wheelchair space must be pre-booked when you order your tickets (Tel: 0151 330 1003 open 7 days a week between 8am and
8pm).
The Manchester Ship Canal passes through a number of industrial complexes. Vapours may be in the air, which may irritate those with asthma or other respiratory problems.
At Mersey Ferries, we have been progressively improving accessibility throughout our terminals and vessels. Our aim is to ensure that all our customers are catered for, and there are no barriers to traveling with us.
Facilities available at Mersey Ferries
On Our Vessels
Main decks are fully accessible, including wheelchair access.
Accessible toilet facilities are available on the main deck.
Colour contrasting steps and handrails.
At Our Terminals
All Mersey Ferries terminals are accessible for wheelchair users.
Wheelchairs are available on request.
Please note that the link span bridge, which connects the ferry terminal to the landing stage, can be quite steep, especially at low tide (times for low tide).
Our staff can provide assistance or carry you on an electric buggy, on request.
Accessible toilets are available at all ferry terminals.
Further Information
All Mersey Ferries information is available in alternative formats.
For further information about accessibility issues please telephone: 0151 330 1003