The £26m Royal Daffodil has officially entered passenger service on the River Mersey, marking a new chapter in the history of Liverpool's iconic Mersey Ferries. The new vessel took its place on the river today (Tuesday, November 3), bringing a modern new look to one of the region's best-loved attractions.
Design and Facilities
Built at the APCL Balaena shipyard in Birkenhead, formerly known as Cammell Laird, the Royal Daffodil has been designed to combine the area's proud maritime heritage with modern facilities and improved accessibility.
Painted in the fleet's traditional red, white and black colours, the ferry features a contemporary lounge, catering facilities, spacious open decks and panoramic windows offering passengers views across the Mersey. There is also an on-board lift, USB charging points, baby-changing facilities and cycle parking.
Services and Significance
The £26m investment will see the Royal Daffodil operate morning and evening commuter services, the Liverpool Sightseeing Cruise and evening cruises.
Its arrival marks a significant moment for Mersey Ferries, which have carried generations of passengers across the river and remain one of the most recognisable symbols of the Liverpool City Region.
To mark the new era, ECHO photographer Iain Watts captured photographs of the new vessel in action on the Mersey. Archive images of the ferry during its naming ceremony, which took place in September, were also released.
