Mersey Ferry

Iconic crossing to the Wirral — 50-minute round trip with commentary

Address Pier Head Ferry Terminal, Liverpool, L3 1DP

The Mersey ferries have crossed the river between Liverpool and the Wirral since the 13th century, though today's service is more tourist trip than commuter run. The 50-minute "Mersey River Explorer" cruise loops between Pier Head, Seacombe and Birkenhead with recorded commentary on the buildings, history and music of the city.

There are two boats in service — the Snowdrop and Royal Iris of the Mersey — both repainted in distinctive Dazzle camouflage to designs by artists Sir Peter Blake and Sir Peter Howson. The view of the Three Graces from the middle of the river is the iconic Liverpool postcard. Buy tickets at the Pier Head terminal.

things to do landmark waterfront
A story
Gerry Marsden's 1965 song "Ferry Cross the Mersey" was used at the 1989 Hillsborough disaster memorial and became a fundraising single. The current ferries Snowdrop and Royal Iris of the Mersey still carry his recording as part of the on-board commentary on the tourist circuit.