The brand-new £26 million Mersey Ferry took to the water for the first time today, marking a historic moment for the Liverpool City Region.

Painted in the fleet’s iconic red, white and black colours, the Royal Daffodil, the first new Mersey Ferry in more than 60 years, emerged from Cammell Laird’s vast construction hall on the banks of the River Mersey early on Thursday morning.

In a meticulously planned 24-hour operation, the vessel was carefully moved to the river’s edge before the rising tide gently lifted her clear, allowing the ferry to float for the very first time. She will now be towed to the shipyard’s test basin, where engineers will continue fitting out the vessel and carry out preliminary checks ahead of full sea trials scheduled for early next year.

Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, said:

“Despite huge procurement challenges, I promised in my manifesto that we’d build a new ferry on the banks of the Mersey at Cammell Laird, and that’s exactly what we’ve delivered. The ‘ferry cross the Mersey’ is a famous part of our cultural identity and I’m determined to keep it that way. 

“The Royal Daffodil is now a symbol of our pride, progress and the world-class skills of our local workforce. Built right here in the Liverpool City Region, she’s cleaner, greener, and ready to carry this proud tradition into the future for many years to come.” 

David McGinley, Chief Executive of the APCL Group, added:

“The basin test is a vital stage in the shipbuilding process. It’s the first time a new vessel meets the water, and it allows us to confirm that everything performs as expected before she goes to sea. Seeing the Royal Daffodil afloat for the first time is a huge achievement for everyone involved in her construction. 

“This is the 16th Mersey Ferry vessel we have constructed here in CL on the banks of the Mersey and we our proud to continue our involvement in this world famous service.” 

The Royal Daffodil will remain in the basin until early 2026, when she will begin river trials. Once in service, the new ferry will deliver improved accessibility, cleaner and greener operations, and a more comfortable experience for both commuters and visitors alike.

For more information on what visitors can expect from the Royal Daffodil, please visit the Mersey Ferries website.

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