North West Modernizes Ferry Fleet After 60 Years
Royal Iris ferry to retire March 31 after 60 years of Mersey crossings
Royal Iris Ferry Retires After 60 Years
The Royal Iris of the Mersey will make its final sailing on 31 March after more than 60 years carrying passengers across the River Mersey, transit officials confirmed. The iconic ferry has served generations of commuters and visitors traveling between Liverpool and Wirral, marking the end of an era for one of the region's most recognizable vessels. Cllr Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Combined Authority Transport Committee, described the Royal Iris as "more than just a ferry" and part of the region's identity.
Six Decades of Service on the Mersey
The vessel has been a familiar sight on the Liverpool and Wirral waterfront since entering service in the 1960s, providing essential transport links and leisure cruises for the region. The ferry's retirement comes as the service prepares for modernization with new vessels while maintaining the tradition of river crossings that's defined Merseyside transport for generations. Officials said the Royal Iris has carried countless families, commuters, and tourists throughout its operational life. The ferry's longevity reflects both its robust construction and the dedication of crews who've maintained it over six decades.
Farewell Celebrations Planned for Final Weekend
Special farewell events are scheduled for Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March, with passengers invited to visit the ferry throughout the month to share memories and take photographs. Transit officials said high visitor numbers are expected during the final weekend and encouraged guests to stagger their arrival times. The celebrations will give riders a chance to pay tribute to the vessel before its retirement. Officials haven't specified exact programming for the farewell events, though they confirmed the ferry will be accessible to the public during the final days of service.
Service Continues with Snowdrop, New Ferry Coming
Regular Mersey Ferries services will continue after 31 March aboard the Snowdrop, officials confirmed. The first new Mersey Ferry in 60 years, the Royal Daffodil, is due to set sail later this year, though officials haven't announced a specific launch date. The new vessel represents a significant investment in the river crossing service while maintaining the tradition established by ferries like the Royal Iris.
What Riders Need to Know
Passengers who regularly use the Mersey Ferries service won't experience disruptions after the Royal Iris retirement, as the Snowdrop will maintain scheduled crossings between Liverpool and Wirral. Riders planning to visit the ferry during its final month of service should expect larger crowds, particularly during the farewell weekend. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for Mersey Ferries and transit services throughout the Liverpool region.
