Mersey Ferry
Experience Liverpool's iconic waterfront from the water on a historic Mersey Ferry cruise, blending scenic views with fascinating local history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best views and photo ops
Mersey Ferry
Best Time
Best views and photo ops
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Liverpool's iconic waterfront from the water on a historic Mersey Ferry cruise, blending scenic views with fascinating local history.
"The 50-minute trip was absolutely worth it. The views of the city are fantastic!"
🎯 Book Ahead for Seats
Arrive 15 mins early to snag good seats, especially if you want to sit upstairs!
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and sunny on deck. Layers are key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Waterfront Views
Mersey River
See Liverpool's iconic skyline, historic docks, and architectural marvels from a unique vantage point.
Historical Commentary
Onboard the ferry
Learn fascinating facts about the Mersey's maritime history, shipbuilding, and the city's rich past.
Relaxing River Cruise
Mersey River
Enjoy a peaceful 50-minute escape, soaking in the atmosphere and gentle rhythm of the river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating to the Ferry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Merseyrail Saveaway (first time coming to Liverpool)
🎯 Book Ahead for Seats
Arrive 15 mins early to snag good seats, especially if you want to sit upstairs!
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and sunny on deck. Layers are key!
From Liverpool One to Mersey Ferry?
The ferry is only doing commuter trips at the moment and is only £3.50 for a return to and from Birkenhead. If you feel like killing forty minutes and want something to do then just sit off on the ferry for bit.
👂 Listen Closely to Commentary
The audio commentary is informative but can be hard to hear sometimes. Try to sit near speakers.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The best photo ops are from the river, so have your camera ready!
Question about getting to the Liverpool ferry port from the train stations? Lime Street, Moorfields and James Street respectively.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Seats
Arrive 15 mins early to snag good seats, especially if you want to sit upstairs!
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get windy and sunny on deck. Layers are key!
👂 Listen Closely to Commentary
The audio commentary is informative but can be hard to hear sometimes. Try to sit near speakers.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The best photo ops are from the river, so have your camera ready!
☕ Grab a Drink Onboard
There's a small shop selling refreshments, including alcoholic drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mersey Ferry for its stunning waterfront views and informative historical commentary, calling it a 'must-do' for experiencing Liverpool. While most enjoy the relaxing 50-minute cruise, some find the audio commentary hard to hear and suggest arriving early to secure good seats, as it can get crowded.
"I’ve lived in Liverpool for quite a few years but had never actually taken the Mersey Ferry until recently – and I’m so glad I finally did! The 50-minute trip was absolutely worth it. The views of the city are fantastic, and I even learned things about Liverpool’s history that I didn’t know before, thanks to the commentary on board. It’s such a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. I really loved the experience and would definitely do it again. Whether you’re visiting Liverpool or have lived here for years, this is a must-do!"
Ana-Maria Ungureanu
"Highly recommend The Mersey Ferry . We enjoyed our time on the ferry taking in the views and listening to the commentary of the history of the river and building and ship making on the banks of the Mersey. The gents and ladies toilets were very clean which shows how well run the ferry is. The only down side was we sat on the side of the ferry that was next to the embankment and the commentary was describing the view from the other side of the ferry. There is small shop on board were you can food and drinks including alcoholic drinks."
Derek Booth
"a nice area and pretty straight forward to navigate yourself through, luckily we picked out a sunny day but i cannot see this being a great thing if its a cold windy day or raining, the outside decks were kept clean and safe, although does get windy, the tour was nice and pleasant but when the woman over the microphone was explaining the story behind all the monuments, it was difficult to understand what she was referring to. Overall a nice experience and would recommend. Lasts about 45 minutes."
umead khaled
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Lime Street Station, you can take a taxi (approx. 5-10 minutes) or walk (approx. 15-20 minutes). Moorfields and James Street stations are also nearby and walkable.
Yes, there are several car parks near the terminal, but they can be expensive. Public transport is generally recommended.
Absolutely! The terminal is well-served by local buses and is a short walk from several train stations, making it very accessible.
The ferry is generally accessible, but it's always best to check with the ferry operator directly for specific accessibility details and assistance.
The closest stations are James Street, Moorfields, and Liverpool Central, all within a short walking distance of the terminal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the cruise type. The standard 50-minute river cruise is a popular choice. Check the official Mersey Ferry website for current pricing.
You can purchase tickets online in advance through the official Mersey Ferry website or at the terminal on the day of your visit. Booking ahead is recommended during busy periods.
The most popular cruise is the 50-minute river cruise. There are also shorter commuter ferry services available.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and families. It's worth checking the official website or inquiring at the ticket office for any current offers.
Typically, a ticket is for a single cruise experience. For commuter services, different ticketing options might apply.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The commentary often describes sights on both sides, but the city skyline is generally visible from all angles. Sitting on the side facing the embankment might mean you miss some commentary details.
While informative, some visitors find the commentary difficult to hear clearly, especially on windy days or if seated far from the speakers.
There are onboard toilets, which are generally kept clean, and a small shop selling food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages.
Dress in layers as it can be windy and sunny on the open decks. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
While you can stay inside the main cabin, the best views are from the open decks. A sunny day is definitely preferable for the full experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small onboard shop that sells a selection of food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages.
The terminal is located on Liverpool's waterfront, which has numerous restaurants and cafes nearby offering a variety of dining options.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume purchased items onboard. Check with the ferry operator if you have specific concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cruise offers great photo opportunities of the Liverpool skyline, the docks, and the river itself. The open decks provide unobstructed views.
Yes, with open decks and panoramic views, it's straightforward to capture stunning images. Be mindful of wind and spray.
Sunny afternoons offer good light for capturing the city's architecture. Golden hour (late afternoon/early evening) can also provide beautiful light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children, the novelty of being on a boat and seeing the sights can be captivating. The duration of the cruise is manageable for most attention spans. If weather is a concern, the indoor seating area provides shelter, though the best views are from outside.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for family tickets or any available discounts on the official Mersey Ferry website. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money, though there is a small onboard shop for convenience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for a sunny day for the best light and clarity. The open decks provide unobstructed panoramic shots. Be prepared for wind and potential sea spray, which can add a dynamic element to your photos but also require protecting your equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mersey Ferry Experience
While the experience is generally positive, some travelers note that the commentary can be difficult to hear clearly, especially on windy days or if seated far from the speakers. It's also advised to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to secure good seating, as queues can form quickly. The open decks offer the best views, but can be exposed to the elements, so dressing in layers is recommended.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, a shorter commuter ferry service is available, offering a quicker round trip across the Mersey. However, the 50-minute cruise is designed to showcase the waterfront and provide a more comprehensive historical overview, making it the preferred choice for a leisurely sightseeing experience.
Navigating to and from the Ferry Terminal
Several other train stations, including Moorfields and James Street, are also within walking distance, further enhancing the terminal's accessibility. For those driving, car parks are available nearby, though they can be costly. Many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles and costs, aligning with a more sustainable travel approach.
Upon arrival, the terminal area is generally easy to navigate. It's advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, as timings can vary. Arriving at least 15 minutes before your departure is recommended to ensure you have ample time to board and find a suitable seat, especially during peak travel times.
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