liverpool river cruises

Liverpool: 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise

Embarking on Liverpool ‘s 50-minute Mersey River Cruise, visitors unlock a gateway to the city’s soul, as the adage goes, ‘The best way to see a city is from the water.’

The gentle lapping of the waves against the ferry’s hull carries anticipation, offering a glimpse of what lies ahead. As travelers glide along the historic river, a world of tales and urban legends unfolds, painting a vivid picture of Liverpool ‘s past and present.

But what truly awaits beyond the bend in the river, where hidden gems and storied landmarks beckon, is a narrative waiting to be discovered.

• Experience Liverpool’s vibrant history and landmarks with expert commentary
• Enjoy under an hour cruise with roundtrip service and historical English commentary
• Learn about key riverside landmarks with colorful audio commentary
• Flexible hop-on, hop-off option available for exploration with maximum 20 travelers

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Liverpool: River Cruise & Sightseeing Bus Tour
• BEST OF LIVERPOOL-Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour
• History Guided Tour of Liverpool and the Beatles
• Beatles Classic Tour of Liverpool by Private Taxi

Tour Highlights

Embark on the 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise in Liverpool to witness the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant history unfold before your eyes. The cruise offers breathtaking views of historical landmarks along the Mersey River, showcasing Liverpool’s rich heritage and architectural marvels.

Passengers can marvel at the stunning waterfront, spot famous sights such as the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building , and the Port of Liverpool Building. The cruise provides a unique perspective on the city’s history, with expert commentary available in English, enhancing the experience.

As the ferry glides through the waters, guests can soak in the beauty of Liverpool’s waterfront while learning about the significance of each landmark that dots the riverbanks.

Cruise Experience

Gliding along the Mersey River aboard the River Explorer Cruise in Liverpool unveils a captivating journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant history. Passengers are treated to scenic views and ample photo opportunities of key riverside landmarks. The cruise provides a perfect setting for capturing memories against the backdrop of Liverpool’s rich heritage. As the boat gently navigates the river, guests can snap photos of famous sites such as the Royal Liver Building and the Albert Dock, creating lasting mementos of their visit. With the blend of historical commentary in English and the picturesque surroundings, the River Explorer Cruise offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both knowledge and beautiful sights.

Expert Commentary

Navigating along the Mersey River aboard the River Explorer Cruise in Liverpool exposes passengers to engaging and insightful commentary from knowledgeable experts. These experts provide historical insights into the rich tapestry of Liverpool’s past, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage as seen from the vantage point of the river.

Their local knowledge enhances the experience, shedding light on hidden gems and iconic landmarks that line the Mersey River. As the cruise glides along, passengers are treated to a narrative woven with fascinating anecdotes and facts, painting a vivid picture of Liverpool’s evolution over the years.

This expert commentary adds a layer of depth to the journey, making it not just a scenic tour but also an educational immersion into the heart of the city.

Essential Information

As passengers soak in the historical insights and vibrant commentary during the Mersey River Cruise in Liverpool, they can also familiarize themselves with essential details that enhance their overall experience.

Booking Tips :

• Customers can book the Mersey River Cruise through Viator, starting from $15.41.
• Viator, a reputable travel company operating since 1997, provides a range of travel experiences.
• Booking terms and conditions apply, and customers can easily access the Viator website for reservations.

Local Attractions :

• The cruise offers views of key riverside landmarks in Liverpool.
• Passengers can enjoy hop-on, hop-off options for further exploration of the city.
• The meeting point for the cruise is at Pier Head, Liverpool, a hub for local attractions and activities.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can secure a full refund for the Mersey River Cruise if cancellation is made at least 24 hours in advance. It’s important to note that cancellations within 24 hours of the cruise won’t be eligible for a refund.

Changes to bookings are also not accepted within 24 hours of the scheduled departure time. Since the experience is weather-dependent, in cases of unfavorable weather conditions , customers have the option to reschedule for a different date or receive a full refund.

Plus, language sheets are available upon request for those who may require them during the cruise. This policy ensures flexibility for customers while considering external factors like weather conditions and language options .

Customer Reviews

In the realm of passenger feedback, the Mersey River Cruise garnered praise from a variety of travelers who shared their delightful experiences. Here’s why they enjoyed it:

• The cruise provided excellent photo opportunities capturing the beauty of Liverpool’s riverside scenery.
• Travelers appreciated the music on board which added to the ambiance and enjoyment of the journey.
• The informative commentary coupled with the enjoyable experience left passengers feeling satisfied and eager to recommend the Mersey River Cruise to others.

These aspects contributed to the overall positive reviews and highlights the cruise as a must-try activity when visiting Liverpool.

Customer Feedback

The passengers’ diverse feedback on the Mersey River Cruise offers valuable insights into their individual experiences and overall satisfaction. Anouska_J expressed a desire for more photo opportunities during the cruise, highlighting the importance of capturing memorable moments.

Vikki_B praised the informative radio commentary provided onboard, enhancing the educational aspect of the journey.

Kerry_P enjoyed the onboard entertainment , particularly the music that added a delightful touch to the trip.

These testimonials showcase the varying preferences of customers, emphasizing the significance of incorporating elements like photo opportunities and engaging entertainment to cater to a broader audience.

Pricing and Booking

Upon visiting the Viator website, travelers can easily access booking information for the Mersey River Cruise, starting from $15.41.

When considering Viator options for booking the cruise, customers will find a user-friendly platform with transparent pricing. The booking process is straightforward and secure, allowing for a seamless reservation experience.

Here are three key points to note:

• Viator offers competitive pricing starting from $15.41 for the Mersey River Cruise.
• The booking process on Viator’s website is efficient and hassle-free.
• Customers can explore various options and select the desired date and time for their river cruise experience.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Best of Liverpool Sightseeing Tour by Private Taxi
• The Beatles Story Experience Ticket
• Liverpool With a Local: Walking Tour
• The Beatles Famous Walking Tour Of Liverpool- Fully Guided
• North Wales Adventure Sightseeing Day Trip From Liverpool
• Royal Liver Building 360 – Tower Tour and Experience

Common questions

Can children participate in the mersey river cruise.

Children can participate in the Mersey River Cruise, offering family-friendly activities. The cruise provides a kid-friendly experience with no age restrictions . It’s a great way for families to enjoy the scenic views and learn about Liverpool’s history.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available on the Ferry?

Restroom facilities are available on the ferry, ensuring passenger comfort. The ferry is accessible, catering to various needs. Travelers can enjoy the cruise worry-free, with amenities like restrooms and accessibility features to enhance their experience.

Is There Onboard Dining Available During the Cruise?

Onboard dining is not available during the cruise. However, passengers can enjoy stunning river views and expert commentary on Liverpool’s landmarks. Explorers seeking a culinary experience can indulge in local eateries post-cruise.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Group rates are available for savings on the Mersey River Cruise, making it a family friendly option. Enjoy deals for larger bookings. The cruise offers a cost-effective way to explore Liverpool’s highlights together, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Ferry During the Cruise?

Wi-Fi coverage is not available on the ferry during the cruise. Connectivity options are limited on board. Guests can enjoy the riverside scenery and expert commentary without digital distractions. Disconnect and immerse in the experience.

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Enjoy the vibrant city of Liverpool with a 50-minute Mersey River Cruise.

With expert commentary, stunning views , and the option to explore at your own pace, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the charm and history of Liverpool from the water.

Book your cruise today and embark on a journey through the heart of this iconic city.

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Mersey Ferry River Explorer Cruise

Tickets 🎫 Adult entry for 1 (16+) 🎫 Child entry for 1 (5–15)

Kids under 5 go free

Highlights 🛥️ Enjoy a 50-minute Mersey River cruise aboard the Mersey Ferry 👂 Listen to a dedicated audio guide about the history of the waterfront 🌊 See waterside sights like the Tate Liverpool, the Royal Albert Dock, and more

General Info 📅 Date and time: various dates and times available (select during purchase) 📍 Location: Pier Head Ferry Terminal 👤 Age requirement: 5+ ⏳ Duration: 50 minutes ❓ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs 📱 You will find more information about your booking in your Fever ticket and confirmation email

Description Embark on a Mersey River cruise and enjoy Liverpool's world-famous waterfront from a whole new perspective. This jaunt aboard the well-known Mersey Ferry allows you to take in the rich history of the Liverpool Waterfront, while a full commentary provides the lowdown on what you're seeing for a whole 50 minutes. During your ride, discover the well-loved legacy of Liverpool and the river Mersey, with its musical and maritime history.

User reviews

• Faye E. Mar 2023 Really great trip, staff were really friendly and helpful too as I had our little boy with us 😊
• Pat N. Mar 2023 Really enjoyable cruise. Very good commentary throughout. Would recommend this trip to anyone whether a visitor or local. Took us back a few years to when we used the ferries to go to New Brighton. Thank you very much.
• Andrea W. Aug 2022 Although I am from Liverpool I never get tired of the Ferry across the Mersey. Loved it yet again.
• Emilio K. Feb 2022 Was a lovely trip. Very informative and great fun for the kids
• Charlotte P. May 2022 Amazing
• Steven C. Jun 2022 Excellent
• Steve C. Sept 2022 Great nice and easy to organise and enjoy!

How to get there?

Pier Head Ferry Terminal (Mersey Ferries)

Pier Head, George Parade, Liverpool, L3 1DP

Select date and session

No booking fees

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• Enhance Your Visit
• Attractions

Plan Your Visit

River Explorer Cruise

Mersey Ferries is a ‘must do’ North West attraction and the only way to see the world famous, unrivalled Liverpool waterfront. On board the 50 minute river cruise, visitors will discover the well-loved legacy of Liverpool and the river Mersey, with its musical and maritime history. 

While taking in views of Liverpool's riverside architecture and wildlife, you can listen to entertaining audio commentary about the River Mersey's fascinating maritime history. Hear tales of smuggling, music and war - three diverse influences that have touched this friendly city over the years and given it a unique charm.

Departing hourly, the 50 minute river experience sails from Liverpool, Pier Head, calling at Seacombe and Woodside, Wirral. There is simply no better way to witness and enjoy Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and heritage. (Please note that Woodside is now closed for refurbishment until further notice). 

Enjoy on board:

• Fantastic commentary telling you the story of Liverpool and it’s waterfront heritage.
• Coffee Shop & Bar.

What's Included:

View Cruise Map

Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DP

Please note: All Liverpool Pass holders should redeem their ticket for the Mersey Ferry, by visiting the ticket desk first. Head to our Plan Your Visit page for more information about finding this attraction and getting around the city.

English and Cruise fact sheets in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese & Mandarin

Know Before You Go!

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday

Weekends and Bank Holidays

10am – 6pm 

Cruises set off every hour on the hour with no pre-booking necessary.

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Mersey Ferries

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Liverpool: 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise

Liverpool: River Cruise & Sightseeing Bus Tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Mersey Ferries - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Liverpool River Cruise

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The inside story

Hop on the water and enjoy a river cruise in Liverpool. Sightsee from a different perspective and enjoy dreamy perspectives of iconic buildings floating on water.

As you cruise along the River Mersey, see the architectural beauty of the Three Graces. This dominating collection includes the Royal Liver building with the biggest clock face in England – spot the liver birds at the top, the symbol of the city – the Cunard building, and the Port of Liverpool. Its Baroque architecture and fascinating dome is a spectacular sight. In the evening, you can enjoy views of the lights reflecting on the water.

You’ll see the red columns at Royal Albert Dock, a popular tourist area that’s home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum, the Beatles Story and the Tate Liverpool. Liverpool’s waterfront is a vibrant place and river cruises offer audio commentary that will tell you all about the city, as well as the nautical history of the River Mersey. All you have to do is sit back, relax and take in the sights.

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