Liverpool: 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise
Liverpool, England
- 50 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Enjoy a relaxing way to explore Liverpool—and admire a perspective of the city that many other visitors miss—aboard a sightseeing cruise on the River Mersey. Avoid becoming footsore and just sit back, relax, and soak in the riverside scenery; this time-saving tour passes many of Liverpool's top waterfront attractions. As you go, the included audio commentary reveals the stories behind the sights.
- Secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment
- Enjoy a more relaxing way to see the city and its key sights
- This River Mersey cruise is great for first-time Liverpool visitors
- Choose from a range of departure times available throughout the day
What's Included
- Roundtrip ferry
- Digital commentary available by scanning QR code on a smart device. Bring Headphones.
- Gratuities
- Hotel pick-up and drop off
- Headphones
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Pier HeadLiverpool L3 1DP, UK
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
At the appointed time, meet your River Mersey ferry at Pier Head, hop aboard, and get settled.
Set off for a loop along the river past many of the city's top sights. Look out for highlights from the Tate Liverpool and Museum of Liverpool to the city's two cathedrals.
As you go, relax and soak in the fresh breezes. The on-board audio commentary provides in-depth narration, and shares the stories behind the sights along the way.
Finally, after roughly an hour on the water, return to the pier, where this tour ends.
Set off for a loop along the river past many of the city's top sights. Look out for highlights from the Tate Liverpool and Museum of Liverpool to the city's two cathedrals.
As you go, relax and soak in the fresh breezes. The on-board audio commentary provides in-depth narration, and shares the stories behind the sights along the way.
Finally, after roughly an hour on the water, return to the pier, where this tour ends.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King Liverpool (Pass By)
Liverpool Cathedral (Pass By)
Royal Liver Building 360 Tour (Pass By)
Museum of Liverpool (Pass By)
Tate Liverpool (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Coffee shop & restrooms can be found on-board the ferry
- Voucher is valid for anytime on day of travel - The Cruise departs on the hour every hour from Liverpool Pier Head. Just arrive at least 20 minutes beforehand to redeem your voucher as the ferry leaves on the hour. Please check Mersey Ferries website for up to date departures and notices.
- Please check Mersey Ferries Website for up to date departures and daily information / notices.
- From 26 February 2026, MERSEY FERRIES be offering a free digital audio guide as part of a one-month trial. Simply scan the QR code located at each ferry terminal or onboard the Mersey Ferry to access it. For the best experience, please bring your own headphones, ensure your phone is fully charged, and have mobile data enabled. During this trial period, the commentary will not play through the external speaker system. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can request a printed cruise route fact sheet from our team at the ferry terminal which is available in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Ukraine and Arabic.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 370 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.2
based on 1,251 reviews
Maria_M, Mar 2026
Infotmative and amazing, the time provided for the tour was more than enough, enjoyed the beautiful views.
Andy_M, Mar 2026
A great audio guide is available via an app on smart phone was spoiled but other passengers playing the guide through phone speakers although the well documented instructions ask that you use headphones!
Janette_R, Mar 2026
Weather didn't help as it was raining. cloudy and miserable, but just a grey boring scene!
We had booked to go the previous day, but the Liverpool half marathon was on and we were unable to get to the ferry, so had to lose our money and re-book the ferry. We're not able to walk too far due to disability and would have had to walk a long way to the ferry when all the surrounding roads were closed, preventing us getting a cab there. It might have been nice if something had been added to the site noting the restrictive access on that day. I did message, asking if we could transfer to the following day, but did not get a response.
We just wanted to do the famous ferry 'cross the Mersey, so we did it, but I wouldn't recommend it as being anything special, when there are so many more interesting things to do in the City.
Murali_K, Dec 2025
I feel its a Waste of time and waste of money its boring for fifty minutes. I would not recommeed it. Its 26 pounds.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Sorry that you were disappointed The price for the 50 minute cruise with commentary is £13 for a full price adult.
Nicole_V, Dec 2025
I mean, not sure what the hype is. The boat was so incredibly rusty and in bad shape. The pictures shown are deceiving as this is not the boat that was facilitating the cruises. The cruise is basically going around in a circle with commentary. Didn't find it interesting or worth the money.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Sorry you were disappointed. We have two ferries that operate the River Explorer Cruise. They are both heritage ferries but one is painted in our traditional colours and the other is painted in the Dazzle colours. Both are about 60 years old and require regular maintenance - we advise on our website which one is currently in service. In 2026 we are welcoming a brand new ferry The Royal Daffodil the first new build in over 60 years.
colleen_w, Nov 2025
It was a brilliant experience, the best city , the people were brilliant and helpful and we will be back again soon
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Wow! what a wonderful 5 star review - thank you! We look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Dylan_D, Nov 2025
it was a really good tour of both liverpool and the wirral and they tell you stories about the past which i found really interesting. However, it was really cold in the winter (We went in october) so id suggest bringing a big coat and getting a hot chocolate from the on-boat shop.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for your great review - we are pleased you enjoyed the experience despite the cold. A hot chocolate sounds a great idea!
Sharon_C, Oct 2025
Great trip across the Mersey - lots to see and a great experience - my granddaughter loved it and so did we
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for the great review - glad you all loved the cruise. Thanks for visiting us.
Jeanne_S, Oct 2025
Nice sights of landmarks on the River. Ferry very noisy. Website to review the excursion too way too long and wouldn’t allow me to continue
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for the review Jeanne, we are pleased you enjoyed the views. The ferry can be busy when the schools are on holiday.
Patricia_M, Oct 2025
This was an absolutely delightful experience! It was fun and informative! I learned a lot about Liverpool and the Beatles. Damion and Joe were awesome. Damion is a great storyteller and musician!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for the 5 stars Patricia, it is good to hear how much you enjoyed the ferry and the sightseeing bus.
Leigh_A, Oct 2025
Unfortunately the river cruise was cancelled because of bad weather. Waiting for a refund. Operator indicated that need to contact Viator
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Sorry , we had to cancel the cruises that day for safety reasons due to storm Amy. All those with tickets were refunded upon applying for the refund.
Griet_V, Sep 2025
Very interesting information about Liverpool. Clear soundsystem. Perfect timing.
We had beautiful, sunny weather with very clear light. Great for good pics.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for the lovely review, we are please you enjoyed the cruise.
Kim_J, Sep 2025
Lots of information given , we were lucky enough to have beautiful September weather that day which made it even more enjoyable
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for giving us 5 stars Kim, we are pleased to hear you enjoyed the cruise.
Shauni_F, Sep 2025
Nice boat trip , especially when the weather is good. Get to see all the sights from the river Mersey
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for the review , we are glad you enjoyed your trip on the Mersey
Denise_R, Sep 2025
It was a short trip but with interesting information. It was a good view of the city from the river.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for the review Denise - glad you enjoyed it.
Elizabeth_W, Sep 2025
Interesting commentary. Enjoyed seeing the different parts of the docks on both sides and hearing about the history. Something warm to do if it's cold and raining.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for the lovely review Elizabeth
Peter_B, Sep 2025
It was a great trip. The tour guide was very good and informative. Would recommend to anyone visiting Liverpool
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for giving us 5 stars Peter
Pat_B, Sep 2025
Unfortunately there was a drunken woman threatening to jump over the railings and took a while for staff to restrain her.She was loud and shouting.Couldnt hear the commentary,we were worried for her safety and spoiled and distracted which should have been a relaxing cruise.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for your feedback, sadly the lady in question was ill and was trying to harm herself so we have to take theses issues seriously. If you had spoken to our staff they would have allowed you to sail again that day so that you could have a more relaxing cruise.
Yvonne_H, Sep 2025
Nice way to see Liverpool and its sights. Drinks hot & cold some alcoholic drinks are available and a small selection of cakes available on board
Dilla_D, Aug 2025
All good from booking finding the site on net and to getting the ticket to the meeting point and to the ride itself
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for the 5 stars Dilla , we do appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed it.
Sharlene_A, Aug 2025
I feel it was more of a relaxing ride on the river than an educational journey about the music, especially the song, Ferry Cross the Mersey and Jerry Marsden, which is what I was expecting.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Sorry you felt disappointed. The cruise is a 50 minute sightseeing tour with a commentary. We just play a few seconds of the song during the tour. It is not advertised as a music cruise.
Nancy_L, Aug 2025
Short ferry ride on the river that gives you a nice overview of the Liverpool city riverfront. Pleasant ride at a decent price.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for your review so glad you had a pleasant day.
Jennifer_L, Aug 2025
The cruise is not on the ferry shown in the picture, it's a black and white ferry. The information guide whilst on the ferry was interesting and informative
Response from Host, Aug 2025
We have two ferries that operate our river cruises, both of which are heritage ferries and are over 60 years old. One was painted in more recent years in the Dazzle colours and whilst we try and keep this vessel on the river as often as possible, both vessels need regular maintenance due to their age. When the Dazzle comes off the river for maintenance then our more traditional looking ferry takes over. We amend our website to show which Ferry will be operating the cruises so you can always check prior to travel.
Steven_W, Jul 2025
I was looking for a multi colored boat
It is just a ferry from one side to the other.
I was lead to Believe from the picture-
Response from Host, Aug 2025
We have two ferries that operate our river cruises, both of which are heritage ferries and are over 60 years old. One was painted in more recent years in the Dazzle colours and whilst we try and keep this vessel on the river as often as possible, both vessels need regular maintenance due to their age. When the Dazzle comes off the river for maintenance then our more traditional looking ferry takes over. We amend our website to show which Ferry will be operating the cruises so you can always check prior to travel.
David_C, Jul 2025
The coach seats were a little uncomfortable.
The tour person was good but could have given more information.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Many thanks for your feedback it's really appreciated
Kamali_G, Jul 2025
Excellent opportunity to see Liverpool’s waterfront and Wirral.
Historical Insight.
Commentary is informative but basic audio quality may vary.
Reasonably priced, Customer Service
Staff are generally helpful and attentive.
Comfort & Atmosphere.
Missing cafe inside.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Many thanks for your review it's much appreciated.
Katie_M, Jul 2025
Great experience being able to sit and listen to the history of the buildings surrounding the Mersey River
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your review it's much appreciated!
Nancy_W, Jul 2025
I do this trip twice a year. We lost our little boy aged 7 years to Cancer and today was 50th anniversary. His ashes are in the Mersey so I scatter Roses from the boat. My Husband and my little dog wait on the quayside for me. The sailors are amazing... kind, thoughtful. The weather was beautiful and there were lots of school children on today. Sorry for my sad story, but the visitors trip is well worth attending. Liverpool will always be my city, although we moved to Runcorn 52 years ago. Love Nancy aged 81 years. xx Many thanks to all.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Hello Nancy, thank you so much for sharing with us your story. The Mersey holds a lot of different memories for many people. It's a place where you can reflect and remember. So glad the weather was nice and we look forward to welcoming you onboard again soon - take care....
James_P, Jul 2025
Was not what we were expecting. Although advertised as 50 minutes, spent 10 minutes unloading and loading new passengers mid way. There were slso many small kids that stood in front of us who were sitting down.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your feedback. Sorry you were disappointed - The cruise is a 50 minute sightseeing cruise of the River Mersey with commentary throughout. There is a 5 minute stop to let guests alight/board at Seacombe but then the cruise continues.
Charles_J, Jul 2025
Great way to see the city, and the commentary helps to provide some orientation and historical context.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Many thanks for the 5 star review so glad you enjoyed it!
From $19.11
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Liverpool: 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise
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