Mersey ferry to be decommissioned after 67 years

A "much-loved" ferry that has crossed the River Mersey for 67 years is being decommissioned.

Mersey Ferries confirmed The Royal Iris of the Mersey is to be replaced by the new £26m Royal Daffodil later this year.

From its launch in Devon in 1959 until a major refurbishment in 2001, The Royal Iris was named Mountwood. She was renamed on her return to service in 2002, following a major revamp.

Mersey Ferries said it was considering how best to mark her farewell "with further details to be confirmed in due course".

The Royal Iris regularly sails along the river, taking passengers on River Explorer Cruises, along with trips along the Manchester Ship Canal and evening cruises too.

Mersey Ferries said: "The Royal Iris of the Mersey has now entered the decommissioning process as we prepare to welcome the Royal Daffodil into the fleet later this year.

"The Royal Iris has been a much-loved part of the river for many years, and we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to step aboard and enjoy a trip while she's still sailing, before she bids her final farewell to the Mersey.

"As she approaches the end of her service, we're reflecting on her legacy and considering how best to mark her farewell, with further details to be confirmed in due course."

Boat travel on the River Mersey has a long and storied history.

Long before the modern day sailings started in the 1960s, Benedictine Monks once organised crossings across the river as early as 1150 AD.

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