New ferry officially enters service on the River Mersey

A new ferry has officially entered service on the River Mersey for the first time in more than 60 years.

Following a series of sea trials and passenger trips, including one carrying the prime minister, the Royal Daffodil will now operate regular commuter crossings as well as sightseeing and evening cruises.

The £26m vessel arrived on Merseyside in September and is the first new addition to the iconic Mersey Ferries fleet since the 1960s.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said the new ferry would help safeguard the service for future generations. He said: "We've got a responsibility to protect these iconic ferries for future generations, and the Royal Daffodil is the next step in making sure that happens."

The ferry's introduction comes after there were no commuter crossings between Liverpool and the Wirral for several weeks because of technical problems with the Snowdrop.

The vessel, nicknamed the Dazzle Ferry, has been out of service due to an "ongoing mechanical issue" with its engine.

The Royal Daffodil has a lounge, catering facilities, open decks and panoramic windows.

The ferry also has an on-board lift, USB charging points, baby-changing facilities and cycle parking.

Rotheram said: "She's a fantastic new vessel, built right here on the banks of the Mersey in Birkenhead, bringing our proud shipbuilding heritage together with the modern facilities passengers rightly expect."

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