Exterior Images of New Mersey Ferry Released Ahead of Service

The exterior of the inaugural Mersey Ferry, the first to be constructed in over six decades, has been revealed through newly released images. This £26 million vessel is set to feature advanced navigation and steering systems, dedicated bike storage, expansive open-plan decks, and areas designed for events and functions. The ferry will maintain the fleet’s characteristic red, black, and white colour palette, along with a false funnel, acknowledging the Mersey Ferries’ historical legacy, while incorporating a modern interior design. Birkenhead shipbuilder Cammell Laird is constructing this new accessible vessel, which is anticipated to commence service by summer 2026. Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram has characterized it as “visually striking” and possessing “a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary design”. Rotheram stated that “The world-famous Mersey Ferries have served the people of the Liverpool City Region for over 800 years”. He also mentioned that funds were being allocated to the Seacombe and Woodside terminals in Wirral “to ensure the ferries remain a unique attraction on the River Mersey for generations to come”. According to Rotheram, the new ferry is “as iconic as the Liver Building or the Cammell Laird shipyard where it will be built”. The initial ferry services transporting individuals across the Mersey were managed in the 13th Century by the monks of Birkenhead Priory. David McGinley, who leads APCL Group, the parent company of Cammell Laird, commented: “Construction of the new ferry is now well underway, and the vessel is really starting to take shape.” He added that efforts were being made “around the clock to make these images a reality”. A spokesperson for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority indicated that the vessel would also incorporate advanced green technologies aimed at minimizing its environmental footprint.