00:00A new ferry is nearing the end of preparations to carry passengers across the Mersey.
00:06Royal Daffodil is the first vessel built for the service since the 1960s
00:11and was constructed at Camel Laird in Birkenhead, marking an important new chapter.
00:17The £26 million vessel was confirmed in 2023, with construction beginning in November 2024.
00:25Water tests have taken place and the ferry is moving through a readiness process
00:30before passenger operations can begin, subject to certification.
00:36A formal naming ceremony is planned for September 22nd.
00:40A special sailing is scheduled for September 29th, while entry into passenger service is planned for October.
00:47That remains subject to Maritime and Coast Guard Agency certification and crew assessment.
00:52The service is also preparing for future investment in Snowdrop.
00:56Planned work includes maintenance, statutory requirements, improvements to passenger areas
01:02and accessibility, plus a main engine overhaul.
01:06The aim is to make the vessels interchangeable, strengthen service resilience and support reliable operations.
01:14Royal Iris of the Mersey ended more than 60 years out of service in March.
01:18The Royal Daffodil is intended to increase passenger numbers and expand cruises.
01:23Woodside renewal of landing stage and link span bridge is complete, but services have no confirmed return date.
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