Royal Iris Ferry Retires After 66 Years of Service

The Royal Iris ferry, a significant part of Liverpool’s maritime history, has officially retired after 66 years of service, marking the end of an era for the River Mersey. Passengers boarded the Royal Iris for the last time on March 29, 2026, concluding a journey that has seen the ferry transport over 17 million people since its inception in 1960.

Originally launched in 1960, the Royal Iris became a beloved icon, even featuring in the 1965 film Ferry Cross the Mersey. Its nostalgic charm was highlighted by local residents, with Margorie Humber stating, “It is identical, there’s no difference. That’s what’s so atmospheric about it, that it does hark back to a different era.” This sentiment reflects the deep connections many have formed with the ferry over the decades.

John Lunt, who reminisced about using the ferry with his children, noted, “I’ve got great memories [of the ferry]. My eldest child’s 43, and we used to regularly come on.” Such personal stories underscore the Royal Iris’s role as more than just a mode of transport; it has been a vessel of memories for families across generations.

The Royal Iris will be replaced by the new £26 million vessel, the Royal Daffodil, which is set to begin passenger service later this year. In the interim, an alternative service will be operated on the Snowdrop, ensuring continued connectivity for commuters and tourists alike.

Throughout its operational history, the Royal Iris has been a significant asset to Liverpool, contributing to the local economy and tourism. Its retirement marks a notable transition in the region’s transport landscape.

As the community bids farewell to the Royal Iris, the legacy of this ferry will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those who traveled its waters. The transition to the Royal Daffodil represents not just a change in vessels but a new chapter in the ongoing story of Liverpool’s maritime heritage.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact launch date of the Royal Daffodil, but anticipation is building as the city prepares for this new addition to its fleet.