The Royal Iris ferry, a cherished icon of Liverpool, has officially made its final journey on March 29, 2026, after 66 years of service. This beloved vessel has carried over 17 million passengers since its inception in 1960, becoming a significant part of the community’s history and culture.
Known for its memorable appearances, the Royal Iris featured prominently in the 1965 film Ferry Cross the Mersey, which further cemented its status as a local landmark. As the ferry prepares to retire, it leaves behind a legacy filled with personal stories and fond memories.
John Lunt, a local resident, shared his nostalgia, stating, “I’ve got great memories [of the ferry]. My eldest child’s 43, and we used to regularly come on.” Such sentiments reflect the deep emotional connection many have with the Royal Iris, which has remained largely unchanged over the decades.
Margorie Humber echoed similar feelings, noting, “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 sense of continuity has made the Royal Iris not just a mode of transport, but a vessel of memories for countless families.
As the Royal Iris bids farewell, it will be replaced by the new £26 million vessel, the Royal Daffodil, later this year. An interim service will be provided by the Snowdrop during the transition. This change marks a new chapter for ferry services on the River Mersey.
While the Royal Daffodil promises modern amenities and improved service, the emotional impact of the Royal Iris’s departure is palpable among its loyal passengers. The ferry has been a significant asset to Liverpool since its inception, and its absence will be felt by many.
As the community prepares for the arrival of the Royal Daffodil, there is a mix of excitement and nostalgia. The Royal Iris has not only been a means of transportation but also a vessel of cherished memories for generations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact date of the Royal Daffodil’s launch, but it is anticipated to begin passenger service later this year. The transition symbolizes both an end and a new beginning for ferry travel on the River Mersey.