A ‘much-loved’ Mersey River ferry will be taken out of service after 67 years.
The Royal Iris of the Mersey has been a staple of the region’s waterway since it first launched in 1959 and became recognised as the official ‘Ferry Cross the Mersey’.
Originally named Mountwood, the vessel was renamed in a 2001 refurbishment to take the name of the original Royal Iris, which ceased operations a decade earlier.
Up to 600,000 passengers a year are estimated have been transported across the Mersey by the vintage ferry and its sister vessel the Snowdrop.
But Mersey Ferries have confirmed that the Royal Iris of the Mersey will be replaced later this year by the new Royal Daffodil, which has been built at a £26 million cost.
A statement read: “The Royal Iris of the Mersey has now entered the decommissioning process as we prepare to welcome the Royal Daffodil into the fleet later this year.
“The Royal Iris has been a much-loved part of the river for many years, and we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to step aboard and enjoy a trip while she’s still sailing, before she bids her final farewell to the Mersey.
“As she approaches the end of her service, we’re reflecting on her legacy and considering how best to mark her farewell, with further details to be confirmed in due course.”