New ferry carries first passengers across Mersey
BBCA new ferry has officially set sail and carried its first passengers across the Mersey.
The £26m Royal Daffodil, the first Mersey ferry to be built in 60 years, arrived in September.
There have been no crossings between Liverpool and the Wirral for the last few weeks because of technical problems with the other ferry, the Snowdrop.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: "We've got a responsibility to protect these iconic ferries for future generations, and the Royal Daffodil is the next step in making sure that happens."
The Snowdrop, nicknamed the Dazzle Ferry, has been out of service due to an "ongoing mechanical issue" with its engine.
Replacement buses ran instead during peak hours.
Rotheram said: "I'm really proud that the Royal Daffodil is now ready to take her place in that centuries-old story.
"She's a fantastic new vessel, built right here on the banks of the Mersey in Birkenhead, bringing our proud shipbuilding heritage together with the modern facilities passengers rightly expect."
The Royal Daffodil will be running both the morning and evening commuter services, as well as a sightseeing and evening cruises.
The boat has a lounge, catering facilities, open decks and panoramic windows.
The ferry also has an on-board lift, USB charging points, baby-changing facilities and cycle parking.
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