Routes & Operators
Mersey Ferries stay suspended for a seventh day as Snowdrop is repaired
Mersey Ferries commuter sailings and river cruises have been suspended for a seventh day because of a mechanical fault in Snowdrop's engine. Royal Daffodil is not yet in passenger service, and a replacement bus is running between Seacombe and Hamilton Square.
Source: Liverpool Echo (opens in a new tab)
The Liverpool Echo reported on 16 October 2026 that Mersey Ferries services were suspended for a seventh consecutive day. The ferries were first suspended last Saturday. There have been no morning or evening commuter services and no river cruises.
Mersey Ferries said on social media that services were suspended because of mechanical issues, and that Merseyrail would accept Mersey Ferries tickets for commuter sailing times only. A further statement said a mechanical issue with Snowdrop's engine meant the commuter service and the Liverpool Sightseeing River Cruise could not run until further notice. Passengers on the morning and evening commuter services can use a replacement bus between Seacombe Ferry Terminal and Hamilton Square railway station. Engineers are working on Snowdrop.
The Echo said Snowdrop is the only vessel on the route. Royal Iris was retired and decommissioned earlier this year after 67 years. Royal Daffodil, which the Echo described as the new £26m ferry, was on initial passenger trials last week, has not entered full passenger service, and is currently unavailable. The Echo said it is expected to enter full service later this month and is completing final trials.