A NEW cruise launched to take people on a trip through the regions industrial heritage.
The ferry set off on its first voyage from the National Waterways Museum on Thursday, June 23, along the Manchester Ship Canal to Salford Quays, Greater Manchester.
Mayor of Ellesmere Port, councillor Angela Claydon, was joined by John Inch, general manager of the National Waterways Museum to welcome the ferry cruise to Ellesmere Port.
Cllr Claydon said: “This is an exciting attraction for Ellesmere Port and the first step in the revival of the Ellesmere Port Waterfront.
“Ellesmere Port will also be welcoming passengers from Manchester who I’m sure will enjoy the National Waterways Museum, waterfront and town before their return home.”
Robert Mee, chairman of Ellesmere Port’s Development Board said: “The Ellesmere Port Waterfront Vision includes the new cruise as a part of the plan to significantly increase visitor numbers and use by residents.
“We aim to generate interest and investment in other facilities such as cafes and restaurants, new homes and even other major leisure attractions”.
Neil Scales, chief executive of Merseytravel added: “This is an exciting project for us, and a natural tie in with the National Waterways Museum. Starting and ending cruises at Telford Quay means we no longer have to worry about the tides on the River Mersey. Year on year more and more people enjoy the cruises we operate along the Manchester Ship Canal on board the world famous Mersey Ferries.”
The fascinating five-hour voyage takes in the spectacular scenery of industrial heritage and features commentaries explaining how the canal shaped the history of the region.
There is a two-and-a-half hour stopover at Salford Quays, where you can visit The Lowry, Imperial War Museum, or Lowry Outlet Mall.
Tickets are available for the next cruise sailing on Saturday 24 September, with Adult tickets priced at £35 and Seniors & Children at £33 all including return bus transfer to your original destination. For more information on sailing dates visit www.merseyferries.co.uk
The entry price to the National Waterways Museum is discounted to adults £5, seniors £4 and children £3 when a valid canal cruise ticket is shown. Tickets are available by advance booking.
