Mersey Ferry crews pass LJMU training

Mersey Ferries captains and crews will be 100% prepared for their landmark new boat after completing training at Liverpool John Moores University.

Liverpool City Region launches the £26m Cammell Laird-built vessel in summer 2026 – the first new ferry boat in 60 years.

The crews were trained at the university’s Maritime Centre, which boasts the only ship simulator set up of its kind at a UK research institution.

The simulator course has allowed captains to rehearse emergency stops, precision docking, tight manoeuvring, and multi-weather scenarios, all on a realistic digital version of the River Mersey.

Royal Daffodil

Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram recently took the helm at LJMU’s maritime lab, where the 12 Mersey Ferry Officers, captains and mates were trained.

The vessel to be called Royal Daffodil will replace one of the current pair, the Royal Iris and the Snowdrop which have struggled at times under the workload of daily crossings, river cruises, special trips out into the bay and voyages up the Manchester Ship Canal.

Led by Dr Abdul Khalique, the Maritime Centre staff built a mathematically accurate simulator model of the new ferry, terminals and the river itself. A key focus was ensuring that captains and mates could translate their experience in the old systems to the more agile and technically complex Azipod and bow-thruster configuration.

There was also strong emphasis on practical ship-handling proficiency, including controlled emergency manoeuvres and operations in the event of malfunctions.

A 'demanding river'

Dr Khalique said: “The Mersey presents environmental and operational characteristics that make pilotage on the river distinctly demanding. Its strong tidal streams, rapid changes in depth, and the influence of shifting weather require precise vessel control and an ability to anticipate rapid variations in handling behaviour.

“Navigating within a busy, historically constrained waterway also means that manoeuvres often occur in confined spaces, making the Royal Daffodil’s enhanced responsiveness both an advantage and a responsibility for trained officers.

“We, as a leading maritime university, were delighted to assist in writing this latest chapter in the history of the world-famous Mersey Ferries.”

Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “Royal Daffodil is cleaner, greener and built right here on the banks of the Mersey. It’s a real symbol of the pride, innovation and graft that make our area special.

“Seeing our captains mastering this new technology shows that, while the kit might be cutting-edge, the spirit of the ferries remains exactly the same.”