New Mersey Ferry takes to the river for the very first time..

Today marked a historic milestone at APCL Cammell Laird as the new Mersey Ferry took to the river for the very first time.

In a carefully managed 24-hour operation, the Royal Daffodil was moved out of APCL Cammell Laird’s construction hall to the river’s edge to allow the incoming tide to slowly lift her clear and float the vessel for the very first time.

She was then tugged to APCL Cammell Laird’s Wet Basin where engineers will carry out further work ahead of full sea trials early next year.

David Mc Ginley, CEO of APCL Group, said: “The basin test is a vital stage in the shipbuilding process. It’s the first time a new vessel meets the water, and it allows us to confirm that everything performs as expected before she goes to sea. Seeing the Royal Daffodil afloat for the first time is a huge achievement for everyone involved in her construction.

"This is the 16th Mersey Ferry vessel we have constructed here in APCL Cammell Laird on the banks of the Mersey and we our proud to continue our involvement in this world famous service.”

The Royal Daffodil will remain in the wet basin until early 2026 for further fit-out work before beginning river trials.