Manchester River Cruises
Manchester, Greater Manchester
About Manchester River Cruises
Set Sail on an Urban Adventure with Manchester River Cruises!
Step away from the busy pavements and hop aboard the Princess Katherine for a truly unique perspective of Manchester. Navigating the historic Manchester Ship Canal, our cruises offer a peaceful yet thrilling way for families to explore the city’s heart. Whether you are a local looking for a new weekend plan or a visitor wanting to see the sights without the long walks, our river tour is the ultimate "floating" classroom and playground combined.
Comfort for Every Little Explorer
The Princess Katherine is designed for family comfort, no matter what the British weather throws at us!
The Best Seats in the House: Choose between our cozy, heated indoor cabin with large panoramic windows or head out to the open-top deck to feel the breeze and get the best holiday snaps.
Family Essentials: We know the "little things" matter. That’s why we have clean onboard toilets and a fully stocked bar serving everything from hot chocolates and juice for the kids to a relaxing drink for the grown-ups.
Interactive Themed Fun & Seasonal Magic
While our City River Tour is our flagship experience, we are famous for our "Kid Takeover" events that turn the boat into a world of imagination:
The Pirate Club: Keep a weather eye out for our seasonal pirate sailings! These interactive trips feature treasure hunts and swashbuckling fun, perfect for burning off energy while cruising the canal.
Cruises with Santa: Our most magical time of year. Join Father Christmas on the water for a festive grotto experience like no other, complete with gifts, treats, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Football Fans Rejoice: We offer special return trips to Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United. It’s the most stylish way to arrive at the "Theatre of Dreams" and a huge hit for any footy-mad children (and adults!).
History Brought to Life
Manchester’s history is built on its waterways. As you glide along, you’ll see the contrast between the city’s industrial past and the shiny, modern skyline of Salford Quays. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to the story of the North—from old shipping routes to the bustling media hub of today—all while enjoying the relaxing rhythm of the water.
Our friendly, professional crew is always on hand to ensure a safe and stress-free voyage. From the moment you walk down the boarding plank, you’re part of the crew. We can’t wait to welcome your family aboard!
Relaxing scenic cruise & local storytelling
Experience Manchester from a whole new perspective on our family-friendly fleet. With large panoramic windows and open-top decks, kids love spotting the city’s giant bridges and hidden waterways while parents sit back and enjoy the cruise.
All-Weather Family Comfort
Rain or shine, the fun stays on track. Our boats feature fully heated indoor cabins, onboard toilets, and a selection of snacks and hot drinks. Whether you're tucking into a hot chocolate inside or catching the breeze on deck, we ensure your family stays comfortable throughout the journey.
Magical Seasonal Highlights
Beyond our daily tours, we host legendary seasonal events that children never forget. From our immersive Father Christmas Cruises during the holidays to occasional themed Pirate and Mermaid adventures, there is always a special reason to come back and set sail with us.
Facilities
Toilets
Dog Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, 11:00 - 17:00
We operate most days but please check our booking page for the exact schedule as this can change from week to week.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (2-15) : £6.00
- Adult (16-18+) : £12.00
General Admission
Adults: £9.00
Kids: £5.00
Concessions: £7.00
Family (2 adults, 2 kids): £23.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Manchester River Cruises by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Softdrinks, beers, wine, snacks such as nuts, crips and chocolate
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Boarding is from underneath the Lowry footbridge, just outside the outlet mall and adjacent to the Lowry Arts Theatre.
Pier 8, Salford Quays
Manchester
Greater Manchester
M6 8QA
England
///sing.twin.shot The boarding point is under the Millennium Footbridge (blue and white with two pillars on either side) in between the Lowry Theatre and the Quayside Shopping Centre.
Tel: 0161 960 0534
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
The closest tram stops are at Media City and the Imperial War Museum North. There is paid public parking at the Quayside Shopping Centre and regular buses stopping by the Lowry Theatre.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 12:47 02/03/2026
Manchester River Cruises Reviews
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