Manchester River Cruises

Manchester River Cruises logo

About Manchester River Cruises

Manchester River Cruises is a family-friendly sightseeing cruise from Salford Quays, giving visitors a relaxed way to see Manchester from the water. Step aboard near The Lowry and enjoy views along the Manchester Ship Canal, with indoor seating, outdoor space, toilets and drinks available onboard. It’s a great choice for families who want an easy city activity with less walking and plenty to spot along the route.

  • 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.

Attraction Details

Opening Times

Regular 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

City River Tour departures usually include 11:30, 12:45, 14:00 and 15:15, with each cruise lasting 60 minutes. Sailing times can change by date, weather, river conditions and availability, so check your selected booking slot before travelling.

Plan Your Visit

Clock IconTypical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Tick IconSuitable for Kids and Adults too

FAQs

Directions

Manchester River Cruises logo

Manchester River Cruises

Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M50 3RB, 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

This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.

Last updated: 13:44 27/07/2026

Manchester River Cruises Reviews

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