THE funnel of the 1st new Mersey Ferry in more than 60 years was lowered into place today - marking completion of the high-tech vessel’s steel superstructure.

Mayor Steve Rotheram was on hand to watch the funnel slot into place on top of the 14m high Royal Daffodil at a special ceremony at APCL Cammell Laird shipyard, Birkenhead.

Standing 3.6 metres tall and weighing around 2.5 tonnes, the funnel will eventually be painted red in line with the world-famous Mersey Ferries’ traditional red, white and black colour scheme.

The next step in the exciting new build will be to carry  out  the installation of all the mechanical and electric services to bring the ferry into operation, along with completion of the interior fit out as well as the internal and external painting.

The Royal Daffodil is due to take to the water in 2026 and will be the first new addition to the Mersey Ferries fleet since the 1960s. The vessel is being designed with modern hybrid propulsion that will offer improved environmental performance, greater accessibility, and enhanced comfort for passengers - while reflecting the proud maritime history of the Mersey Ferries.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:- “The Mersey Ferries are more than just a way to get from A to B – they’re a symbol of our identity, heritage, and pride. Generations have grown up with them, and I’m determined to ensure they remain part of our future, too. Today’s milestone isn’t just about lowering a funnel – it’s about raising expectations for what transport in our region can be: cleaner, greener, and built right here in our city region by local workers. The new Royal Daffodil will carry the spirit of the Mersey with her, and – as my friend Gerry Marsden once said – I can't wait to see this Ferry 'Cross the Mersey.” 

The funnel is a crucial component of the ship, allowing exhaust from the three main engines to be safely expelled while supporting ventilation of the engine spaces.

Wirral shipbuilder Cammell Laird, which has played a strategic role in UK shipbuilding for the past 200 years, is constructing the £26m Royal Daffodil on behalf of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

It reflects a significant investment in modernising the ferry service, making it more sustainable and accessible, while continuing to celebrate its rich legacy.

David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group, said:- “Today marks a significant milestone in what is a landmark project, not just for APCL Cammell Laird but for shipbuilding in the wider Merseyside region. The installation of the funnel signals the completion of the Royal Daffodil’s steel structure and brings us one step closer to delivering a vessel that combines innovation, heritage, and sustainability. This ferry is being built by our local workforce and apprentices, using local skills that has gone into every stage of its construction. We look forward to completing the construction of the ferry and launching her on the river Mersey.”

John Drummond, Project Director at APCL Cammell Laird, said:- “Being entrusted with building the 1st new Mersey Ferry in over 60 years is a real honour – and a responsibility we take seriously. As we continue with the next phase of the build, including mechanical systems and interior fit out, we look forward to seeing this iconic vessel take to the water and serve future generations of passengers across the Mersey.”

The Royal Daffodil will offer a world-class experience for passengers thanks to improved accessibility – including a lift, allowing easy access to the upper deck - new seating areas and bars. The vessel will feature large open plan decks as well as event spaces for corporate functions and private parties.

Mersey Ferries play a key role in enhancing the tourism experience across the Liverpool City Region, contributing to the wider economic impact of over £6 billion generated by the sector in 2023. Iconic and accessible, Mersey Ferries is part of the region’s growing appeal - highlighted by a 21% rise in tourism value and over 60 million visitors.

The vessel has been designed to harness state-of-the-art green technology, with a cutting-edge Azipod propeller system for increased fuel efficiency, along with a diesel-electric hybrid-ready engine.