Take a 60 to 70-minute cruise along Manchester's historic Ship Canal and River Irwell on board a boat from central Manchester. Venture through the industrial heartland of the north of England and see historic monuments such as Stephenson's railway bridge.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Duration 65 minutes: Check availability to see starting times.
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Live tour guide: English
Audio guide included: English

Highlights

Get a unique view of Stephenson's 1830 railway bridge and the contrasting Ordsall Chord
Cruise past Manchester United's home ground, known as the "Theatre of Dreams"
See highlights, from the ultra-modern Media City to the railway arches over Hulme Lock
Learn about Manchester's industrial past and exciting future from the on-board commentary

Full description

Climb aboard a pleasure boat in central Manchester and embark on a trip to the heart of Manchester's old docklands into the center of the city. See sights from the modern Media City, now home to the BBC and the new home of ITV's Coronation Street, to the imposing Old Trafford football stadium and George Stephenson’s 1830 railway bridge. Pass by the first of the 120 meter long locks of the Manchester Ship Canal, and admire the impressive Imperial War Museum and old Pomona Docks before heading into the heart of Manchester along the River Irwell. Listen to a full commentary that describes the history of the Manchester Ship Canal and the industries that made the city one of the powerhouses of Europe in the 19th century. Hear about the exciting future now being built.

Includes

60-70 minute cruise
On board commentary
Bathrooms on board
Departure from Manchester City Center

Food and drinks

Not suitable for

Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Ralli Quay is on the other side of the river from the People's History Museum and opposite the Dockyard Bar. There are steps down to the quayside in front of the office building with a brick façade and blue windows at the end of the silver foot bridge; access by road is easier via the Bridge Street side of Stanley Street. The nearest parking is at the NCP New Bailey. Google Maps link to the exact meeting point is: https://goo.gl/maps/aFdgK25m68e1LvxZA

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Important information

Not allowed

Party groups

Know before you go

The cruise is not wheelchair accessible as there are some steps descending into the vessel, and there are a series of steps down to the quay side before boarding the vessel

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 576 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.5/5
Transportation
4.7/5
Value for money
4.6/5
Safety
4.8/5

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A nice way to spend an hour in Manchester. The guides were very informative and gave a good account of the history of the river, canals and docks. It's almost impossible to imagine how the place must have looked during its industrial heyday, and equally difficult to comprehend the amount of new development that's going on at the moment. Very good value for £10.

July 3, 2022

We had a lovely time just a pity it was raining. The boat cruise in manchester was lovely, and we also spent some time in the workers museum around the corner. Lovely cafe. We would also recommend the cruise which was very informative and interesting. Some interesting architecture seen along the way. It is also a cruise you can hop on and off so you can visit the quays also.

June 12, 2022

Booked this pre concert to hqve a day out, great value for money, interesting facts about the Mersey was a lovely day little chilly on top deck so went below, had cold drinks and pringles to snack on whilst touring, commentary was clear and understandable really enjoyed this boat tour took approx 60 mins with was great really enjoyed and would recommend

Manchester: City Center Canal Cruise with Live Commentary

Manchester: City Center Canal Cruise with Live Commentary

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