Description
Manchester River Cruises offers scenic river and canal tours through the heart of Manchester and Salford Quays. A family-built business with over 100 years of heritage on Manchester’s waterways, it provides relaxing sightseeing cruises and unique on-board experiences. It’s a great way to explore the city’s industrial past and modern skyline from the water.
The City River Tours run for 60 minutes aboard the Princess Katherine or Isabella, cruising through Salford Quays and the historic Manchester Ship Canal with live English commentary. Highlights include MediaCityUK, Old Trafford Football Stadium, Manchester Dry Docks, Mode Wheel Locks, Imperial War Museum North, Stephenson’s 1830 Bridge, Pomona Docks and the River Irwell. The Boat to Old Trafford service offers a 30-minute matchday journey from Ralli Quay to near the stadium, with a fully stocked onboard bar. Facilities include a bar on board, toilets, group bookings, pet-friendly access, and private hire options for birthdays, hen parties, and corporate events with PA system, DJ options, and catering.
City River Tours prices start from £12 Adult, £6 Child, £0 Infant, £30 Family, and £10 Senior. Boat to Old Trafford tickets are from £15 per person, and Private Hire of Isabella costs £600 for 2 hours or £800 for 3 hours.
Overall, Manchester River Cruises provides a relaxed and enjoyable way to experience the city from a different perspective. Whether sightseeing, travelling to a football match, or hosting a private celebration, it offers a memorable experience on Manchester’s historic waterways.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: Yes
Features
City River Tours: Hop aboard the Princess Katherine or Isabella for a 60-minute non-stop round-trip river cruise through Salford Quays and the historic Manchester Ship Canal. Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering your city, this sightseeing tour offers a fresh, unforgettable view of Manchester’s industrial past and dynamic present. Enjoy English commentary as we guide you through the stories behind the canal, its iconic structures, and the landmarks that shaped the city’s skyline.
Your tour highlights include:
- MediaCityUK – Home to the BBC, ITV, and a vibrant creative scene
- Old Trafford Football Stadium – The legendary home of Manchester United
- Manchester Dry Docks – A glimpse into the city’s shipbuilding heritage
- Mode Wheel Locks – An engineering feat of the working canal system
- Imperial War Museum North – A striking waterside architectural icon
- Stephenson’s 1830 Bridge – One of the world’s oldest railway bridges!
- Pomona Docks, River Irwell, and more – Lesser-known gems with rich stories
Boat to Old Trafford: We provide the ultimate alternative for Match day travel to Old Trafford. Make your way to the stadium for all Manchester United home games without the hassle of traffic and parking. The boat takes you from Ralli Quay, opposite Spinningfields to within a short walk of Old Trafford. The journey takes just half an hour, enough time to relax with a cold beer or two from our fully stocked bar before you get to the game. Departure time is 1 hour before kick off from the other side of the river to Spinningfields. We’re close to the train stations (Salford Central, Manchester Piccadilly) so you can leave your car at home and relax.
On Board Events
2.65 miles
