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The new Mersey Ferry is closer to arriving than ever, as Mersey Ferries has submitted a licensing application to Wirral Council for the £26m Royal Daffodil.
Royal Daffodil was built at the famous Cammell Laird shipyard here in Birkenhead. And, as you may've guessed, its similar sister ship of the same name is a popular restaurant and bar on Liverpool's Canning Dock.
According to Birkenhead News, the licensing application seeks permission for alcohol to be served on board from 11 am to 3 am, seven days a week. Permission for both live and recorded music between 10 am and 3 am daily is also included.
The proposed opening hours of the ship are from 7:20 am to 3 am Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 3 am on the weekend. The application comes from Seacombe Ferry Terminal, presumably because this is where the ferries pick up and take passengers to the Liverpool Gerry Marsden Ferry Terminal at the Pier Head.
The arrival of the new ferry will mean two vessels are in operation once again. Following the retirement of the Royal Iris earlier this year, the Snowdrop has been the only ferry running – a situation that has proved problematic.
When Snowdrop develops faults, all services must be halted. This led to a five-day period in June when all trips were cancelled, causing serious disruption for commuters and tourists.
Crosby Fresh, who recently took over the Discovery Café at Seacombe Ferry Terminal, will also provide catering on the new Royal Daffodil when it sets sail.
Commenting on the licensing application closed on August 6, a decision is now due.
