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Manchester Cruises & boat tours

Our most recommended Manchester Cruises & boat tours

Manchester: City Center Canal Cruise

1. Manchester: City Center Canal Cruise

See Manchester from another perspective on a scenic canal cruise. Make your way along the Manchester Ship Canal and River Irwell, admiring some of the city's key sights including Manchester United's home ground and the historic Stephenson's Railway Bridge. Board the cruise in central Manchester and embark on a trip to the heart of Manchester's old docklands and 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 railway bridge from 1830. Pass by the first of the 120-meter-long locks of the Manchester Ship Canal, admiring the impressive Imperial War Museum and old Pomona Docks before heading into the heart of Manchester along the River Irwell. During the cruise, listen to commentary that describes the history of the Manchester Ship Canal. Learn about the industries that made the city one of the powerhouses of Europe in the 19th century and hear about the exciting future that's currently being built.

Manchester: Salford Quays River Cruise

2. Manchester: Salford Quays River Cruise

Discover a different side of Manchester on a cruise along the city's historic waterway. Departing from the former docks at Salford Quays, sail past the striking architecture of the modern developments now dominating the area. Enjoy the views of the city from the comfort of the cabin or from the back deck. Enjoy live commentary onboard from the skipper who describes many of the sights along the trip as well as the history of the waterway which helped to transform Manchester into the industrial powerhouse of Europe.

Manchester: Elvis-on-the-River Cruise

3. Manchester: Elvis-on-the-River Cruise

Sit back and enjoy a night of Elvis aboard an exclusive cruise. On this 2.5-hour city cruise, you'll see the sights of the city from the "Theatre of Dreams" of Old Trafford, to the lights of the Media City. You will be welcomed with a glass of Prosecco as you board the Princess Katherine, with lights snacks and canapes accompanying your cruise. As you admire the views of the city's skyline from the old Pomona Docks, an on-board Elvis Presley tribute artist will perform the best of Elvis, which will have you dancing in the aisles as the city slides by. At the conclusion of your rockin' cruise, you will return back to your point of origin.

Manchester: Swing and Rat Pack River Cruise

4. Manchester: Swing and Rat Pack River Cruise

Join the Princess Katherine for a cruise with a difference and experience an amazing way to enjoy Manchester. A night of amazing tunes will welcome you from your favorite Rat Pack and swing artists, as well as a few classic favorites to keep the boat rocking, courtesy of Russell Shaun. The Princess Katherine provides an intimate atmosphere that will have you dancing in the aisles as the city slides by. Enjoy the lights of the city as the Princess Katherine cruises between the stunning architecture of Salford Quays towards the heart of Manchester. From Old Trafford to the lights of Media City, these are surely some of the best views that Manchester has to offer. As your tour concludes, you'll cruise back to your tour starting location to continue your evening.

Frequently asked questions about Manchester

What top attractions are a must-see in Manchester?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Manchester?

The best day trips and excursions from Manchester are:

Windermere

What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Manchester?

Other Sightseeing Options in Manchester

Want to discover all there is to do in Manchester? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Manchester

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 191 reviews

Enjoyable morning with my daughter. Snacks and an assortment of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks available. Clean toilets. Clear and informative audio throughout. Excellent value for money. My second time enjoying this activity and will definitely be returning.

its Family time in new environment,exciting trip.its de-stressing. Its small getaway with a value of holiday trip giving the detachement and riddance of routine ,boring things we were in in mondain daily life . excellent experience.

Great experience well worth the price. Staff was friendly and welcoming on board. Drink were reasonable price.

Boat came on time. Cruise time was perfect. Tour guide was very informative.

I love everything there..a wonderful experience, people are very friendly