City River Tour – Explore Manchester from the Water
Boxing Day Special — Complimentary Mulled Wine & Mince Pie
Boxing Day (26 December) only — receive one complimentary mulled wine (or a non-alcoholic alternative) and a mince pie with every paying adult ticket for the City River Tour.*
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.
🌟 What You’ll See
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
🧭 Why Choose the City River Tour?
- Non-Stop Round trip from Salford Quays – No need to plan your return
- Comfortable, purpose-built sightseeing boat – Princess Katherine or Isabella
- Fully stocked bar – Choose a warming tea or coffee, or toast the views with a cold beer or G&T
🎟️ Booking Your Cruise
Tickets are available:
- On board (subject to availability)
- Or, guarantee your place now by clicking Book Now
📍 Make a Day of It at Salford Quays
Before or after your tour, explore one of Manchester’s top destinations. Visit the Imperial War Museum North, catch a show at The Lowry Arts Theatre, stroll through the Lowry Outlet, or relax with a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants along the waterfront.
Set sail on Manchester’s most scenic sightseeing cruise — the perfect mix of history, views, and relaxation. Book your City River Tour today!
Boxing Day Offer — Terms & Conditions
*Offer valid for City River Tour departures on Boxing Day (26 December) only. Applies to tickets purchased directly through manchesterrivercruises.com or bought onboard and is redeemed onboard. Limit of one complimentary mulled wine & mince pie per paid adult ticket. Alcoholic mulled wine will only be served to guests aged 18+; a non-alcoholic alternative is available on request. Offer is subject to availability and while stocks last, cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions, and Manchester River Cruises reserves the right to amend or withdraw the offer without prior notice. Tickets purchased via third-party sellers are not eligible
Amenities
Bar on Board
Groups allowed
Pets allowed
Toilets
Accessibility
The Princess Katherine & Isabell do not have disabled access. There is one step up and four steps down in order to board the vessel.
Facilities
Both Princess Katherine & Isabella are fully heated, and equipped with an onboard licenced bar and two toilets.
Seating
Isabella has booth seating inside and limited seats on the aft deck. The Princess Katherine has inside booth seating for up to six to a table, and outside seating on the top deck. Seating is on a first come first served basis we do not allocate seats.
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the trip.
Parking
The closest parking is at the Quayside Shopping Centre - Parking
Finding us
The closest tram stop is at Media City, the closest parking is at the Quayside Shopping centre. The boarding point can be found under the Millennium Footbridge just by the Lowry Theatre. Some details can be found here
