Step aboard this winter for a festive cruise like no other – where twinkling lights meet waterfront wonder, and Father Christmas himself swaps his sleigh for a spot on deck!
Join us at Salford Quays for a heart-warming Santa Cruise along the historic Manchester Ship Canal. As we drift past the city’s wintry skyline, little ones will be welcomed into a world of magic, music, and merriment – with Santa Claus and his jolly elves spreading cheer along the way.
🛳️ What’s Included:
A one-hour cruise on the Manchester Ship Canal departing from Salford Quays
A festive meet-and-greet with Father Christmas in his floating grotto
A gift for every child from Santa himself
Cookie and juice for children
Mince pie and mulled wine for grown-ups (because adults deserve a treat too!)
Fun and festive entertainment led by Chief Elf Tilly and the North Pole crew
🎁 Perfect for children aged 2–10 years, but we won’t tell if the big kids join in too! 👪 Adult participation is encouraged
Whether you're starting a new family tradition or simply adding some sparkle to the season, the Father Christmas Cruise is a magical moment waiting to happen.
Booking Information
We operate two vessels — Isabella and Princess Katherine — throughout the day.
To begin your booking, please select your preferred vessel and then choose the number of tickets you need. Once selected, you’ll see the available sailing times for your group.
If your preferred date or time isn’t available, simply switch to the other vessel to check for additional availability.
Amenities
Bar on Board
Groups allowed
Toilets
What’s included
An hour-long trip departing from Salford Quays with Father Christmas and his elves.
Mulled wine & mince pies for adults
Cookie and juice drink for children
Chance to meet Santa Claus and have a gift from his grotto
The activities and gifts are aimed at 2 – 10 years but big kids are welcome.
Adult participation is required – this is a Chief Elf Tilly rule.
Please not allergens just as egg, milk, and gluten may be present in the cookies, and we are unfortunately unable to offer an alternative.
Isabella - Please queue by the GREEN Flag
Princess Katherine - Please queue by the RED Flag
Departure
Return
10:00
11:00
11:30
12:30
13:00
14:00
16:30
17:30
18:00
19:00
Please ensure you arrive in plenty of time to make your departure
Sensory Adapted Tour
Saturday 29th 10:00
Friday 19th December 10:00
Tuesday 22nd December 10:00
Accessibility
Please note that the vessel does not have disabled access. Boarding requires one step up and four steps down to reach the main deck.
Facilities
The vessel is fully heated and features a licensed onboard bar and two toilets for your comfort.
Seating
Seating is arranged at tables for four to six guests. We allocate your seats based on your ticket, ensuring your group is seated together wherever possible.
If you’d like to sit with another party, please include this request when asked at checkout. Please note that you may be seated with another group depending on availability.
Please queue by the GREEN flag for Isabella or the RED flag for Princess Katherine. The name of your vessel will be shown on your booking confirmation.
Departure & Timeliness
The vessel departs promptly at the time stated on your ticket. Please allow sufficient time to park and reach the boarding area.
Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals or return to the dock once underway, and refunds or alternate sailings cannot be offered for missed departures.
Cancellations
Bookings cancelled five days or more in advance will receive a full refund.
Adverse Weather
Our Santa Experience takes place aboard one of our largest, fully heated vessels. In the event of high river levels, the boat may be unable to sail.
If this occurs, the Santa Experience will still take place onboard at the dock, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit. Guests will also receive a complimentary City River Tour voucher to enjoy another time.
Sensory Adapted Tour
Step aboard for a magical Christmas adventure — at a gentler pace. Our Sensory Adapted River Cruise with Santa offers all the festive sparkle of our traditional cruise, but in a calmer, more relaxed setting designed for guests who prefer a softer celebration.
With a slower pace, reduced background sounds, softer lighting, and fewer guests on board, this experience ensures a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy the magic of Christmas on the water.
Dogs
Unfortunately we don't allow dogs on our Kids Takeover Cruises.
Route Map
Need help?
If you need help with bookings you can either call or email us. You may find the information you need on our Help Page.
A family built business with a heritage of working the waterways of Manchester stretching back over a hundred years, our local knowledge will help you make the most of any tour.
