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.
Amenities
Bar on Board
Groups allowed
Toilets
Accessibility
The vessel does not have disabled access. There is one step up and four steps down in order to board the vessel.
Facilities
The vessel is fully heated, and equipped with an onboard licensed bar and two toilets.
Seating
The vessel has seating for four to six to a table, we allocate seats based on your booking, please let us know by email if you wish to sit with another group. You may be required to share a table with another group.
Parking
The nearest parking is at the Lowry Outlet Mall – click here
Boarding
The vessel departs from just outside the Lowry Theatre at Salford Quays.
Cancellation
You will receive a full refund if you cancel five days in advance of your trip.
Departure
The vessel departs promptly at the time on your ticket, please ensure you have plenty of time to park and reach the boarding point. The vessel is unable to wait for latecomers and we are unable to return to the dock once we have departed. We are unable to provide refunds or alternate slots for missed trips.
Adverse Weather
Our Santa Experience is held on one of our largest boats, and in the event of high river levels, there is a chance the boat will not be able to sail. If this happens, the Santa Experience will still take place and it'll still be a memorable and enjoyable time. If your cruise does not sail, you will receive a complimentary voucher for a City River Tour to use in the future.
