Boat Tours in Manchester

Boat tours in Manchester are a unique way to discover the industrial heartland of this northern powerhouse. Admire the architecture of the Salford Quays and learn about Manchester’s heritage through onboard commentary.

By day, enjoy a leisurely sightseeing cruise along the historic Manchester Ship Canal and the River Irwell. As night falls, the City of Light shines brightly, with live music on board to get those feet tapping.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating sightseeing tours in Manchester.

What are the most popular boat tours in Manchester?

There are several different Manchester boat excursions to choose from, with options for both day cruises and evening jaunts. They offer completely different experiences, so if you have time, why not do both?

Daytime sightseeing boat trip

The most popular Manchester boat tours are the daytime sightseeing cruises. They take you along the famous Manchester Ship Canal and the Irwell River, showing off major landmarks on the way.

Guided commentary is provided throughout the trip to help you make sense of what you’re seeing.

Key sights include the historic Stephenson’s Railway Bridge, the Docklands area and the Imperial War Museum. You’ll also see the iconic Old Trafford Stadium, which is home to the Manchester United football team.

The final highlight is glitzy Media City, where the BBC and the much-loved “Coronation Street” TV series are based.

Evening musical boat cruise

There are a couple of evening cruises available, both offering live musical acts to get you in the mood. The Swing and Rat Pack boat tour features tribute bands performing hits from stars like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Meanwhile, the Elvis trip is all about the King of Rock and Roll himself.

The illuminated city skyline accompanies the entertainment, with Media City and Old Trafford stealing the show. Snacks and a welcome drink are offered to sweeten the deal.

Boat transfer to Old Trafford

Are you visiting the city on match day but don’t fancy tackling the infamous traffic? Then book a boat transfer and avoid all the parking and queueing hassles.

There is an onboard bar so you can enjoy a beer and convivial chat with fellow fans as you journey in style to the game.

You’ll leave central Manchester an hour before the match starts, arriving at Old Trafford just 20 minutes later. The stadium is a 5-minute walk from the disembarkation point. The return transfer departs around 20 minutes after the final whistle.

Private sailing trip

For something entirely different, charter a sailing boat and discover Manchester at a more leisurely pace. You can either have a captain on board or go it alone if you’re a seasoned sailor.

Manchester sailing trip itineraries are entirely customizable, according to your interests.

How much do boat tours in Manchester cost?

Daytime sightseeing boat tours in Manchester cost around £10 per passenger. The trips last an hour with guided commentary provided. Food and drinks are not available so take your own if you think you’ll need them.

The return boat transfer to Old Trafford is only available on match days. Tickets are priced at £20 for the transport only. Seating is available both inside and out, depending on the weather.

Evening Manchester boat cruises are £40 per participant, with a welcome drink and light snacks included in the ticket price. Additional drinks can be purchased onboard to help get the party started.

For a private sailing charter in Manchester, expect to pay £160 per person for a full day out.

Which places are seen?

Manchester Ship Canal

As you pass through the locks of the Manchester Ship Canal, you’ll marvel at this Victorian feat of engineering. The canal runs for 58 kilometers through England’s northwest, connecting Manchester to the Irish Sea.

It was built to transport goods to Liverpool, opening up the region to trade and commerce.

Along the waterway, you’ll spot the Imperial War Museum and the old Pomona Docks. History is everywhere you turn here in central Manchester.

Salford Quays

This regenerated waterfront area is where you’ll find Manchester’s top entertainment spots, along with restaurants and hotels. You can take in a show at the Lowry Arts Centre, shop at the outlet village, and visit several free museums.

Ordsall Hall is also worth a look – this Tudor manor house boasts striking landscaped gardens and period rooms.

Previously the site of the old Manchester Docklands, today Salford Quays is a great place to base yourself for a weekend break. Boat tours are easily accessed from here too.

Media City

One of the most dazzling views you’ll enjoy on boat trips in Manchester is Media City. This is the broadcasting hub of the north – both the BBC and ITV’s “Coronation Street” productions are based here.

The modern development looks particularly splendid at night during a boat cruise when all the buildings are lit up. Media City’s progressive architecture makes for great photos from your river vantage point.

Stephenson’s Railway Bridge

Built in 1830 for the world’s first passenger railway, this historic bridge is a bit of a city icon. The line ran between Manchester and Liverpool and used steam locomotives to transport people between the cities.

It was the brainchild of George Stephenson, who was a pioneer of railway engineering.

Today the stone structure is known as the River Irwell Railway Bridge, and it’s now a Grade I listed building.

How long does a boat trip last?

Manchester sightseeing cruises usually last an hour, taking in the main city center landmarks. The evening Rat Pack and Elvis river trips are 2.5 hours long, giving you plenty of time to see the sights and enjoy the music.

The return boat transfer to Old Trafford on match days is just 20 minutes each way. Meanwhile, private sailing trips last a whole day to make the most of your charter experience.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Most daytime boat tours in Manchester depart from the Ralli Quay, across the river from the People’s History Museum in the west of the city. It’s just a short walk from Salford Central Rail Station.

Parking is available nearby in the NCP New Bailey Car Park for those arriving by road. Charges apply.

The evening cruises start beside the Millennium Footbridge by the Lowry Theatre. You can get there by bus – the nearest stop is Media City at the Old Manchester Docks.

The nearest parking is at Quayside Media City Car Park on The Quays road – this is a 5-minute walk away.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Manchester?

You can enjoy a boat excursion in Manchester at all times of the year although the weather is better during summer. Come in spring or fall for a less crowded experience.

It gets very cold in winter so wrap up warm if you plan on taking a Manchester boat cruise between November and March.

Choose an evening tour if you want some live music and dancing with your views. This is the best way to see Old Trafford and Media City illuminated at night.

Travel tips

• There are lots of boat tours in Manchester to choose from – search online to find the cheapest deals for your chosen date.
• Taking a cruise through Manchester city center is a great way to get your bearings. Try and plan a trip for the first day of your stay.
• Boat trips only take an hour or two, so why not combine one with another experience, like a walking excursion or a food tour?
• Food and drinks are not provided on the day cruises, so take some snacks to keep your energy levels topped up.