Get Set for the Return of Fast Craft Manannan!

Fast craft Manannan will resume her regular services on Friday 27th March, which means daily sailings into the centre of Liverpool will soon be back.

You can step on the ferry in Douglas and be in the heart of the historic city in less than three hours, arriving just minutes away from iconic monuments and world-famous attractions. Whether you’re travelling with friends, your other half, as a family or solo, there is so much to see, do, taste, experience and explore in Liverpool. It’s no wonder so many Islanders hop on board for a city break each year.

Steam Packet Company vessel Manannan berthing in Liverpool
Manannan in Liverpool

To help you plan your getaway in this exciting city, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite activities to help you pack more into your trip.

The Beatles Story

The exhibition purely devoted to the lives of the world-famous Beatles is a must for any music fan. Located at the Royal Albert Dock, visitors are taken on an immersive journey through the lives, times and music of the iconic Liverpudlian musicians. 

Afterwards, you can soak up the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the famous Docks. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, Carpathia Champagne Bar & Restaurant is a firm favourite for lovers of fine food and just a short walk away. You can wine, dine and enjoy breathtaking views of the city in its rooftop bar.

Stunning views from Royal Albert Dock on a sunny day
Royal Albert Dock. Photo credit: Visit Liverpool

Behind-the-scenes tour of Anfield Stadium

Whether you’re a football fanatic or just interested in the history behind it, a visit to the home of Liverpool Football Club is a must when you’re in the city. Go behind the scenes and touch the famous ‘This is Anfield’ sign, take in the hallowed turf from Jurgen Klopp’s perspective, gaze at the incredible silverware and check out where the players prepare for games in the home and away team dressing rooms.

Anfield Football Stadium, inside view, no spectators
Anfield Football stadium.. Photo credit: Visit Britain/Rod Edwards

Liverpool Cathedral

Don’t miss out on a visit to Liverpool Cathedral, the largest in Britain. The aesthetically-pleasing stain glass windows, impressive architectural design and thought-provoking displays are sure to take your breath away. Head to the Tower to experience 360 degree panoramic views of the city and hear the fascinating story of how the Cathedral was built.

Image from inside Liverpool Cathedral looking down on main area


Liverpool Cathedral. Photo credit: Visit Liverpool

Knowsley Safari Park

How about a wild day out at Knowsley Safari? You can get up close and personal with more than 750 animals on the impressive five-mile wild Safari Drive, and the Foot Safari allows you to explore even more exciting animal enclosures on foot. Knowsley Safari is fun for the whole family and just a short journey in a car, bus or train from the city centre.

Museum of Liverpool

The Museum of Liverpool’s eye-catching, contemporary building is impressive in itself and there is plenty more sights to take in when you get inside. Located on the iconic waterfront, just minutes away from the ferry port, it’s an ideal activity before you begin your journey back to Douglas.

With more than 6,000 objects celebrating the city’s fascinating heritage on display, from the stage where John Lennon and Paul McCartney first met to a life-sized Liver bird – it’s a great opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history.

Couple holding hands walking past the Museum of Liverpool
Photo Credit: Visit Britain/Rod Edwards

Mersey Tunnel Tours

Did you know the famous Queensway Mersey Tunnels have been featured in a number of blockbuster movies? Head underground to discover the depths of the tunnels beneath the city, learn about their construction, witness the original control room in operation, visit an emergency escape refuge and see the giant ventilation fans in action. The tour costs £6 and takes 2-3 hours, perfect for a rainy day!

Cavern Club

A visit to the world-famous Cavern Club is an absolute must when in the city. Known as the heart of Liverpool’s legendary music scene, it’s where The Beatles performed their first gig together in 1961. You can enjoy a cold drink, soak up the chilled atmosphere and listen to live music from acoustic performers and cover bands on the iconic stage.

Couple enjoying a drink at the Cavern Club, Liverpool
Photo Credit: Visit Britain/Rod Edwards

Shop till you drop

If you love to shop, you’ll fit in well in Liverpool. With high street and designer stores, beauty boutiques, independent stores and traditional markets – shoppers are spoilt for choice.

Liverpool ONE is just a short walk from where Manannan berths and offers a truly diverse shopping experience, with plenty of tasty spots to stop and refuel. With more than 170 award-winning eateries, bars and stores, including the only Beauty Bazaar, Harvey Nichols in the country – it’s a good job there are no luggage fees to worry about when travelling by ferry.

Busy shopping day at Liverpool ONE
Liverpool One. Photo Credit: Visit Liverpool

There is convenient access to motorways linking to other UK destinations too, in addition to a great network of public transport links from Liverpool. Plus, when you bring your car on the ferry it is easy to experience multiple cities or destinations in one break, helping you to pack more into your time away.

The return of fast craft Manannan also means that the Belfast and Dublin services will soon commence.

The Emerald Isle

Regular sailings are scheduled to Ireland between 28th March and 8th September on Manannan, so you can hop on the ferry in Douglas and sail away for an adventure to Belfast or Dublin.

Bring the car and you could hit the road for a fun-filled road trip, soaking up the stunning sights, sounds and smells of the Emerald Isle.

If you’re in need of some inspiration, check out our blog which showcases some of the great activities you can pack into a trip to Dublin.

Ha'penny Bridge, Dublin. Couple watching the views against pink sky.
Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin. Photo credit: Brian Morrison/Tourism Ireland

What are you waiting for? Book your next adventure on fast craft Manannan today at www.steam-packet.com

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