Once left rusting and forgotten in Birkenhead Docks, former Mersey Ferry MV Royal Daffodil is reborn as a £3.5m restaurant and events space that will open in Liverpool in December. Tony McDonough reports
Former Mersey Ferry, MV Royal Daffodil will be launched as a new restaurant, bar and events space in Liverpool docklands in December.
Once left rusting and forgotten in Birkenhead Docks, the vessel has been transformed in a £3.5m project. Renamed just Daffodil, the vessel will be permanently moored at Canning Dock and will open to the public on Monday, December 9.
Originally named Overchurch, the boat served as a cross-river transport and cruising vessel following her maiden voyage in April 1962.
She was re-named Royal Daffodil in 1999 after an extensive refit as a party and dance cruising vessel. After a further decade of active service she was eventually decommissioned in 2012 due to a breakdown in one of her two engines.
For seven years until 2019 MV Royal Daffodil lay forgotten and unloved in Birkenhead’s East Float Dock. That is when entrepreneurs Liverpool entrepreneurs Joshua Boyd and Philip Olivier saw an opportunity to bring her back to life.
“We’re thrilled to announce that Daffodil will be ready to welcome guests in December,” said Joshua. “We’ve poured our hearts into restoring this iconic vessel and can’t wait to introduce it to the people of Liverpool and visitors from around the world.
“With its prime location next to Royal Albert Dock, Daffodil will become a must-visit destination in the city.”
Bookings are now open to dine on the Daffodil, the restaurant offering is located on the main deck of the boat and will serve modern British cuisine. It will open with a special festive menu.
Daffodil’s promenade bar area is situated on the upper deck and will be the ideal space to take in Liverpool’s stunning waterfront. It will offer cocktails, champagnes, wines and beers as well as the all-day menu featuring a selection of small plates, light bites, hot drinks and more.
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The team has also confirmed that the Wheelhouse mini-museum exhibit, dedicated to the history of the Mersey Ferries, is still in the pipeline, pending funding.
Philip added: “Daffodil is not just another venue; it’s an iconic piece of Merseyside’s history reborn for a modern audience. From the food and drinks to the events and atmosphere, we’re offering something truly unique on the waterfront.”