1. Liverpool: 50-Minute Mersey River Cruise
From the Beatles performing on the Riverboat Shuffle cruises in the early 1960s to tales of smuggling, Mersey Ferries carry a cargo of memories. On this 50-minute cruise, you’ll sit back and enjoy the fascinating commentary and absorb the heritage. There is simply no better way to enjoy Liverpool’s iconic waterfront than from the deck of a legendary Mersey Ferry. Learn about the history of the Mersey Ferries and the Beatles, who performed 4 times on board the Royal Iris. The performances spanned 3 distinct periods in the development of the renowned group. The first ferry performance was on a cruise in August 1961, when the Beatles were still wearing leather. In August of the following year, they performed again, changing their image to a more clean-cut look, sporting suits, and ties. Their final ferry show was on 28 September 1962, featuring Ringo on drums. By this time they had recorded their first single, Love Me Do, at Abbey Road Studios. A week after the show, Love Me Do was released. While enjoying the surroundings you can listen to the commentary in English pointing out the sights along the river. Information sheets in other languages are provided. The tour departs on the hour from Liverpool Pier Head.