Add dates

Manchester Sightseeing cruises

Our most recommended Manchester Sightseeing cruises

Manchester: Canal & River Cruise

1. Manchester: Canal & River Cruise

See Manchester from another perspective on a scenic canal cruise. Make your way along the Manchester Ship Canal and River Irwell, admiring some of the city's key sights including Manchester United's home ground and the historic Stephenson's Railway Bridge. Board the cruise in central Manchester and embark on a trip to the heart of Manchester's old docklands and the center of the city. See sights from the modern Media City, now home to the BBC and the new home of ITV's Coronation Street, to the imposing Old Trafford football stadium and George Stephenson’s railway bridge from 1830. Pass by the first of the 120-meter-long locks of the Manchester Ship Canal, admiring the impressive Imperial War Museum and old Pomona Docks before heading into the heart of Manchester along the River Irwell. During the cruise, listen to commentary that describes the history of the Manchester Ship Canal. Learn about the industries that made the city one of the powerhouses of Europe in the 19th century and hear about the exciting future that's currently being built.

Manchester: Salford Quays River Cruise

2. Manchester: Salford Quays River Cruise

Discover a different side of Manchester on a cruise along the city's historic waterway. Departing from the former docks at Salford Quays, sail past the striking architecture of the modern developments now dominating the area. Enjoy the views of the city from the comfort of the cabin or from the back deck. Enjoy live commentary onboard from the skipper who describes many of the sights along the trip as well as the history of the waterway which helped to transform Manchester into the industrial powerhouse of Europe.

Manchester: Old Trafford Match Day River Cruise

3. Manchester: Old Trafford Match Day River Cruise

Enjoy matchday travel for Manchester United games at Old Trafford. This transfer service offers a pick-up from Manchester city center by the popular Spinningfields development, dropping fans off by the stadium.  Along the way, you will be able to gain a unique view of the city as you pass through the impressive Ordsall Chord and the newly refurbished Stephenson's Bridge on your journey along the River Irwell and Manchester Ship Canal.  Have an onboard bar so you can enjoy a drink with fellow match goers and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere you'd find in any pub. Return promptly 20 minutes after the final whistle.

3 activities found
Sort by:

Frequently asked questions about Manchester

What top attractions are a must-see in Manchester?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Manchester?

The best day trips and excursions from Manchester are:

Windermere

What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Manchester?

Other Sightseeing Options in Manchester

Want to discover all there is to do in Manchester? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Manchester

We where very lucky to find this and to be fair the experience seemed too good to be true and such good value ( that until the cruise turned up we wondered is this for real - yes it is ) The cruise boat was clean and airy. We where lucky as he heavens opened as we boarded but this only added to the experience and intimate coziness of the cruise. It’s November so not packed but that makes it feel like a hidden gem and for us felt very romantic. Drinks available onboard very reasonable and there is no commercialism which is refreshing and keeps it real The staff are so friendly and it was just an enjoyable 45 mins. The guide playing is not in your face but continuous and even locals would learn points of interest We loved it and would certainly recommend it - even finding it (without Google cheating) was fun! No big boards or sales men just a tiny sign pointing you. We found a good pub The Dockyard across the way as we waited for the boat to dock A great highlight to our day

This was a very enjoyable little river cruise. The crew were really cheery people and made the trip worthwhile. Would definitely recommend this to anyone! It was raining in the way back unfortunately but still a worthwhile little trip down the Manchester ship canal!

its Family time in new environment,exciting trip.its de-stressing. Its small getaway with a value of holiday trip giving the detachement and riddance of routine ,boring things we were in in mondain daily life . excellent experience.

Great experience well worth the price. Staff was friendly and welcoming on board. Drink were reasonable price.

Boat came on time. Cruise time was perfect. Tour guide was very informative.