Liverpool woman set to become first female captain of Mersey Ferry

A local woman is on course to make local maritime history by becoming the first female captain of the iconic Mersey Ferry.

Apprentice Ellie Vondy, 30, from Anfield, is training to take the helm of the world-famous Mersey Ferry, ushering in a new chapter to a tradition dating back more than 800 years.

A qualified diver and marine biologist, Ellie began a three-year marine apprenticeship last year and now works onboard the vessel while studying part-time at Fleetwood Marine College.

When qualified, she will serve as Officer of the Watch (Near Coastal), working as First Mate, before completing a further year’s training to gain her captain’s licence.

Ellie was recruited in September 2025 and is working towards the top job alongside fellow marine apprentices Chris Oulton and Leah Rogers.

Steve Rotheram Mayor of Liverpool City Region said:

“The Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey is an icon of our region, and Ellie’s story shows how we’re breaking down barriers that for centuries felt unmovable.

“It will be an incredibly proud moment for everyone associated with the ferries when the first female captain takes the helm, after 800 years in operation.

“This is why backing apprenticeships and investing in people is so important – we’re opening doors not just for people starting out in their career, but for the trailblazers of the future.”

Ellie said:

“Working on something so iconic has been amazing – I didn’t know what to expect. It is like joining a little family as there are people who have been working here for years.

“When I was younger, I spent days out with family by the sea, places like New Brighton and West Kirby. After I left school, I studied marine biology and project management, so I’ve learned a lot about the marine environment and spent a lot of time out on boats doing research projects, and I basically realized that I just enjoyed being out on the water more than sitting at a computer all day doing research. When I saw this job come up, I just applied for it.

“It’s so exciting to think I could be the first woman to captain the Mersey Ferry. I’m a Liverpool girl and the ferry is part of the city’s heartbeat so if I am I just hope I do women justice.”

By investing in apprenticeships that allow staff to learn new skills whilst staying in their current roles, Mersey Ferries is building future talent from within, strengthening the brand and supporting long term succession planning.

Mersey Ferries is set to unveil the first new vessel in 60 years when the new £26m Royal Daffodil comes into service later this year.

The new ferry is designed to offer a world-class experience to both everyday passengers and eventgoers thanks to large, open plan decks and smaller, more intimate event spaces for corporate functions and private parties, alongside new regular seasonal cruises.

Find out more on the Mersey Ferries website.

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