Watch: We get an exclusive look at The Royal Daffodil transformation

A breath-taking transformation of a Mersey legend has begun. The Royal Daffodil is returning to Liverpool with a brand new look. 

Decommissioned in 2013, Mersey Ferry, The Royal Daffodil has narrowly escaped the breakers yard thanks to exciting and ambitious plans from Liverpool City Sights. Chief Exec and former Brookside star, Phil Olivier is the proud new owner of a piece of Merseyside history.

After 50 years in service on the Mersey, the three story high Royal Daffodil has embarked on a new journey which will see her rejuvenated as a floating leisure attraction and venue, and brought across to Liverpool. Complete with stunning new look, on board bar & restaurant, The Royal Daffodil will be a permanent fixture at Canning Dock. But that’s not all.

Watch above as our Jay gets an exclusive first look on day 1 of the Royal Daffodil renovation. 

MORE: Watch as we have a go sailing one of the famous Mersey Ferries

Once completed, the boat will also offer venue space for picture perfect weddings and corporate events. One of the most exciting developments onboard will be the proposed ‘boatique’ accommodation planned for the lower deck. Can you imagine enjoying dinner onboard or on the dockside, a few glasses of bubbly and then retiring for the night below deck? Set to become part of the picture postcard of the city and its waterfront, The Royal Daffodil is sure to be a hit with locals and visitors alike.

More: River Festival Liverpool returns to the waterfront with all this on offer. 

At the helm of the hugely popular Liverpool City Sights bus tours, former actor Phil has become a key player in the local tourism industry, with his finger on the pulse of exactly what visitors want when exploring our city.

Respectful of The Royal Daffodil history on the Mersey, Phil is keen to restore some of the original features from the boat, he said: “In the bridge of The Royal Daffodil we’ll be giving a nod to the history of Mersey Ferries and its heritage. It’s part of local history. It’s been going since the 800’s when monks first used a ferry passing to cross the water.”

The renovation work is underway and Phil is hoping to have The Royal Daffodil in place in Canning Dock this summer. We can’t wait to see this grand of girl of the Mersey back on the water where she belongs, one again playing an integral part in life in Liverpool.

To find out more about Mersey Ferry history head to Museum of Liverpool. You can follow the Royal Daffodil journey by checking out the official Liverpool City Sights Facebook page here. Good luck to Phil and the team, keep it locked to @TheGuideLpool for updates.