The Danny
The Danny
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The Daniel Adamson is the North West’s Art Deco steamship, rescued by the passion and skill of a volunteer force who operate the vessel today, and is affectionately known as The Danny. From its beginnings in 1903 as the Ralph Brocklebank canal tug to its transformation into a luxurious Art Deco steamship, The Danny has sailed through time with elegance and resilience. Offering a memorable and welcoming setting for both public cruises and private events. Our public cruises take in the stunning River Weaver in Cheshire, and both the Manchester Ship Canal and River Mersey. We’d love to welcome you aboard.
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5.0
104 reviews
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101
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Michael N
Cheadle Hulme, UK4,390 contributions
Aug 2021
The Danny has currently moved onto the River Weaver for various tours.
Went on Acton Bridge to Sutton Weaver trip recently. Started with a bus trip from a nearby business car park in Sutton Weaver to Acton Bridge where we boarded 'The Danny' a coal fired Art Deco interior steamship, one of a kind.
The weather was rather grim but the crew and volunteers made everyone welcome.
We then travelled about 7mls via the River Weaver and Weaver Navigation Canal down to Marsh Lock the access point to the Manchester Ship Canal.
This involved navigating Dutton Locks as river levels dropped ~10ft and through the Sutton Weaver swing bridge to our end point before returning to Sutton Weaver. Then a short bus trip back to our cars.
A limited commentary was provided during a journey time of 3.5hrs. Only light refreshments available on board (be aware the tea and coffee were awful and Aldi/Costco cakes very overpriced) so glad we had been advised to take a picnic.
Everyone is free to wander around most of the ship and ask questions which helped to make it a more enjoyable trip as it was quite wet most of the time.
Not a cheap trip at £37pp but all monies help to keep this unique ship running.
Went on Acton Bridge to Sutton Weaver trip recently. Started with a bus trip from a nearby business car park in Sutton Weaver to Acton Bridge where we boarded 'The Danny' a coal fired Art Deco interior steamship, one of a kind.
The weather was rather grim but the crew and volunteers made everyone welcome.
We then travelled about 7mls via the River Weaver and Weaver Navigation Canal down to Marsh Lock the access point to the Manchester Ship Canal.
This involved navigating Dutton Locks as river levels dropped ~10ft and through the Sutton Weaver swing bridge to our end point before returning to Sutton Weaver. Then a short bus trip back to our cars.
A limited commentary was provided during a journey time of 3.5hrs. Only light refreshments available on board (be aware the tea and coffee were awful and Aldi/Costco cakes very overpriced) so glad we had been advised to take a picnic.
Everyone is free to wander around most of the ship and ask questions which helped to make it a more enjoyable trip as it was quite wet most of the time.
Not a cheap trip at £37pp but all monies help to keep this unique ship running.
Written 1 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A Thomas
13 contributions
Oct 2021
Built in 1903 this former ship canal tug has been refurbished to its original standard both below in the engine6room and on deck and is a must see attracton, the cruise to acton bridge from sutton weaver was fantastic with lots of photol opportunities of life along the river.
The crew were a great bunch full of knowledge who entertained everyone with there joking it must be a delight working with the deck crew.
If you like steam this is your dream trip.
The crew were a great bunch full of knowledge who entertained everyone with there joking it must be a delight working with the deck crew.
If you like steam this is your dream trip.
Written 20 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maureen G
1 contribution
Aug 2021
A trip from Acton to Ellesmere Port - what a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The little ship was immaculate and the volunteer crew wonderful sources of information about the ship, it's engines and the route along which we journeyed. I would highly recommend a trip on this little piece of history - worth every penny of the fare.
Written 4 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ron I
Wilmslow, UK1 contribution
Jul 2022
We sailed from Anderton Boat Lift to Ellesmere Port, leaving at 11 am and arriving at 5 pm. We had a great day. The boat is a steam-powered ex-working tug which was completely renovated in 2015. The trip was fully booked but there was no overcrowding on the boat. The crew are all volunteers, their enthusiasm for the boat is matched by their friendliness and approachability.
The boat is equipped with a snack bar but bringing your own picnic is welcomed.
The first part of the trip is along the River Weaver and the Weaver Navigation, we then joined the Manchester Ship Canal. The Weaver part is rural with very pretty scenery.
On reaching Ellesmere Port we were coached back to Anderton Boat Lift car park. It took 6 hours out and 25 minutes back.
Some points I should make:
1. If you are parking at Anderton take some coins (£3 for full day), as we and nobody else could get the machines to accept credit cards.
2. Take some cash for use on The Danny. There is a work around to use credit cards but cash is easier.
3. Make sure you have some extra warm clothing with you. Despite the warm weather of mid-July which we were then experiencing, the wind chill factor took its effect and many passengers were feeling a bit cold.
Overall we had a great time and thoroughly recommend a trip on The Danny and thank all the crew who made our day so enjoyable.
The boat is equipped with a snack bar but bringing your own picnic is welcomed.
The first part of the trip is along the River Weaver and the Weaver Navigation, we then joined the Manchester Ship Canal. The Weaver part is rural with very pretty scenery.
On reaching Ellesmere Port we were coached back to Anderton Boat Lift car park. It took 6 hours out and 25 minutes back.
Some points I should make:
1. If you are parking at Anderton take some coins (£3 for full day), as we and nobody else could get the machines to accept credit cards.
2. Take some cash for use on The Danny. There is a work around to use credit cards but cash is easier.
3. Make sure you have some extra warm clothing with you. Despite the warm weather of mid-July which we were then experiencing, the wind chill factor took its effect and many passengers were feeling a bit cold.
Overall we had a great time and thoroughly recommend a trip on The Danny and thank all the crew who made our day so enjoyable.
Written 11 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul M
Manchester28 contributions
Aug 2021
A super trip - the restored vessel is beautiful, whether you're into art deco interiors or Victorian steam engineering there is plenty to admire.
The saloons and open decks are very comfortable, and the galley offers a great range of drinks and snacks.
The scenery along the Weaver is great with plenty to see - from Kingfishers to historic buildings and locks.
It's possible to go up onto the bridge and watch the Captain at work.
All the volunteer crew were extremely helpful and welcoming, and there was a great atmosphere on board.
Puffing along the river with a pint of ale and a bacon barm was wonderful!
I chose one of the longer cruises which also included part of the Manchester Ship Canal, and whilst less scenic it was very interesting to see some of the larger ships and the industries along the way.
The saloons and open decks are very comfortable, and the galley offers a great range of drinks and snacks.
The scenery along the Weaver is great with plenty to see - from Kingfishers to historic buildings and locks.
It's possible to go up onto the bridge and watch the Captain at work.
All the volunteer crew were extremely helpful and welcoming, and there was a great atmosphere on board.
Puffing along the river with a pint of ale and a bacon barm was wonderful!
I chose one of the longer cruises which also included part of the Manchester Ship Canal, and whilst less scenic it was very interesting to see some of the larger ships and the industries along the way.
Written 3 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ste Worrall
Northwich, UK5 contributions
Jul 2021
Our second trip onboard The Danny, this time we included the trip slightly longer trip that includes the short journey to Marsh Lock where the Danny turns around and heads once more along Weaver to Acton Bridge. The "extra" journey offers a chance to see the sprawling industrial ICI/Ineos complex from a totally different perspective, and of course the Marsh Lock itself where the River Weaver joins the Manchester Ship Canal. Having turned and heading to our destination, agian being on the River itself gives a totally different perspective, this time of The Frosdham Swing Bridge opening. The weather was glorious and the journey along onboard the steam powered Danny is superb. There is something for everyone, from the wildlife along the riverbank to my favourite part, chatting to the ever helpfull crew who know The Danny inside out , many actual ex Crew members when it was a working tug, and are more than willing to chat about the technical side of the Tug or its wonderful history. There are no negative or even slightly dissapointing comments I can make. Sailing down the river on a steam powered Tug, surrounded by the stunning countryside and sipping on an ice cold beer.
Written 25 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike M
1 contribution
May 2021 • Couples
Visited The Danny at her berth by Sutton Weaver swing bridge - we were passing and noticed they had a open day for the public.
The guides were very knowledgeable about the history of the tug originally built in 1903 at Birkenhead.
It was great to see the steam machinery gleaming and ready for use.
The saloon area which is “art decor” in 1930s style takes you back to a different era.
The crew are very enthausastic about the vessel and we look forward to a Gin Cruise later in the year once covid restrictions are lift.
The guides were very knowledgeable about the history of the tug originally built in 1903 at Birkenhead.
It was great to see the steam machinery gleaming and ready for use.
The saloon area which is “art decor” in 1930s style takes you back to a different era.
The crew are very enthausastic about the vessel and we look forward to a Gin Cruise later in the year once covid restrictions are lift.
Written 5 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Frazer
Southport, UK9 contributions
Jul 2021
We had a wonderful afternoon on "The Danny". The ship was in beautiful condition and the crew were friendly and helpful. One forgets how smooth and quiet steam powered ships are compared to modern diesel powered ones. The saloons are beautifully finished with wood panelling and comfortable furnishings. It is difficult to appreciate that they are reproductions as the original fittings were vandalised.
The cruise was relaxing and peaceful as well as very interesting. There was a commentary about points of interest but this was not at all intrusive. I would, and have, recommended a cruise on The Danny. Thank you to all involved
The cruise was relaxing and peaceful as well as very interesting. There was a commentary about points of interest but this was not at all intrusive. I would, and have, recommended a cruise on The Danny. Thank you to all involved
Written 3 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
spudd
hull england16 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
A surprise birthday gift, what a brilliant day, went from Ellesmere port to Liverpool and docked in Liverpool. TheDanny has been loving restored in the Deco style. The volunteer staff are all experts on the ship’s history and are pleasant and helpful, some enjoying a dance along the way.
We had a bottle of Proseco served at our table and a singer to entertain everyone. Most of the passengers were knowledgeable about the Mersey and chipped in with their stories. Dancing was encouraged
In all a memorable day I would recommend to anyone
We had a bottle of Proseco served at our table and a singer to entertain everyone. Most of the passengers were knowledgeable about the Mersey and chipped in with their stories. Dancing was encouraged
In all a memorable day I would recommend to anyone
Written 3 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
canals56
203 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
You do not have to be a Steam Engine or Canal Buff to enjoy a voyage on the Danny. I booked on to the trip from Acton Bridge to Ellesmere Port. Despite there only being nine passengers, we were outnumbered by crew, we were given a terrific day out. The crew were ever so enthusiastic and were happy to share their enthusiasm with us. Refreshments were all to hand including some really good bottles of Tarporley brewed IPA. It was a delight to see the Sutton Weaver Swing Bridge, open wide to let us through, much to the annoyance of motorists, held up on the A56. Strongly recommend Danny excursions - a day of steaming lazily through the Cheshire countryside.
Written 6 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is this wheelchair friendly?
Written 3 September 2018
Hi. It didn't look like it but it is worth getting in touch to see if they can get you on board. The boat itself has a good sized deck area and you would be able to access the bar but the majority of seating areas are accessed by steep steps/ladders so a tour of the boat would be very difficult. I have to use a wheelchair at times so was able to walk on and sit but not tour the boat.
Written 4 September 2018
Is this wheelchair friendly? and where is the departure/ return point?
Written 3 September 2018
The trip is either Acton bridge to Sutton weaver swing bridge or Sutton weaver swing bridge to Acton bridge. I’m sorry I don’t know if it’s wheelchair friendly, I would say no as most parts of the boat would not be accessible. I would contact the Danny & they will let you know
Written 3 September 2018
Trips to Acton Bridge from Anderson Boat Lift in August
Written 25 July 2018
Suggest you visit the website for all details of future cruises available
Written 26 July 2018
when on a visit to the Old Dock Experience which is a great tour with Yaz and Danny i was able to go on board the Danny and met John and some of the crew who bye the way are a happy bunch i was taken below deck to the engine room and shown around ,i enjoyed so much i have filled in a application form to join up as a crew member i hope i get in.
Written 19 July 2017
Hi, let us know if you haven't heard anything about becoming crew as we are keen for more crew members,
Written 31 July 2017
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