The “Danny`s“ Team Plan For Record Year On The River Weaver

The team at the charity managing the 1903 built steam ship are planning to break all records next year when the vessel returns to full steam on the River Weaver.

The public cruising schedule begins on 7^th May until 1^st October 2021. The ship, full name “Daniel Adamson”, can carry 100 passengers but will not now cruise in 2020 as officials monitor government guidelines and put the health and safety of their passengers and volunteer crews to the fore. Bookings in 2020 were already at an all time high and the majority of these customers look likely to request a cruise next year.

“Great Canal Journeys” TV boost

Bookings had already been boosted by the television appearance of the vessel with Timothy West and Prunella Scales on board in late 2019 in the “Great Canal Journeys” documentary programmes which enjoyed great popularity with the public. The use of the vessel in a programme about waterways in the North West was at the request of Timothy West who had followed the restoration of the “Danny” on social media.

Andrea Ward (Director) said “Our bookings were already increasing year on year and we were well prepared for the TV audience impact on our web-site and booking system because we had already spoken to other experienced heritage attractions. It is estimated that in line with the rest of the heritage market, the programme gave the “Danny” a boost in bookings of approximately 15 to 20%. It was great for our volunteers to be praised highly by Tim and see their great work nationally recognised on T.V.”

Cheshire`s stunning countryside

The cruises, varying in length from a short 90minutes cruise ideal for families to a full 5 hour waterway experience, will take in many historic architectural features in the stunning Weaver valley. The vessel will steam silently at a steady pace for all to enjoy the sights including the prolific wildlife.

The 100 plus volunteers  involved in running the vessel remain very active with maintenance work and bringing the vessel into pristine condition and they all want to get back cruising when customers come aboard and their roles change and they become stewards, guides and help out with catering jobs.

Volunteer inspired and led, keeping this £5 million National Heritage Fund supported project afloat needs customers whilst  the marketing team realising that there are so many customers disappointed with the cancellation of the 2020 programme looking forward to her return have now begun to take bookings.

Additional themed cruises

In 2019 gin tasting cruises were introduced in partnership with the Liverpool Gin Company and these proved to be extremely popular some selling out in hours. In the knowledge that the public like a tipple of quality alcoholic drinks, in 2021 Rum and Vodka cruises will be introduced giving customers the opportunity of appreciating the national drinks of Russia and the Caribbean.

Andrea Ward (Director) said “ Our volunteers work incredibly hard all year whether it be painting the ship, manning the decks or giving guided tours for visitors when we are berthed and they relish the days when customers come on board and with a full head of steam  they cast off and head out into the river”

Details of the “Danny” including her unique history, working life, restoration, volunteering opportunities and how to book can be found on www.thedanny.co.uk or by emailing enquiries @danieladamson.co.uk The vessel is available for private hire.