Why we've reduced our 2026 Cruise Programme
Published: 30th Jan
Historic Steam Tug Daniel Adamson Launches 2026 Sailing Programme
The 1903-built steam tug-tender Daniel Adamson, affectionately known as the “Danny”, is preparing for her 2026 public sailing season, with her cruise programme launching today and tickets now on sale!
Following challenging operating conditions and a decline in passenger numbers since her most successful season in 2019, largely due to the impact of COVID-19, rising costs, external infrastructure challenges, and ongoing regulatory and maintenance requirements, a full operational review has been undertaken to ensure the Danny can continue to sail, deliver her extensive education and social programmes, and secure a sustainable future.
“We have worked hard to review every element of our operation, particularly current and future costs against passenger revenue, static hire income, and donations from our membership and JustGiving campaign,” said Andy King, the Society’s newly appointed Chair. “We also engaged closely with external stakeholders, many of them long-term supporters, and we have been extremely encouraged by their response. As part of this review, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to operate fewer trips over fewer days. Loadings have regularly been below 50%, and we need to increase occupancy while reducing operating costs before we can return to pre-COVID levels. We have successfully renegotiated reduced insurance premiums based on a shorter operating window, and other partners have been incredibly supportive in helping us lower costs.
Maintaining the Danny to the highest standard and ensuring compliance with modern regulations remains both complex and costly. The Society lost its Liverpool workshop facilities last year after nearly 18 years, and the vessel was subsequently stranded on the River Weaver over winter following the emergency closure of Marsh Lock.
“Despite these setbacks, we have carried out routine maintenance and the ten-year boiler examinations using a temporary container workshop,” Andy King added. “Our volunteers have performed absolute miracles under very difficult conditions.”
2026 will be a pivotal year for the Danny, which celebrates her 123rd anniversary in August. While a refreshed Board of Trustees and wider team actively pursue new funding streams, partnerships, and operational opportunities, ticket sales will be crucial to the vessel’s future.
“We really do need to increase occupancy and ticket uptake across our wide range of cruises this season,” said Andy King.
This year we will concentrate our sailings predominantly on the glorious and ever popular River Weaver where the Danny has become the perfect partner to the Weaver's stunning scenery and fascinating history while raising awareness of attractions and places of interest in and around the Rivers diverse catchment.
A highlight of the 2026 programme will be the “Fish, Chips & Salt” cruise in June — a nine-hour sail from the Anderton Boat Lift to Canning Dock, Liverpool. The cruise includes complimentary fish and chips, with the “salt” referencing the historic barge runs carrying locally produced bagged salt from Anderton to Liverpool.
Tickets are now available to book at: https://www.thedanny.co.uk/events
Just Giving Campaign: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/thedanny
PayPal Donations: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/AJMGB2V9X3YWY
