A SERIES of summer evening cruises have been launched by Mersey Ferries to mark ten years since Liverpool was awarded European Capital of Culture.

With a year-long programme of events being planned throughout Merseyside, thousands of visitors will get the chance to experience the city's heritage on the River Mersey.

Following the success of last year's 'Summer Evening Cruises', 14 have been scheduled to take place between May and September featuring live entertainment from local artists.

Running for two hours each cruise also features a fully licensed bar and visitors will experience the views of both Liverpool and Wirral waterfronts for £14.95 per person.

The Beatles tribute cruises will also be returning in April, July and August at £20 per ticket and passengers will be able to enjoy a performance from Paperback Writers, The Beatles Experience.

Mersey Ferries' Gary Evans said: "There's a huge focus on Liverpool's cultural agenda in 2018 – the 10th anniversary year of the European Capital of Culture – so our programme of cruises and events this year has been specially created to help celebrate a really significant milestone in this city’s history.

"We wanted to offer something unique and memorable with every cruise, so we've tried to come up with a programme that really has something for everyone.

"What better way to celebrate Liverpool’s heritage than to experience the spectacular views of Liverpool’s waterfront whilst enjoying a themed cruise on the River Mersey.”

There will also be special Mersey Ferries’ themed evening cruises which will pay tribute to the likes of Motown and ABBA.

For passengers who love history, there is also the chance to explore the Manchester Ship Canal which takes visitors on a journey along historic buildings, industrial landscape and countryside.

'Who Dunnit Cruises' will return between April to October in and passengers will have to try to solve a case that unfolds before their eyes.

For information on Mersey Ferries' full programme of summer activities, visit www.merseyferries.co.uk, call the ticket box office on 0151 330 1003 or visit any one of Merseytravel terminals.