HMS Prince of Wales public tour ticket details

Liverpool’s latest maritime visitor to the Mersey arrives this month – and there’s a rare chance for people to step on board for a closer look.

The Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales is due to sail up the river on February 28.

And over the weekend of February 29 and March 1 members of the public are being allowed to board and tour the massive vessel. It will be the first time one of the Navy’s new carriers has been opened to visitors.

Free tickets for the special event are available to book HERE.

The warship is the fleet’s second new aircraft carrier, following the launch of HMS Queen Elizabeth.

Liverpudlian Gareth Mawdsley is the Commander of Logistics on board HMS Prince of Wales. The 41-year-old said: “Having grown up in Liverpool it’s always special to be able to sail back along the Mersey, and I’ve been lucky enough to do so in several ships before.

“But being able to bring the largest ship in the Royal Navy fleet into my home port is fantastic. The city is always welcoming to visitors, and mariners in particular, so I’m delighted we have the opportunity to return the hospitality by welcoming people on board during our stay.”

The ship’s flight deck is 70 metres wide and 280 metres long – enough space for three football pitches.

Visitors will need to be physically fit and able to manoeuvre around small spaces. Access to and exit from the ship is via four flights of steps.

Demand for tickets is expected to be high.

People without a ticket can still view the carrier, which will be berthed at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal, from waterfront areas including Princes Parade.