In 1989, "Mountwood" and "Woodchurch" were withdrawn and extensively refurbished internally which resulted in complete rewiring and main engine repairs. They were given new modern interiors and their separate bridge wings and wheel houses were plated over to form one large bridge, although none of the original equipment was removed from the new bridge. They entered service by July 1990 in time for the "QE2's" first visit to the Mersey and also operated the new "heritage cruises". They also were given a new black and red livery replacing the red white and blue given for the Garden Festival season of 1984. The "Overchurch" also underwent some refurbishments at Bootle. She was then moved to the ferries' regular berth on the East Float, where she was used as a stand by vessel and during the busy summer season. In 1996 the "Overchurch" was given a small refit which involved the enclosing of the promenade deck shelter.