Ferry return delayed by 'complex' repairs

The Isle of Man's flagship ferry will be out of action for a further two months, the Steam Packet Company has confirmed, while specialist repairs take place.

The Manxman has been in dry dock in Liverpool since 13 July for scheduled maintenance.

The ferry firm said extensive wear was discovered after the shafts were removed for inspection. An independent investigation has been launched into the cause.

The back-up passenger vessel Ben-my-Chree will continue to operate services between the island and Lancashire while the work is carried out.

The update comes after a series of delays to the ferry's return, originally due to be operational again in July, and then later in September.

The operator described the refitting of the bearings and propulsion shafts, each weighing more than 17 tonnes and measuring 18 metres, as "highly complex".

Once completed, it said the process will be followed by testing, sea trials, and regulatory inspection before the vessel can resume sailings.

Managing director Brian Thomson said: "We recognise the frustration this outage has caused and sincerely apologise to our customers.

"Safety is our highest priority and Manxman will return to service only when all work is complete and fully tested. We are confident in the revised timeline announced today."

The Steam Packet said passengers with affected bookings would be contacted directly and offered alternative arrangements.

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