Back-up ferry brought in for passenger sailings

A back-up passenger ferry will operate sailings between the Isle of Man and Lancashire until further notice while work to repair a technical issue with the main vessel continues.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said attempts to resolve the problem, which led to the cancellation of Thursday's daytime crossings between Douglas and Heysham at 09:15 and 15:00, were ongoing.

The firm said although it had explored the possibility of the Ben-my-Chree operating the cancelled daytime sailings, a "lack of available port slots at Heysham" meant it was not possible.

The back-up vessel is now scheduled to carry out the evening sailing to the Lancashire port at 21:00.

Managing director Brian Thomson said: "We apologise sincerely to customers affected by the disruption and appreciate their patience and understanding.

"Our engineering teams are working to resolve the issue with Manxman as quickly as possible.

As well as drafting in the Ben-my-Chree, the government-owned ferry operator was adding additional weekend sailings to "help minimise disruption and ensure passengers can complete their journeys", he added.

Sailings are now due to leave Douglas at 20:15 on Saturday and return at 02:15 on Sunday.

Sailings by the fast craft Manannan between the island and Dublin and Liverpool are scheduled to run as planned.

Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.