Ferry sailings to be changed as low tide in Douglas stops vessels from docking

Ferry sailings to the Isle of Man have been rescheduled as the tide in Douglas harbour will be too low for vessels to safely dock.

The changes impact those travelling on the 'Manxman' or the 'Ben-my-Chree' from Heysham on Wednesday 9 to Tuesday 15 April.

Affected passengers will be contacted of the changes, according to the Steam Packet Company.

The Isle of Man Department of Infrastructure’s Harbours Division has scheduled plough dredging work to begin next week, addressing the 'high spots' within the harbour.

It comes after the 'Manxman' ran aground in Douglas at the beginning of March due to 'low spring tides'.

While there was no danger to those on board, passengers had to wait for the water levels to rise before being allowed off.

The 'Manxman' is also set to be out of service on 15 April, in order to undertake its annual Marine Evacuation System (MES) deployment exercise.

Leaving the 'Ben-my-Chree' to operate the scheduled Isle of Man to Heysham return sailing.

The Steam Packet Company say if passengers are unable to travel on their original bookings, full refunds or amendments will be made free of charge.

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