Manannan ferry returns to Douglas after generator fault deemed it 'unsafe' to enter Liverpool

Passengers have returned to Douglas after a fault with the Manannan ferry around an hour into their journey to Liverpool.

The vessel left Douglas at around 7:15am, and was due to arrive into Liverpool at 09:55am.

However the Steam Packet Company (SPC) says a fault with one of the generators meant it was 'deemed unsafe' to enter Liverpool, with an additional risk that it would not be able to depart again if the fault remained in place.

Those travelling to Liverpool have since returned to the Isle of Man, and have been transferred to the Manxman ferry heading for Heysham, with coach transfers laid on to transfer passengers on arrival.

Passengers due to travel on the returning Liverpool ferry to the island are also being transferred to Heysham on coaches.

Engineers are working on the Manannan to resolve the issue, with a further update due at 13:00 in regards to the afternoon sailing.

Managing Director Brian Thomson commented: ‘We’re very sorry about these cancellations and we apologise for the disruption caused. We’re working hard to get things back on track as soon as we can. Our Reservations Team will do everything they can to ensure customers get where they need to go.'

The SPC say all passengers affected by the cancellations are eligible for free transfer to another sailing, or a full refund if preferred.

Bookings can be amended free of charge via online accounts, or by contacting our reservations team on 01624 661 661 or 08722 992 992.