Further work required on Isle of Man ferry terminal in Liverpool after ferry unable to safely dock

Further work is required on the Isle of Man ferry terminal in Liverpool, after the Manxman and Ben-my-Chree ferries were unable to safely dock in low tide.

The Department for Infrastructure (DoI) say the 'mooring lines clashed with a dolphin fender' during the berthing trials, affecting the island's larger vessels during lower tides.

A dolphin fender is a protective cushioning device mounted on a marine structure to absorb the impact of a vessel during berthing or accidental collisions.

The issue affects both Manxman and Ben-my-Chree at low tides, but the Steam Packet Company say Manannan is unaffected.

Officials say work will be carried out over the next few months, as the DoI employ contractors in Merseyside to resolve the issue.

The Steam Packet Company say the Manxman winter sailings will be affected, as it begins its weekly winter service to Liverpool.

Sailings to and from Liverpool on November 1 and 2 will now operate to Heysham, with coach transfers to Liverpool Terminal laid on for affected passengers.

Managing Director of the Steam Packet Company, Brian Thomson: “We know this is frustrating and disappointing for passengers. However, by making limited changes to the schedule now, it is hoped the necessary works can be undertaken to allow us to offer a comprehensive schedule of weekend sailings to Liverpool throughout the rest of the winter.”

Work is due to take place as soon as the Manannan completes the summer schedule and the tidal and weather conditions are suitable to undertake the works.

The Steam Packet Company say all affected passengers will be contacted by the reservations team, and a full refund will be made available if required.

Early estimations suggest the terminal would cost around £70m, which is £32m over the original budget set by the Manx government.

In March 2025, the Chief Minister Alfred Cannan was unable to confirm the final cost of the terminal in a visit to the facility.

Responding to how much it may cost, Mr Cannan said: "From a capital project perspective, it has cost us a lot of money - far more than one would have wished - but we are where we are".

The government say further work is also likely to be carried out in March 2026.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...