Flagship 'Manxman' ferry out of service until late September with specialist repairs underway

The Isle of Man's flagship ferry will not return to service until late September 2026 due to "complex repairs".

The Steam Packet Company (SPC) say the 'Manxman' was taken to dry dock for scheduled maintenance, but further inspections found repairs are needed before it returns to service.

The ferry usually operates the route between Douglas and Heysham, carrying passengers and freight.

It entered the River Mersey to dry dock at Cammell Laird in Birkenhead on 15 July, and has remained there since.

Engineers identified areas of wear on propulsion shaft bearings, highlighting complex work required, with specialist parts needed to be shipped in to make repairs.

Managing Director Brian Thomson said: "We recognise this news will be frustrating for many of our customers and we apologise for the inconvenience caused.

"Extending the dry dock is necessary for safety and operational reliability. Completing these additional works now will ensure the vessel can continue to provide a reliable and dependable service in the years ahead."

A spokesperson from the SPC says the Ben-my-Chree ferry will continue to operate all Heysham sailings, while 'Arrow' has arrived on the island to provide additional support for freight services to and from the UK.

Investigations are continuing into the cause of the damage to the boat's shaft bearings.

The SPC Reservations Team say they will work closely with customers affected by vessel changes, or any necessary cancellations as a result of Manxman’s delayed return to service.

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