Ferry port repairs to take longer than expected

The Manxman's weekend winter sailings to and from the port will operate from Heysham instead for two weeks

Repairs to the berth at the Isle of Man ferry terminal in Liverpool will take longer than originally expected, the department of infrastructure has said.

The department said the contractor appointed to carry out the repairs to the fenders at the site had requested more time.

As a result, there will be additional disruption to weekend winter ferry crossings to and from the Liverpool port by the flagship ferry Manxman.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company confirmed, on top of the previously announced changes to this Saturday and Sunday's sailings, those scheduled for 8 and 9 November would also be operated via Heysham instead.

The ferry operator said coach travel would be provided to transport foot passengers between the city and the Lancashire port.

The repairs were delayed until the summer daily sailings of the Manannan came to an end

It was previously confirmed that the issue revolved around the protective cushioning device between the vessel and the berth, known as a dolphin fender, clashing with mooring lines at low tide.

The government-funded sea terminal was opened at the Princes Half Tide Dock in June 2024.

Although the problem had arisen during berthing trials last winter, the work was postponed until after the final summer season sailing of the fast craft Manannan last Sunday.

Once completed, both the Manxman and back-up vessel Ben-my-Chree would be able to use the berth, regardless of the stage of the tide.