Passengers hurt in 'carnage' stormy ferry crossing

Some vehicles were damaged amid the rough weather

Passengers were left injured and several vehicles damaged after a ferry crossing from Liverpool to the Isle of Man was rocked by stormy conditions.

It happened during the fast craft Manannan's delayed final evening crossing, which was scheduled to depart the city at 19:15 GMT on Sunday.

Posting on Facebook, one passenger described the crossing as "carnage", with ceiling panels on the vessel falling down, and said the crew "went above and beyond" to manage the situation.

Operator Steam Packet declined to comment on the seriousness of the injuries but issued an apology.

Managing director Brian Thomson said sorry for "any damages sustained to vehicles and to any passengers who suffered injuries during the crossing."

He added: "I would like to extend my praise to the crew for their fortitude and professionalism they displayed during this challenging crossing."

'Above and beyond'

A wave height within the vessel's operational limits of 2.7 metres (8.9 ft) in the Irish sea had been forecast but the conditions were "significantly rougher," the operator said.

Another passenger said they had "never experienced such a rough crossing and there were a lot of very frightened people".

"The staff deserve a massive shout out," they added.

The ferry did not reach its destination until 02:00 GMT - about four hours later than planned, according to one passenger.

Steam Packet said it was in contact with passengers who had been affected but could not provide details on individual cases.

One of the vessel's engines was shut down during the crossing after "an indication of smoke was detected" from that engine, it said.

The affected engine was shut down to allow for further assessment which was another "factor" for the delay to the service, the firm said.

Steam Packet thanked passengers for their "understanding and cooperation" during the sailing, adding "passenger safety remains our top priority".