DOI defends closure of Sea Terminal after cancelled sailing

Passengers claimed to be 'stranded' on Monday night

The Department of Infrastructure's defending its decision to close the Sea Terminal on Monday night when the Liverpool sailing was cancelled.

It's after claims a number of passengers were left 'stranded'.

The Manannan had been due to sail to Liverpool just before midnight, but was cancelled because of bad weather.
The decision to cancel the sailing was made at around 9pm.

Some of the passengers affected thought they'd be able to stay in the Sea Terminal overnight while they waited for the next ferry to be available, not knowing that the building is closed after the last sailing.

One person whose son and partner were among those affected, took to social media to thank The Barbary Coast in Douglas which was kept open so anyone 'stranded' could 'stay there and keep warm'.

The DOI - which owns the building - is now defending its decision to close the Sea Terminal that night.

It says it's policy for the building to be closed after the last Steam Packet sailing.

A spokesperson says while there are emergency plans in place to keep it open in exceptional situations, if there is no accommodation available on Island for example, on this occasion it believes there was sufficient notice given of the cancellation and that there were places to stay.

It adds that when the weather affects a sailing, it is the passenger’s responsibility to make alternative accommodation arrangements.

The Steam Packet is said to have advised local passengers to return home and visiting passengers who have been staying with family, friends, or local businesses to return to their accommodation, if possible, or find an alternative.

However, DOI acknowledges that it can be challenging to find a place to stay unexpectedly and has encouraged everyone to consider travel insurance that includes cover for unforeseen circumstances.

It finished by saying it was pleasing to hear of a local business helping passengers during this difficult time and that Government appreciates the discomfort felt by those affected by travel disruption.

It hopes that passengers still had an enjoyable visit to the Island.