Champagne broken over the bow of the Steam Packet's new vessel
In the last hour the Steam Packet's new flagship 'Manxman' has been officially welcomed:
That's the sound of Janice McDowall, Liverpool Terminal Manager and employee of the Steam Packet for over 20 years, who had the honour of smashing the bottle of champagne over the Manxman's bow - though it may have taken a couple of attempts...
'It is more than just a company, it's a national asset.'
Chief Minister Alfred Cannan, who secured the government-ownership of the Steam Packet in 2018 during his time as treasury minister, said the team had done 'an incredible job':
'The travelling public are in for a treat when they eventually do get on the Manxman, it will be a unique experience completely different to what they're used to on the Ben-my-Chree.'
Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson said the new vessel is a 'real tribute' to those who've worked to get her to the Island:
Meanwhile, away from the ceremony itself, there's been criticism of the decision not to allow the public onto the vessel themselves before it enters paid service.
Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse says it 'seems wrong, when those people cannot be part of the celebrations and go on board the Manxman. That would really galvanise the sense of pride that swept the Island when the Manxman arrived'.
The Manxman will sail into Douglas Bay at 10:30pm tonight when a fireworks display will take place.
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