Manxman to sail to Liverpool from November

Date confirmed as part of Tynwald written question

Manxman will start sailing to Liverpool from November this year.

The date has been confirmed as part of a response to a Tynwald written question.

Treasury Minister Alex Allinson says the vessel is currently scheduled to sail to the Merseyside port on Saturday, 9 November, arriving at 12.15pm. 

This date is reliant on the vessel passing its scheduled berthing trials.

Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas asked whether berthing trials have taken place for the Manxman and the Ben my Chree at the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool; and what berthing trials are scheduled there for these vessels.

It was previously announced that the Manxman is due carry out berthing trials in Liverpool from the end of this month.

In his answer, Dr Allinson said: "Isle of Man Steam Packet Company had previously scheduled trials for all its vessels during the winter period.

"However due to the technical delays to final completion of the berth facilities, these plans have needed to be slightly altered. 

"The Manannan completed berthing trials and staff training during the early part of her operational schedule when there were no morning sailings.

"The vessel was frequently repositioned to the River Mersey from the Isle of Man for the completion of these trials. 

"The Manxman will complete trials after a period in dry dock for scheduled routine maintenance in early October, the Ben my Chree will be utilised at the time to cover the Heysham service. 

"The Manxman will remain in the River Mersey area during trials. 

"Trials for the Ben my Chree are yet to be scheduled, however as her mooring layout and stern ramp height is similar to that of the Manxman, it is expected that once the Manxman trials are proved to be successful, then only minimal trials will be required for the Ben my Chree."

You can find the written answer in full HERE.