Delayed: Manxman won't be back until November

SPC's 'sincere apology' to customers as repair work continues

Manxman won’t return to service until November.

The Steam Packet has confirmed an extra two months could be needed to repair the vessel’s two propulsion shafts.

The boat was taken out of service in July after issues were identified - you can find out more HERE.

Inspections carried out whilst Manxman has been in dry dock, in the United Kingdom, have found that other components have also suffered significant wear and need specialist repair.

An investigation into the root cause of the wear is now being carried out by independent specialist marine investigators.

Managing Director Brian Thomson said: “We recognise the frustration this outage has caused and sincerely apologise to our customers.

“Safety is our highest priority and Manxman will return to service only when all work is complete and fully tested.

“We are confident in the revised timeline announced today (8 September).

“In the meantime Ben-my-Chree, Manannan and Arrow will continue to provide the passenger and freight capacity needed to maintain our lifeline services.”

Manxman had initially been due to return to service at the end of September.

However both propulsion shafts now need to be transported to Denmark where specialist companies have sourced the materials to undertake the work.

It’s expected to take between six and eight weeks to complete; following the return of the parts to the UK a ‘complex re-assembly process’ will then begin.

“This is a highly complex operation, which will be followed by testing, sea trials and inspection by the company's regulators.” - Steam Packet Company

The Ben-my-Chree, Manannan and Arrow will continue to provide passenger and freight capacity during the extended period of work.

Passengers due to travel will be contacted directly in travel-date order.