Manannan Gets a Refurb

Isle of Man Steam Packet’s Manannan vessel has had a refit.

Its due to return to service at the end of this month. The summer-season-only vessel has ‘always been popular with the Isle of Man travelling public’ and the return to service is ‘a clear sign of spring’, says the company.

It says that due to the complexity of the works being carried out and ‘global supply chain challenges’, some of the upgrade work will continue into Manannan’s return to service. The company added that its staff and crew are ‘working tirelessly to minimise any disruption’ to passengers and the public.

Travellers who are ready to enjoy the speed and convenience of Manannan’s connection to Liverpool in 2023 will find the vessel has undergone the biggest refit since it first entered service with the company in 2009. This is both to improve the overall customer experience as well as to ensure the vessel remains reliable and welcoming.

Managing director Brian Thomson said: ‘After many years of great service it was becoming evident that Manannan could use some “TLC”. The team have worked around the clock to get as many of these upgrades as possible installed before she comes back into service on the 23rd of March to cover Ben-my-Chree’s dry dock period.

‘We’re looking forward to having Manannan back in service and hearing our customers’ feedback once they are onboard. We are pleased to invest in our fleet to improve the experience for our customers.’

In addition to exterior works, such as a fresh coat of paint given in dry-dock, details of the interior works carried out include new flooring in the main areas including the bar and all lounges, and the refurbishment of all seating and tables in the bar area. The toilets in the public area as well as premium and executive lounges have also been refurbished.

There is also a completely new galley/kitchen and servery being fitted that is a custom built to meet the customer service team’s specifications. There has also been substantial work completed on a new PA system and the updating of fire detector systems to improve safety features onboard.

Photo by Dave Kneale