Business
First Manxman Sailing Confirmed
Over 6,000 entries were received for free tickets on the first service
The Steam Packet intends to operate Manxman’s first service sailing on Thursday August 17.
The new flagship is expected to depart Douglas on the 8.45am sailing to Heysham, returning at 2.15pm.
Travellers who are currently booked on the sailing will be joined by the winners of the public draw to be on board for the first passenger crossing. 50 names were drawn at random to each win two tickets for the first service sailing, from over 6,000 entries received.
The inaugural sailing sets the pattern for Manxman’s first month of service as she operates the day time sailings to Heysham. Ben-my-Chree will continue to run the overnight service to allow Manxman time to bed-in before operating night time sailings to Heysham.
The evening departure from Douglas will move from 7.45pm to 8.15pm to allow for the changeover of vessels on the King Edward VIII Pier. It is expected the change over from day to night sailings will happen on September 17.
Ben-my-Chree will continue in operation until Manxman takes over the schedule full time in mid-to-late October.
