Liverpool Sailing and Return Cancelled Amid Severe Weather Conditions

The Steam Packet has announced the cancellation of today’s 3pm sailing from Douglas to Liverpool and its return due to deteriorating weather conditions.

Strong winds and significant wave heights have exceeded safe limits for the Manannan, prompting the company to make this decision to ensure passenger safety.

This latest disruption follows an overnight incident involving the Manxman, which sustained damage while docking at Heysham Port during its 7.45pm sailing from Douglas yesterday.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning amid unseasonably challenging weather, but no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.

Passengers on board the Manxman were provided with complimentary beverages while the crew worked to safely dock the vessel and assess the damage.

The Steam Packet Company has informed relevant authorities, including the Marine Accident Investigation Branch, as per statutory and regulatory obligations.

In response to the disruption, the company has activated contingency plans. The Ben-my-Chree, already in Heysham for additional freight coverage related to the Manx Grand Prix, was utilised to accommodate as many passengers as possible and completed the delayed 2:15am crossing from Heysham to Douglas.

While the Manxman undergoes repairs, Ben-my-Chree will take over passenger services, and Arrow will manage freight operations. The Manannan will continue its scheduled services as far as weather conditions allow.

Since the initial warning yesterday, forecasters at the Ronaldsway Met Office have upgraded the weather alert from ‘yellow’ to ‘amber’.

The amber warning remains in force until 4pm tomorrow (Thursday).

The main focus of the warning now is on coastal overtopping and inner-harbour flooding although there is still likely to be a strong southerly wind tonight which will increase to gale force, occasionally reaching severe gale force in some places with gusts of up to 60mph.

Passengers affected by the Steam Packet’s changes are being contacted by the reservations team, who are assisting with amendments to travel arrangements. Those with web accounts can also make changes online.

The company is closely monitoring weather forecasts and will keep the traveling public updated.

For the latest information, passengers are advised to visit the Steam Packet Company’s website at www.steam-packet.com/latestsailings.