The Steam Packet has called its freight boat the MV Arrow in to help ease the disruption caused by Manxman’s incident in Heysham.
Manxman was damaged in the incident overnight in the Lancashire port, with passengers transferred on to the Ben-my-Chree which was fortunately in Heysham for a freight run.
The flagship is believed to have collided with the harbour in Lancashire causing damage to her bow and stern.
The MV Arrow is on her way from Larne to Heysham to take over freight duties.
A passenger who sailed from Heysham on the Ben shared this picture with Manx.News of the damage to Manxman’s starboard side stern.
A company spokesman has now confirmed that contingency plans have been activated and will see Ben-my-Chree and Arrow maintain passenger and freight services respectively to minimise disruption across sailings while repairs are conducted on Manxman to allow it to re-enter service.
Fast craft Manannan will continue to operate its scheduled services as far as possible, however this afternoon’s Liverpool sailing has been cancelled and the ship’s master will make a decision tonight’s Heysham sailings later this evening.
The spokesman said: “In addition a yellow weather warning is in place for severe gales and coastal overtopping from 01:00 on Thursday, August 22, meaning further sailings are subject to disruption – including tonight’s delayed 8:15pm Douglas to Heysham sailing.
“All passengers due to travel on affected sailings over the coming days are being informed by our reservations team of the changes to the schedules. Passengers with web accounts can make amendments to their bookings online. Our reservations team will be happy to make changes to travel arrangements and confirm via email or phone where appropriate.”
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