Calls to expand use of the Ben-my-Chree ferry have reignited debate over the vessel’s future role in supporting Isle of Man transport and tourism.
During this morning’s Keys sitting, Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson confirmed the vessel completed “six round trip services between the ports of Douglas and Heysham” in April, with further freight duties scheduled during the TT and Manx Grand Prix.
He emphasised that Ben-my-Chree remains “the island’s backup vessel” under the current sea services agreement, with “no further plans to utilise her in the current schedule.”
Think Bigger
Chris Thomas urged the government to think bigger, calling the Ben a vital asset and saying she can be “more than just a vessel on standby”.
Dr Allinson acknowledged the ship’s legacy, stating it “has now been serving the Isle of Man for the last 27 years as an extremely valuable part of the fleet,” but noted its age, saying “the average economic life span for a passenger ferry is between 25 and 30 years”.
Rob Callister asked about possible freight uses for the ship, citing “far too many actual empty shelves.” While Jason Moorhouse asked for data on passenger thresholds for viability and Julie Edge MHK pressed for clarity on which ports the ship can still access.
While Dr Allinson welcomed “ideas to economically leverage the Steam Packet Company,” he quipped that Mr Thomas’ suggestion of using the Ben to “press-gang” passengers on the spot was probably not credible.
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