The Steam Packet has launched a public consultation on what islanders want to see for a replacement for Manannan.
However, the company said the new ship will “not be a direct replacement on a like-for-like basis”.
Manannan which has served with the Company since 2009, was built in Tasmania in 1998 and served with the US military before entering the Irish Sea.
The company said: “Although the new vessel is being built to IOMSPC designs to replace Manannan in the fleet, due to changes in technology, regulations and customer wants and needs, this will not be a direct replacement on a like-for-like basis.”
Brian Thomson, Managing Director, said: “Fleet renewal is about investing for the future of the island.
“This consultation is an important input to our decision-making process and ensures we consider the desires of our customers who rely on our services.
“Of course, these desires are in addition to our focus on the critical mission to ensure long-term reliability, year-round connectivity, sustainability and a modern fleet that supports the island’s future needs.”
Providing a fast craft vessel is currently a requirement of the Sea Services Agreement, but the agreement on refers to a “fast craft replacement vessel”.
The survey is available from today and will remain open for two weeks. It can be accessed online via www.steam-packet.com/public-consultation