27 July 2026
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Isle of Man News Travel

Steam Packet Launches Larne Service at Travel Show

The Steam Packet is showcasing its new and expanded services at Northern Ireland’s largest travel exhibition, the Holiday World Show.

The show takes place at the Waterfront ICC Belfast from today until Sunday (January 11).

In partnership with Visit Isle of Man, the company is highlighting enhanced travel options between Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the Isle of Man, including the new Larne route launching this year.

The service, announced in October 2025, will start sailings from Larne in April, with a full schedule from July offering three weekly sailings year-round.

The company has committed to the route for two years.

Larne Route

The launch was celebrated with the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, and Laura Gilmour, General Manager of Larne Harbour, both emphasising the route’s importance for tourism, trade, and connectivity across the Irish Sea.

The company’s stand also features TT rider Phillip McCallen, highlighting motorsport links between Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

Brian Thomson, Managing Director of the Steam Packet, will attend the media and trade morning alongside senior colleagues.

Brian Thomson said: “The Holiday World Show provides an excellent opportunity to engage directly with the Northern Ireland travel trade and media as we prepare to launch our new Larne route in 2026. This service significantly strengthens connectivity between Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man and reflects our long-term commitment to growing travel and tourism across the Irish Sea.

“We’re delighted to be working alongside Visit Isle of Man at the show to highlight the Island as an accessible, high-quality destination for short breaks, events and family travel, while also supporting vital freight and business links.”

Alongside Larne, the Steam Packet will continue its Dublin service, introduce extra Liverpool sailings, and offer initiatives like Kids Go Free and 10% off Flexi Fares.

Charlie Morrey is a Broadcast & Multi Media Journalist for Manx.News and also is a Presenter on Energy FM. Charlie has previously written for Isle of Man Newspapers, magazines and also started her broadcasting career with Manx Radio.

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