The Steam Packet’s supported sports scheme helped more than 9,000 passengers over the past year, with demand peaking in April and at its lowest in January.
Treasury Minister Chris Thomas said 1,080 passengers received discounted travel in April 2026, compared with 365 in January, reflecting the seasonal pattern of off‑island competitions.
He stressed the scheme is part of the company’s community support programme, not a government initiative.
Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse pressed for more detail on how allocations are decided, saying clubs believe there may be fixed numbers of discounted spaces per sailing, despite, as he put it, “the difference between a bike and a horsebox” when travelling.
He suggested increasing capacity in summer months when demand is highest.
Members also raised frustrations about the five day application window and the fact that discounted travel cannot be booked online.
Mr Thomas said he would raise all points at his upcoming meeting with the Steam Packet and ask the company to produce a clear public explainer covering how the scheme works, its criteria, and how it aligns with student and children’s travel offers.
The full exchange can be heard below:
