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Displaying items by tag: Berth Trials

The Isle of Man Steam Packet’s fast-ferry Manannan made its first berthing trials on Merseyside’s new £70 million ferry terminal at Liverpool, from where they will connect Douglas.

The 1998 built Manannan, which operates seasonal services, undertook the exercise yesterday as part of the commissioning trial for the Irish Sea’s newest terminal. The trials are to enable major infrastructure marine works to be tested, with the 96m catamaran craft coming alongside the quay and link span.

Berthing trials are necessary as they are a mandatory safety procedure that are required during a project of this type as they enable each of the Steam Packet’s captains to become accustomed to the new berth at all tide levels.

The flagship of the company, Manxman, introduced last August, is to undertake berthing trials too, but the 133m ferry will take place later this year, prior to the start of the winter weekend sailing schedule.

As previously reported, Manxman had carried out 'virtual' berthing at the terminal.

More from Manx Radio on this development for the operator.

Published in Ferry

About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.