Operator Isle of Man Steam Packet says it's looking for a Senior Master to help oversee a planned new company vessel.

As Manx Radio reports, the current flagship, Ben-my-Chree was launched in 1998. It's envisaged the ropax ferry may become the back-up vessel in the fleet with the new ship becoming a replacement.

An advert placed by the Steam Packet reads that the successful person will "assist with the successful delivery of the new company vessel and manage that vessel for the foreseeable future. Applicants for the positions should have new build or shipyard experience and be able to travel to wherever the vessel is being built.

The company has agreed under the new sea services arrangement to provide two new vessels, with first being due to come into service in 2022.

There's no indication where the ship may be built, though Cammell Laird on Merseyside have indicated they would be eager for Manx business.

There's been no formal confirmation from the operator currently on their plans for a new ship.