Sailing disruptions of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company have been confirmed by the ferry operator with schedules over the next few days, as work is completed to resolve mechanical issues affecting one of the linkspans at Douglas Harbour.

Following an initial inspection by Department of Infrastructure and Steam Packet engineers, it is estimated rectification will take at least until the end of this week.

According to the Steam Packet, both Ben-my-Chree and Manannan will be utilising the King Edward VIII Pier (story) linkspan, initially with the 02:15 sailing from Heysham which will be rescheduled to 01:45. This will enable Ben-my-Chree to arrive on berth in Douglas at 05:45.

The early arrival of the Heysham-Douglas sailing will relieve some of the congestion in the harbour of Manx capital by allowing Ben-my-Chree to discharge before moving off berth to facilitate Manannan’s loading and departure. Ben-my-Chree will then return to the linkspan to load and depart on the scheduled 08:45 sailing.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is working closely with colleagues at the Isle of Man Government’s Department of Infrastructure’s Harbours division to resolve the mechanical issues as quickly as possible

Until the situation is resolved all sailings will operate from the functional linkspan.

All passengers booked on any affected sailings will be informed.