At a Tynwald Select Committee, it was discussed whether the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company needs to maintain the former flagship ferry that served on the Douglas-Heysham route.

The matter was raised at the committee sitting yesterday, as the Ben-my-Chree is a backup freight vessel now and that the IOMSPCo also owns the MV Arrow, which was acquired in 2022.

Manx Treasury Minister Alex Allinson confirmed while giving evidence to the committee’s session on the topic that the ferry operator is currently required to keep the former flagship as part of the Sea Services Agreement.

Last year’s arrival in the summer of the new flagship Manxman, which took place in August, saw the ‘Ben’ taken off regular passenger sailings on the Douglas-Heysham route, the islands only year-round lifeline operated service.

Speaking on ManxRadio, Dr. Allinson says the future of the ferry remains uncertain. Click here to listen to the minister from the station’s audio clip.