29 July 2010

Good afternoon

As some of you may be aware, in addition to the crankshaft failure on one of Manannan’s engines, we have now also suffered a similar failure on one of Snaefell’s engines.

Snaefell has suffered the first crankshaft failure in all the time she has been with us. She is not as quick as Manannan on three engines and I do apologise to those passengers who are delayed on their journeys as a result. We have been experimenting with different trim levels to see if we can help the speed a little and initial results are encouraging. This can help on the lighter Irish sailings but is of little assistance on busier Liverpool sailings.

However, on this front too the news is a little better. We have decided to substitute as many Snaefell sailings as possible with Manannan.

We had originally hoped that Manannan’s crankshaft could be repaired with the engine in-situ. However, given our desire to ensure that the repair is done to the best possible standard, using expert manufacturer representatives, we have concluded with regret that it is in the best long-term interest of our passengers to remove the engine from the vessel. This will mean that Manannan remains on reduced speed until the end of the season.

Thankfully, one of the key criteria when looking at vessels for us was the ability to maintain a reasonable speed on not just four but also three engines. Manannan is particularly good in that regard with respect to many other fast craft. As a result we anticipate that this positive move for passengers will assist with the operation of the Liverpool services.

In the meantime I would ask for your continued patience and assure you we are doing everything else possible to minimise the impact of this problem on our passengers.

On a more positive note it was encouraging to see the Belfast to Peel service so well supported. The trip was a sell out and 480 passengers enjoyed an exciting day out. A choice of coach tours was laid on to allow visitors to take in the sights of both the North and the South of the Island. We are now looking forward to the Fleetwood day trip on 7th August – that too was quickly sold out and will be bringing another 480 visitors to the Island.

Finally, the school summer holidays have arrived and we still have good availability of our ‘Children go free’ offer so please do hurry and book these as soon as you are able.

Until next time

Mark

9 July 2010

Good morning

Last weekend we experienced unseasonal gales that caused the cancellation of one of our fast craft return services. We were not alone however, and other Irish Sea operators also suffered similar problems with their own fast craft schedules. Looking ahead it is also a little unsettled although we hope there will be no further weather related difficulties for our passengers.

I have received a lot of very good and positive feedback on a number of fronts in the last few weeks. Some of this relates to Manannan, particularly from seasoned TT visitors who found Manannan to be a huge step forward in terms of passenger comfort and facilities. Also it is clear that the round the Island cruise on Ben-my-Chree was a very enjoyable event and enjoyed by many who wrote in to tell me also what good value it was for the fare charged. I hope that the other round Island cruises planned for later this month and next are similarly well received.

As many of you will now know, we have suffered a technical problem with one of the four engines on Manannan. The problem was a potentially serious one and if it had been ignored could have led to us losing an engine altogether. As it was, timely intervention by our on board engineers prevented this. The upshot is however that we will need to replace the crankshaft.

The crankshaft weighs in excess of four tons and is over five metres in length. As this is located right at the bottom of the engine it means that the whole engine must be first stripped down. This means removing turbo blowers, cylinders, pistons, timing equipment, fuel supply and ancillary items. Once this is done the engine block must be lifted from the bedplate and the failed crankshaft removed. This requires us to cut a hole in the transom of the vessel, both to get the old crankshaft out and the new crankshaft in.

Once we have removed the old crankshaft we need to check alignment to within microscopic tolerances to minimise the chances of this happening again and to try and determine the cause of the failure in the first place.

We also need to satisfy the various marine authorities that the repair has been properly implemented.

Rather than simply take Manannan out of service we have instead chosen to work around her schedule as much as possible. This will mean that she will operate with the remaining three engines only, and therefore on reduced speed. I understand this will mean short delays for many of our passengers but by leaving early and trying to speed up the turnarounds by using additional resources I do hope we can minimise this issue. This kind of repair has not been attempted while a ship remains in service to my knowledge. The downside is that the issue will take longer to resolve than would be the case if the vessel was simply taken out of service. Also, we cannot rule out having to make some schedule changes as the repair progresses. We will of course try to give as much notice as possible to our passengers should this prove necessary.

In the meantime I would ask for your patience as we push hard to resolve this problem.

Until next time

Mark

21 June 2010

Good morning

Well another TT has passed and the Island now slows down to normal speed for a few weeks until the start of school holiday season.

It was a successful TT period from many points of view.  All those I have spoken to seem to feel that the event was much livelier this year. The events on the promenade coupled with a much more festival feel along the sea front seemed to work well.

During the TT festival period we brought over more than 10,300motorcycles, an increase of 4%  on last year. We also carried more than 31,500 passengers each way. Many of those were on board Manannan who has now firmly proved herself with a second TT period under her belt. She has proven to be a comfortable and capable vessel, carrying up to 380 motorcycles at a time. Unloading the vehicle deck in Douglas with that many motorbikes on board is quite a sight!

I am pleased that one of our local riders that we sponsor, Dan Kneen, did well. He is a popular and able rider and it seems that he will do very well in future. We are assisting him with travel as he competes in a number of key events during the year such as the British Supersport Cup which Dan is currently leading. With a further 8 rounds of the championship at Mallory Park, Knockhill, Snetterton, Brands Hatch, Cadwell Park, Croft, Silverstone and Oulton Park between now and October there are plenty of opportunities to follow Dan’s progress on television.

Last Saturday the Ben-my-Chree took a ‘round the Island’ cruise. From feedback received so far it seems to have been a popular event  - there are more to come on the evenings of 28th July and 18th August so please do book early if you want to be on board. There are few better ways of viewing our beautiful coastline.

Some of you may have noticed that there have been quite a number of car clubs on the Island already this year. There are more to come to with trips scheduled by clubs representing owners of MG, Jaguar, Lotus and so on. Also likely to be very noticeable is a visit by the classic Mini owners club as well a group of different marque veteran and classic cars.

Mark

28 May 2010

Good morning

You may have heard on Manx Radio recently a piece about Steam Packet bookings for the TT. Confounding the general economic woes that seem to exist throughout much of Europe it seems that the lure of the Isle of Man TT Festival is as strong as ever. Indeed our booking numbers at present suggest that there will be even more bikes on Island this year than there was last. Teams are now beginning to arrive on Island to prepare for the races.

Also this weekend of course is the pre TT classic racing on the Billown  circuit which is always a great warm up spectacle to the main TT event. The TT is proving popular as always.  It is encouraging to see increased traffic during TT Practice Week as a result of our new ‘TT Taster’ Special Offer fare. Around 400 bookings have been made so far at the time of writing.

Looking further ahead, TT 2011 is the Centenary of the Mountain Course racing so demand is expected to be high. Our 2011 provisional bookings system will be opened from Monday 31st May 2010 allowing bookings for next year’s event.

Here at the Steam Packet we consider carefully how we can assist local sportsmen and women to better compete in their chosen field on the international stage. We view those we choose to assist as ambassadors for the Island which through their success reflects well not just upon themselves but also upon the Island which they call home. The motorcycle racing scene has of course always been close to our hearts and we are looking to further strengthen our involvement with the local bike racing scene. You can expect some news on this front in the near future so keep a look out in the local media.

This weekend marks the 70th anniversary of ‘Operation Dynamo’. This was a massive effort to extract the remains of the British Expeditionary Force from the clutches of the advancing German army. By hook or by crook an armada of all types of ships and boats did their bit to evacuate troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. The Steam Packet Company played its part and had significant involvement. Unfortunately we lost three ships during the evacuation. Dunkirk was perhaps the Company’s finest hour, with the Mona’s Isle being the first vessel to leave Dover for Dunkirk and the first to complete the round trip during the evacuation. Eight company ships took part in the historic mission, rescuing a grand total of 24,699 British, French and Belgian troops from certain death (as a matter of interest, this means that 1 in every 14 lives saved during the Dunkirk evacuations was carried by an Isle of Man Steam Packet Company vessel).

An eye witness account at the time describes how he witnessed the sinking of two of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company ships, Mona’s Queen and King Orry, one of which struck a mine at the entrance to Dunkirk harbour and the other which was hit by a bomb.

As a matter of interest it is hoped that the anchor of the Mona’s Queen can be raised and transported back to the Island where it can be put on permanent display in a suitable location. A Ceremony will be held this weekend to mark this event and will be attended by senior personnel from the Company.

Finally, I would like to wish all our visitors an enjoyable and above all safe TT Festival.

Mark

11 May 2010

Good afternoon

We are now less than three weeks away from TT 2010 and there is much evidence on our roads of work being done in order to ensure the course is ready. Similarly here at the Steam Packet a great deal of planning and preparation is necessary. The TT period represents an enormous operational peak for the Company. I believe that very few companies anywhere else in the world have such an intensive and short period of peak demand. At this time our ships are running almost constantly. That makes planning an important consideration. We along with the Department of Infrastructure maintain a close liaison in order to ensure we are as prepared as possible.

This year as well as our own ships (Manannan, Snaefell and Ben-my-Chree), we will also have sailings provided by P&O with their fast craft P&O Express to and from Larne. Good weather is not only key to a successful event but is also important to help us keep all ships running at this vital time. With the increased intensity of sailings and other related activity comes also an increased need for staff. Our ‘core’ staff numbers are typically around 300. During the TT period this figure rises to almost 500. The training, familiarisation and associated practices constitute a huge challenge at this time to our Human Resources department.

Once again it seems that the spectre of the Icelandic ash cloud is with us. We have again taken the pre-emptive step of substituting Snaefell (originally scheduled) over the last weekend with Manannan to ensure that we have plenty of capacity available should people need or choose to use our services. It seems that the situation could remain fluid for some time to come and we at the Steam Packet will keep a careful watch to ensure we can provide additional capacity if it is needed.

I note in this week’s Examiner that a passenger has written a letter regarding comparisons with English Channel services. Unfortunately as is often the case the points made reflect a personal viewpoint not actual fact.  For example the letter claims Brittany Ferries charges no credit card booking fee.  According to their website, Brittany Ferries levies a £5 booking fee for credit card bookings - the Steam Packet Company fee is only £3. Brittany Ferries promotional or special offer fares are non-refundable, as with the Steam Packet Company. Brittany Ferries standard fares can be cancelled with the loss of the £25 deposit. If full payment has been made, the refund is ‘paid’ as a travel voucher with a two-year lifespan. Steam Packet Company standard fares are refundable via the means in which they were paid subject to a sliding scale cancellation fee.

The writer also comments on websites.  I have used Brittany Ferries website and frankly I find it no better or worse than our own. Again, the writer has a purely subjective view of what constitutes ‘user friendly’.

On a more general point, the English Channel routes are the gateway to France and countries beyond. There are around 26 million people in the south of England within relatively easy access to the south coast ports. Similarly there are many millions in northern France. These populations contribute to the 18 million ferry passenger carryings across the channel each year. Compare this to the 600,000 passenger carryings to and from the Island. It is clear that the difference in size of the readily accessible markets for each operation result in distinctly different operating conditions.

Notwithstanding the many erroneous points made in the letter, the Steam Packet Company is keen to keep abreast of developments with other ferry operators, and in some areas, such as the use of text messaging to keep passengers informed, is actually well ahead of others!

That’s all for now.

Mark

20 April 2010

Good morning

Well it has been a very unusual weekend in the travel sector. The widespread closure of airports has not only left many holidaymakers stuck away from home, jobs and schools, but it has also placed real emphasis on how much flying is now taken for granted. While there have been some who do and would not miss regular air links, it is a fact that for a majority of us here on the Island such links are essential as part of an integrated and effective transport network.

It is not surprising therefore that the ferry and rail companies have experienced an increased demand for their services as an alternative to those temporarily unavailable by air. The Channel ports have experienced huge demand and we here in the Isle of Man have certainly noticed an increase too.

Over the long weekend since last Friday, our passenger numbers have increased by nearly 50% and we have carried over 9,000 passengers in total. While a number of sailings have been very busy, we have great capacity with Manannan. We are quite confident that we can continue to meet the current higher levels of demand if that proves necessary.

I am aware that some travel companies in the UK have been accused of ‘profiteering’ during this issue. I am aware too that there are some on Island who will no doubt accuse local operators of the same. I must make it quite clear on behalf of the Steam Packet that our fares have not been increased in any way during this unusual period.

Our allocation of special offers is still in place and although demand for ferry travel is higher than normal, fares from as little as £23 single are still available for travel this week, with many passengers already having secured entry level fares of only £18.50. In addition, the £10 single fare for passengers aged 60 or over is still available.

On another positive note it seems that our TT bookings are currently on a par with last year. The signs are good for a great event this year. The ‘TT Taster’ offer is proving very positive for practice week and continues to attract bookings.

Until next time

Mark

1 April 2010

Good morning

We are fast approaching the first of the long Bank Holiday weekends in the year. Easter is relatively early this year and of course the schools are breaking up only as the Bank Holiday weekend gets underway. Easter is always a busy time for us here at the Steam Packet and this year we had the added pressure of ensuring the Ben-my-Chree came out of a major overhaul on time so that we are able to meet the high level of demand.  It’s just as well then that the Ben did indeed make it out in good time and in good shape. It was a very successful overhaul and we were able to do many of the things necessary behind the scenes to ensure that she remains just as reliable for the next decade as she has been for the last. Of course, Easter also marks the beginning of the Liverpool fast craft service using Manannan.

It is very unfortunate that we suffered an incident where a section of the gangway for foot passengers in Heysham was damaged. I am grateful that nobody was injured. I have seen some of the comments and video suggesting that the ship was not properly tied up - I can assure everyone that this is simply not true.

We take safety very seriously at the Steam Packet. We have an industry standard, independently audited and regularly updated Safety Management System. It’s a live system too which means it is regularly reviewed and added to or changed when experience suggests there may be a better way of doing something that is detailed in the system.

There is a full internal investigation underway and there will also be independent reviews of events by external specialist agencies. It is hoped that this will allow us to further improve the way we do things, and particularly to ensure that the chances of a similar incident occurring again will be avoided. Please be assured that safety is our number one priority.

Earlier this week we had a short period of very bad weather. While the Ben was able to maintain her sailings, some fast craft sailings were cancelled. We were able to advise passengers well in advance and once again made full use of the text messaging service to reach all those who had left mobile numbers when booking in order to minimise the inconvenience.

At the end of next week an exhibition called ‘Forced Journeys’ starts at the Sayle Gallery. It will be open from 9th April to 23rd May. It features artwork produced by those imprisoned in Isle of Man internment camps during the war. The Steam Packet is transporting the exhibition over to the Island and will also be featured as part of the exhibition at the gallery. We have also helped to bring over the new Age Concern CHAT bus – Community, Health, Advice and Training. The bus will be available for Island voluntary and healthcare organisations to take their service into the heart of the community and this is just one of the many ways in which the Steam Packet gets involved with local community initiatives and support.

One final point, the ‘Over 60’s’ offer has proven very popular but stops on May 20th.  I would encourage anyone else thinking of booking this offer to do so quickly!

An enjoyable and happy Easter to all.

Mark

19 March 2010

Good morning

We are now well past the date at which those visitors who choose to book in advance for the following years TT have to confirm their intention to travel. The good news is that our forward bookings for 2010 are on a par with those for 2009. Because we have Snaefell and Manannan (as well as the Ben-my-Chree in the fleet for the TT period) we still have some space available on all key inward and outward dates. These sailings are proving very popular but if you had given up hope of getting the sailing of your choice all is not lost. Contact us quickly though as demand is still high! We also have chartered the P&O Express this year to provide additional Irish TT Capacity from Larne.

Overhaul work is progressing well on the Ben-my-Chree and everything appears to be on schedule for her return to service next weekend. The chartered freighter has done a good job for us as a stand in vessel but it is clear when the Ben is missing just how a good a ship she is! However, Manannan has done a great job of standing in for the Ben with many passengers I know enjoying the fact that you can be on the adjacent Isle with your car in only two hours. Manannan has also helped carry some heavy freight as well as providing for the first time the capability of fast craft services for coaches.

The full spring fast craft service starts with a vengeance shortly, with some very attractive fares on offer. For example, foot passenger fares start from £18.50, children from £15.50 each way direct to Liverpool city centre and arriving by 10am. These fares are widely available. With no baggage charges you can take and bring back as much as you can carry! Of course there are also no debit card fees, hassle-free check-in and space on board to move around or catch up with a film, have something to eat or just sit quietly and enjoy the view.

For those wanting a weekend away or a short break further afield, onward connections throughout the UK rail network with Sail and Rail offers some fantastic deals. For example you can get to London from just £61.50 return – that’s London city centre, not Gatwick airport so you avoid a minimum £25.80 return Gatwick Express transfer cost! For more great fares just visit our Sail and Rail page.

Remember though that currently Sail and Rail bookings need to be made in person at the Ferry Travel Shop.

We had around 60 classic cars coming in to the Island on Manannan yesterday for the inaugural Three Legs of Mann Classic Car Trial which is on this weekend. It promises to be an exciting event.  If you want more information on this go to the website: http://www.classicrally.org.uk/

That’s all for now.

Until next time....

Mark

1 March 2010

Good afternoon

As I write this the Island is once again in the grip of ice and some snow. However the good news is that winds remain relatively light and that seems to be the forecast for the remainder of this week at least. In general this winter since the turn of the year we have not yet suffered prolonged periods of strong wind. We usually lose a few sailings during the winter to wind, but this year we have lost none to date because of wind – only two due to fog causing the closure of the Port of Heysham.

As many of you should now be aware the Ben-my-Chree leaves for an intensive overhaul this Friday.  She is required to do this every two years. During this time as well as essential maintenance on engines, generators and ancillary equipment, checks are also made on the condition of her hull and safety equipment. This year the work will be carried out in Birkenhead using Cammell Laird shipyard and dry-dock as well as many independent specialist contractors.

She will be away for almost three weeks. This is a week or so longer than is usually the case. The reason is simply that there is an enormous amount of work to do in order to ensure that she remains the hugely reliable servant to the company and to the Island that she has been for the last twelve years. We also have to do repair work to the propeller blades which were damaged recently when berthing in Douglas harbour.

Manannan has arrived back in Douglas ahead of her entry into service to cover for the Ben while she is away. This week she will be subject to various statutory inspections and drills to ensure that she is ready for service by the weekend. Many of you will have seen her out around the Island over the weekend doing various sea trials. Over the winter period we have made additional changes to Manannan designed to improve further her facilities and address some issues that both passengers and crew had identified as having room for improvement.

In particular we have added some further areas of non slip coating to decks, addressed some issues with the lift by the manufacturer and faired in some of the open stern to minimise water spray ingress on to the vehicle deck.

This week marks the launch of the Steam Packet Passenger Charter. This has been developed over the last few months and we have also undertaken a period of staff training to make sure that all are aware of its contents and the manner in which it is to work.  In simple terms the Charter sets out what you can expect from the Company, and addresses in particular the vexing issue of emergency alteration of travel plans for the first time.

There are occasions when despite the most careful planning services cannot be provided to passengers as expected. This may be because of third party issues such as closure of ports, weather conditions, technical problems or accidental damage. Whatever the situation, the Steam Packet is already the most flexible and responsible of travel operators to the Island. If alternative arrangements can be put in place then we do all we can to ensure this happens.

We were the first company on the Island to provide SMS texts to passengers and now routinely use this service to advise our passengers of problems as well as give early warning of likely weather disruption. This value added service allows our passengers to make informed choices about upcoming travel arrangements.

We take our responsibilities seriously and the Passenger Charter is designed to clearly demonstrate that this is the case.

Mark

12 February 2010

Good afternoon

Today is school half term and the Island is beginning to rouse itself a little from the grip of what has been so far a very cold winter. The severe cold weather has also prevented some passengers from travelling. We have noticed this during the very coldest period as too has the airport judging by visitor numbers recently released. Not that I am complaining about the weather – in fact it is always nice to enjoy a period free of strong wind and rain, albeit that fog has made life difficult on a number of occasions as a result!

We are also fast approaching the time when the Ben-my-Chree must go into dry-dock. This year, Manannan will be coming out to take up responsibility for the passenger service. We have also chartered a freighter to look after the needs of our freight customers. I hope that the period the Ben is out of service will pass quickly and without any problems caused to our passengers or customers.

Thankfully the recent damage to the propellers of the Ben has not prevented her from sailing. Regular checks by divers have confirmed that the situation has not deteriorated.  We are anticipating that she will be able to maintain her normal service up until the dry-dock period.

As is usual at this time of year we also turn our eyes forward to the TT. It is pleasing to report that our forward bookings are on a par with those last year suggesting at this stage that TT 2010 should be well supported by visitors despite the prevailing economic circumstances. There is still space available for those who wish to book for the TT especially from Northern Ireland and also from England outside of the peak few days. Our new ‘TT Taster’ special offer for Practice Week is also proving very popular.

That’s all for now

Mark

29 January 2010

Good afternoon

It’s been a little while since I last updated my blog. My apologies but there has been much happening to tell you about.

It is our real desire to improve the level of service we give to our passengers. It is also beneficial to make clear what it is possible for us to deliver consistently. As a result we have developed a Passenger Charter. This will be launched shortly after our staff  have been fully briefed on its content and how we expect it to be delivered. Expect to see more on the Passenger Charter soon.

The UK authorities have now tightened air and sea security requirements following the recent airline terrorism incident in the USA. Typically airline travellers tend to get the most obvious security checks. However, those travelling with us may have noted a higher proportion of passengers being searched. It is expected that this higher threat level may be maintained for some time. I hope you as our passengers will understand the need to comply with these regulations and be as patient as possible if you are stopped for security reasons.

We are often concerned with the wind strength here at the Steam Packet. Too strong a wind makes sailings less comfortable and can even lead to service disruptions. However, too little wind can also generate its own problems. When the wind strength is low and conditions are wrong we can end up with dense and lingering fog. Dense fog is usually more of a concern when driving or for airports but it can sometimes also affect ports.

Last Friday night our Ben-my-Chree sailing to Heysham was not permitted to enter the harbour as the Port of Heysham was temporarily obliged to close to traffic. Unfortunately, weather forecasts had not predicted such a situation and the Ben-my-Chree after waiting outside Heysham until 1.30am for an improvement in conditions had no option but to return to Douglas.

Passengers on board were understandably frustrated but our staff made every effort to keep them comfortable and helped them make alternative travel arrangements. Fortunately, conditions while still foggy allowed a return sailing the next morning and we were able to get people to where they needed to be.

It was however heartening to receive positive feedback including a response from one passenger on board who wrote:

“I was on the sailing on Friday night 22nd January, IoM to Heysham which had to turn back to Douglas when the Port of Heysham was closed because of fog. I just wanted to say how professional and impressive the staff on the Ben My Chree were. We were given very regular updates about the situation, and the guy who I think was the Navigation Officer was brilliant. At the end of the day you can do nothing about the weather, and whilst it was probably an inconvenience for some, it couldn’t be avoided, and IoMSPCo did everything they could to make amends by offering free refreshments, and even a cooked breakfast to those that wanted it. Overall the situation was handled brilliantly and I was really impressed with what was probably a difficult time for the crew. Also, changing my sailing was not a problem, not like with some transport operators who are rubbish at handling delays and informing their passengers when they experience problems”.

These comments echo others that are similar. I hope that your next experience when travelling with us will be similarly positive!

That’s all for now

Mark

8 January 2010

Good Morning and a Happy New Year to you all,

The weather has continued to cause delays for most forms of transport but I am pleased that any delays relating to our shipping services to the Island have been entirely for the right reasons. On several occasions early in the New Year we made the decision to delay the morning departure of the Ben-my-Chree. This was to allow those people booked additional time to get to the boat, recognising the impact that the weather has had on driving conditions on Island.

This is a busy time of year as ships are overhauled ready for the peak spring and summer service. Snaefell is the designated stand-by vessel on minimum notice to return to operational service at present while Manannan is in undergoing annual overhaul. When overhaul work is completed, Manannan will enter service to cover for the Ben-my-Chree when it goes in for its bi-ennial overhaul work. A freight ship has also been chartered to ensure there are no disruptions to the supply of goods to the Island’s shops and businesses. Snaefell will be overhauled when the Ben returns to service and will enter service herself after Easter.

The Ben-my-Chree is 12 years old this year. A major mid-life dry-docking (she has now completed around 60,000 running hours - or just short of 7 years continuous running!) is planned.  This work is scheduled for the period 6th to 25th March.

I have just been glancing through a final version of our “Explore the Isle of Man 2010” brochure which will be distributed shortly. I think it does a good job of advertising not just our services, but just as importantly the merits of the Isle of Man as a holiday destination. We at the Steam Packet are very aware of the role we must play in bringing visitors to the Island and this has been reflected throughout the brochures we will be introducing in 2010. It is also of course clearly recognised in the significant marketing spend we are committed to each year under the User Agreement

We will also be launching some additional ‘extra’ special offers for 2010 which I hope will be widely welcomed by residents and visitors alike. As well as the ‘TT Taster’ announced late last year we are also targeting those areas where we recognise that lower fares would help. For example, our ‘Children Go Free Summer Special’ is specifically aimed at making travel easier for families during the school summer holidays. Details will be widely publicised and will also be contained within our ‘Steam Packet Times’ publication which will be distributed to all households shortly via the Isle of Man Courier.

I hope many of you will take the time to read our new look ‘Steam Packet Times’.

That’s it for now

Mark

24 December 2009

Good Morning

The severe weather in the UK has reminded us all of the overwhelmingly ‘just in time’ nature that is prevalent in the retail sector here on the Isle of Man. Because of our highly reliable freight service very few local businesses keep large stocks of goods preferring instead to order them shortly before needed.  However when extreme winter conditions such as those experienced in Heysham recently take hold it can mean that stocks at local shops become depleted very quickly.

We at the Steam Packet are acutely aware of the role we play in ensuring that goods are available in Island shops. We did everything possible to minimise the recent problems caused as a result of the decision by Heysham Port Health and Safety representative not to allow working in the port that morning. Other operators using the port were of course also affected. That has not stopped us making strong representations that the Port must be prepared in future for such occasions.

Christmas is here and I hope you have all made any preparations necessary. It has been a difficult year for all on the Island and the Steam Packet is no different.  Whatever your views may be we remain committed to providing the best quality and value service we can. We are quite clear that the Island has a premium passenger service. Comparisons with services at the beginning of the last decade illustrate this point well.

But we are not content to rest on our laurels. We will continue to do all we can to maintain and where possible improve standards further. Look out in the New Year for ways in which we hope to achieve this as well as a range of additional offers to help make the Island a more attractive place for visitors as well as for residents.

On behalf of all our employees I wish you and yours health and happiness for Christmas and the New Year.

Mark

04 December 2009

Good morning

Yesterday various ceremonies were held to mark the 100th anniversary of the loss of the Steam Packet vessel Ellan Vannin on 3rd December 1909. As well as laying wreaths on the Mersey and in Ramsey, a service of remembrance is also to be held in Douglas this coming weekend. The Steam Packet has been and will be represented at each of these.  It is a terribly sad event in the history of the company and of the Island but one which it is entirely proper to remember.

It seems that the cessation of the early booking scheme for the Manx Grand Prix has caused some negative comment. It may interest readers to learn that only 3% of MGP passengers last year used the advanced booking facility. As a matter of fact, it is standard practice throughout the airline and ferry industry for passengers to pay with credit or debit cards at the time of booking and bookings for MGP are treated in the same way as bookings during the rest of the year.

Most passengers choose to book and pay only a few months before they travel but passengers who book early always get the best choice of special offer fares where available on quieter sailings. Passengers who provisionally book and then cancel do not help the tourism sector and in some instances can prevent other passengers from booking and deprive hoteliers of income.

Given recent events, this Company recognises the need for us all to pull together to ensure that we attract as many visitors as possible to our Island so that local businesses are supported and local VAT paid. It is a shame that some local media does not take a similarly responsible attitude to its reporting in order to present the best possible image of the Island to attract these visitors. That is just as important as any ‘Shop Local’ campaign if we are to make the Island attractive as a place to visit and ensure that money is spent here.

The Steam Packet is regularly criticised for what it has apparently failed to do to assist in attracting visitors. Perhaps we are not very good at blowing our own trumpet but the reality is that without the work and sponsorship that goes on behind the scenes many events we take for granted would not happen.

For many years we have had an association with the Southern 100 Motorcycle Club and the Manx Grand Prix organisers. While we are no longer an official race sponsor for the MGP and the TT, we are still the main commercial sponsor for the Southern 100 races in July.

What race fans and others may be unaware of is that for some time we have provided support in a number of other ways that all add up to a significant investment.

In addition to the extra sailings we provide to bring the many visitors to the TT and MGP, other forms of support include discounted travel for competitors in the Pre TT Classic, the Southern 100 and the MGP. We also provide assistance to fundraising events in aid of the Joey Dunlop Foundation and the Rob Vine Fund (in addition to the collections that take place on the vessels).

In 2008 we introduced a scheme whereby marshals who travel by ferry to cover both the TT and the MGP qualified for a discount off their MGP travel costs. We also support the TT Marshals Association through discounted travel rates whenever they travel to the UK for training or recruitment events. This year we have introduced the ‘TT Taster’ offer with up to 50% off standard fares. We believe it will provide a real boost to the Island visitor numbers - It’s a shame that such an innovative and positive offer was barely reported by our local media. Instead it attracted a sentence or two at the bottom of a largely negative article with a totally misleading headline.....

More unusual support was provided earlier this year in the form of assistance towards the transportation of around 800 square straw bales to the Island for the Billown circuit on a 19 metre road train. The bales will be used for the Pre TT Classic, the TT races and the Southern 100. This type of straw bale was not available on the Island and without them racing on the Billown circuit could not take place.

But it doesn’t stop at motorcycle racing. For the last three years, the Honda Powerboat circuit has come to the Isle of Man. This has been made possible partly due to a substantial level of support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in the form of subsidised transport for competitors and organisers. This support is a major contributory factor in being able to stage the Isle of Man round of the series.

For a number of years we have supported Rally Isle of Man through assisted travel for competitors, which has helped the event to grow. This year we are providing additional support in the form of subsidised transport for the bulk tanker required for the controlled rally fuel.

We also receive several hundred requests for assistance or sponsorship each year. Requests for sponsorship may include things such as Ad-hoc requests for monetary sponsorship, requests to subsidise the freight transport cost of items such as fire engines, theatre productions and so on, discounted travel requests from groups, clubs and individuals and prize travel vouchers for charity, school, club and corporate fund raising initiatives.

Add it all up and it is very clear that the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is still at the heart of the Island’s motorsport, special and other community events.

Perhaps our critics would like to consider this before they next put pen to paper?

That’s all for now.

Mark

20 November 2009

Good morning

It’s only a few weeks now until the 100th anniversary of the loss of Ellan Vannin. There will be various services of commemoration held both on and off Island to mark the event. I thought it would be appropriate to take this opportunity to remember the tragedy.

The Ellan Vannin was originally an iron paddle steamer built in Glasgow and named ‘Mona’s Isle II’. She began service with the company in June 1860, but in 1882 she was converted to a twin screw steamer in Barrow in Furness. Renamed Ellan Vannin in 1883 the vessel was mocked by some, but Manx sailors regarded her as the safest vessel afloat, and fondly referred to her as ‘Li’l Daisy’.

After many years of service, she was to set out on what sadly became her last journey. A little after 1.00am on the 3rd December, 1909, the Ellan Vannin set sail from Ramsey on her regular journey to Liverpool with an assorted cargo, including oats, turnips, potatoes, a large consignment of sheep, a sideboard and a piano! Also on board were fourteen passengers and twenty one crew members. The typical journey time in those days was  seven to eight hours, slow by modern standards.

Although stormy conditions were forecast, this was not unusual and certainly no different to many other crossings made safely over the years. Captain Teare was also regarded as being one of the most cautious of the company’s masters.

However, the weather deteriorated rapidly and severe gale force winds buffeted the tiny vessel as she made her way to England. In fact there were many other shipping incidents that night as the strengthening winds took a greater hold, even causing damage on land and widespread flooding. By 6.00am it was said that waves in the River Mersey were twenty four feet high. The severity of the weather increased as the Ellan Vannin reached the Bar Lightship, manned by Seaman Williams and Master Kewley. But no one reported seeing the ship as she sailed by. At approximately 6.45am Seaman Williams described seeing a green coloured flash, but with no further visible signs of distress Master Kewley decided not to summon the lifeboat.

Later that day a clock belonging to the Ellan Vannin was discovered in the vicinity of the flash stopped at 6.50am.

At 9.45am a telegraph was sent from Liverpool it read:
“Did Vannin sail one am this morning?”

At 11.53 a further telegraph was sent:
“Now 11.45 no sign Vannin strong gale blowing”

Later that day a final telegraph was sent – it read simply:
“Greatly grieved at sad news feel deep sympathy for bereaved families Bishop”

These telegraphs hang today in Imperial Buildings. It is a sad reminder of a dreadful period in our long history.

We have never used the name Ellan Vannin on any of our vessels since.

Mark

27 October 2009

Good afternoon

There is much happening here in Imperial Buildings as we prepare for the year ahead. The investigation by the OFT into our pricing has meant that we have had to devote much time and effort to gathering and preparing the vast amount of data that has been requested. This comes at the busiest time of the year for us and has had inevitable consequences with regard to our normal planning processes. As a consequence of the timing of the OFT work, we will not be able to complete the work necessary to allow early bookings in our system for 2010 until much later than is usually the case. I would ask that your bear with us. We will endeavour to get these systems ready as soon as possible, and aim to have all 2010 sailings bookable by our passengers in the next month or so.

It has been a difficult year for all of us here on the Island, with no question that things have been slowing down. The recent announcements regarding VAT sharing and tax changes are likely to further affect the way we all do business. The level of freight carried in 2009 to date is down considerably on that experienced only a few years ago. As many are aware, freight traffic is crucial to provide the subsidy needed to operate both the frequency and capacity of loss making passenger services on a year round basis. The loss of freight traffic then is of crucial importance to the way in which we are able to provide a full range of other services.

Passenger traffic though has held up reasonably well compared to last year. In no small part I think this is due to the introduction of Manannan into service. It’s interesting to note that airport numbers are down over 100,000 passengers over the past twelve months while sea carryings are only down a little. This is of course due in part to the recession; the impact of which in the case of the Steam Packet I believe has been limited because of the competitiveness of sea fares.

As we head toward the end of half term, so our winter schedule will begin with our fast craft services ceasing in early November. They will begin again next spring. In the meantime the Ben-my-Chree will begin her winter weekend service to Liverpool Birkenhead. Our forward bookings show that this service remains very popular, with passengers valuing the higher level of travel certainty that the Ben-my-Chree is able to provide.

Until next time.

Mark

30 September 2009

Hello

September is almost over and with it we move firmly into the Autumn period, a quieter time generally both for the Island and for Steam Packet Company passenger carryings. It’s a time too to reflect on the busy summer and see what lessons can be learned – what we did well and not so well.

Behind the scenes things are far from quiet however. We are entering the busiest period of the year as our teams ashore review and plan for the year ahead. Construction of timetables and sailing schedules, checking berthing slots with port operators, building databases for Reservations booking engines and publishing brochures are all necessary so that the ‘shop window’ is ready and passengers are able to book for the whole of the year ahead.

I know Christmas is a long way off but it is worth mentioning that this year we are pleased to be able to offer some Christmas Shopping opportunities during October and November.  Taking your car means there are no luggage charges or restrictions – if it fits in your car you can bring it home! These short breaks are very good value trips away to help those who wish to get their shopping done early. For example:

Manchester (Trafford Centre or city centre shopping) from £159 for two people, a car, one night accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, and return ferry travel.  Similarly on the same basis, we have Liverpool (Liverpool One or city centre shopping) from £169.

These are bookable though Steam Packet Holidays who can be reached on 01624 645777. We expect these to prove very popular so please book early!

As the gift season approaches it is worth noting too that we have now introduced online gift vouchers. These may be purchased from £5 upwards and are always appreciated by friends, colleagues, students and of course family.

Fast craft services will cease for the winter in a few weeks time. After this the Ben-my-Chree will take up her now familiar schedule of winter weekend daytime sailings to and from Liverpool Birkenhead, with mid week and overnight sailings as usual to and from Heysham. I came across a copy of our 1996 brochure recently – back in those days we offered only one return sailing at the weekend (on a Saturday), whereas now we offer four weekend return sailings, two on both Saturday and Sunday. That’s progress!

Manannan has been very well received by travelling passengers during her first season and during the winter months we aim to make some further improvements to address some of those issues that will further enhance the experience for our passengers. Manannan’s conversion and upgrade project has earned a nomination for Burgess Marine, the main contractor, for the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. This is a prestigious award, and nomination reflects well on both the companies involved as well as the Island.

The Ben-my-Chree is 12 years old next year and is also due her bi-ennial dry-docking. She will be out of service for approximately three weeks in March 2010. Manannan will cover passenger sailings during this period. A freighter has been chartered to provide cover for our haulage customers. Because of the general recession and wider economic woes, freight ships are generally less busy than in many a previous year. This has meant that we have been able to agree a charter well in advance. This provides certainty and will allow us to plan and our passengers to make bookings sure in the knowledge that late schedule changes due to lack of suitable charter ships will not be an issue.

Last week we were very pleased to welcome aboard the Rotary Club of Douglas to have a tour round Manannan. It was a beneficial experience both for the Steam Packet but also for Rotary members. It is important that we are able to take soundings and feedback both from passengers as well as other businesses. I hope that any other organisations out there that feel a similar learning exercise on one of our ships would be useful will make contact with us direct.

That’s all for now.

Mark

07 September 2009

Good morning

I hope all of those who managed to get away have had an enjoyable summer break. I hope too that the weather has been more reliable than summer on the Isle of Man has proven to be. Many people are of course still away as schools don’t start until later this week. Here on the Island our roads have once again become quiet after a spell as a race track while the Manx Grand Prix practices and racing took place. It is a shame that the weather has been so poor, and that many of our visitors staying under canvas have had to endure heavy rain.

This year it seems that the numbers attending the Manx Grand Prix are down on previous years, both in terms of numbers of visitors and motorbikes. I have no doubt that the fact that the UK is in the teeth of the worst recession for decades is a significant factor.

In general it has been a busy summer for all here at the Steam Packet.  We have scheduled a number of round the Island sailings. The latest of these on the Ben-my-Chree proved to be a great event for all on board with many passengers letting us know how much they enjoyed the sailing, food and service provided by the crew. Of course the scenery was not to be forgotten too!

The ‘End to End’ cycling event this year has attracted more than 750 off Island participants, and it is expected that there will be another 250 or so local entrants. The course runs from the Point of Ayre to Cregneash, a distance of 46 miles. The course includes stunning views, country lanes and forest tracks. It should make for an interesting spectacle.

As we approach the end of the peak summer period, our cheaper autumn fares begin: Starting from 15th September, a midweek 3 day return for Car plus 2 passengers costs from £112 return, a 5 day return from only £152 return. These represent excellent value for money and I hope will be welcomed by our passengers.

That’s it for now.

Mark

06 August 2009

Good morning

This will be my last blog for a while as I will be away on leave with my family. However, there will be someone ‘guest’ blogging in my stead while I am away.

The end of next week sees the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 arrive in Belfast – their final port of call. The Belfast Maritime Festival, which runs from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th August, promises to be a magnificent spectacle, and is one of many reasons to consider taking a short break in Belfast and the surrounding area. Our sailing schedule is ideally suited to this event. You have the option to make your own arrangements with a ferry only booking, or sit back and let us put together a packaged arrangement through Steam Packet Holidays who can be contacted on 01624 645777.

The ‘Round the Island’ trip by Manannan on Wednesday last week was once again a very successful event which quickly sold out. An enjoyable time was had by all, and one of our passengers summed it up perfectly: ‘I would like to say a big thank you to Captain Pirrie and his crew for a super cruise around the Island last Wednesday evening. The scenery was great and so nice to see from a different side. We all thoroughly enjoyed the meal and the staff were superb. Well done to all and thank you!’

The Ben-my-Chree completed her 15,000th crossing last week. She has been a fantastic servant for the Company and has operated with a reliability factor in excess of 99%. Many will recall the controversy surrounding the introduction of the Ben, and I am pleased that those who were so quick to criticise at the time, many of whom had not even been on board, have been proven quite wrong.

I mentioned in an earlier blog that Viking has been chartered to a company in the Azores, replicating what the Lady of Mann has done for many summers in previous years. Last weekend she arrived in the Azores ready to commence her summer service there. Before leaving for the Azores the charterers have made various modifications including the ability for Viking to operate as a side loader. She is due to remain there until late autumn when a decision will be made as to her future. In any event she is due to be returned to owners in September next year, and of course is surplus to Steam Packet requirements now that Manannan has been introduced.

Looking forward we are now working toward the Manx Grand Prix, which like the TT is later than usual this year. We have launched a medic discount scheme similar to that we have already introduced for marshals who travel to serve at both the TT and MGP. Volunteer visitor paramedics are a vital supplement to local paramedics during both the TT and MGP, but in previous years visitor paramedics have received no financial assistance towards travel costs. We hope that this concession by the Company will help to encourage support for both events on an ongoing basis.

That’s all for now, enjoy the holidays.

Mark