An exciting programme of refurbishment and innovation is abroad at The Isle of Man Steam Packet as the Company’s fleet complete overhaul and survey work in readiness for a busy 2006.

The sleek fast craft Superseacat Two will be the first to benefit from the work carried out at North West Shiprepairers, Bidston Dock, Birkenhead before it will enter service on the Company’s Liverpool route on 17th March. A major refurbishment of her passenger area’s will include a superb café/bar at the aft end of the craft affording passengers unrivalled views as she speeds to and from the Island with a wave piercing crossing time of around 2 hours 30 minutes. A complete refurbishment of toilet facilities and improvements to all catering outlets will complement the spacious and airy layout of the craft. Enhanced wheelchair access for disabled passengers has also been a priority in the scheme.

Additionally and by public demand, the very popular ‘1st’ lounge is being extended as is the members only Blue Riband lounge.

Rupert Trevelyan, Steam Packet Director of Marketing said, ‘We are combining all the best ideas and suggestions gathered from our customers into our refurbishment programme of our vessels. Our passengers will notice the many improvements implemented as we continue our ‘best fares, best services’ programme’.

The twice daily summer service to and from Liverpool will commence on

7th April followed by the weekly services to Belfast and Dublin throughout the summer season.

For all information on year round special offer fares and sailings, please visit the Company’s web site at www.steam-packet.com

For further information, please contact Geoff Corkish, Communications Manager at SPC on 01624 645645