Weather conditions earlier today forced the scheduled 15.00 Viking sailing to Liverpool to return to Douglas.

Today’s weather forecasts suggested conditions would be suitable for Viking to sail. However, once at sea, it was clear that weather conditions had deteriorated and were not consistent with those forecast.

The Ship’s Master made the decision to return to the harbour in the interests of passenger safety.

The Ben-my-Chree was not due to sail this evening, however the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has made special arrangements for this vessel to take to Heysham those passengers originally booked on the 15.00 sailing to Liverpool. It is anticipated that the Ben-my-Chree will depart Douglas Harbour by 19.30.

All passengers directly affected have been advised of this additional service. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has also arranged foot passenger transport to Liverpool via coach from Heysham Port.

Inward passengers have also been kept informed of the situation. Passengers that require transportation from Liverpool to Heysham have been asked to report to the Liverpool terminal at 21.00 and the coaches are scheduled to leave at 21.30. The Ben-my-Chree is scheduled to depart Heysham at 02.15 British Summer Time (or 01.15 GMT).

For further information, please contact our reservations centre on 0871 2221333 or 01624 661661.