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Before setting off
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company may be able to make special arrangements to help you, should you require assistance in any way. You can inform us by ticking the "Assistance*" box on page three of the booking process (page entitled "Passengers"). If you do not inform us when making your booking, please telephone on + 44 (0) 871 222 1 333.
You should note that, for those unable to walk, we advise the use of collapsible wheelchairs. For safety reasons, we are obliged to restrict the number of wheelchair bound passengers on any particular sailing at our discretion.
Wheelchair bound passengers can travel on board the Ben-my-Chree services to and from Heysham, with access to the passenger lounges from the vehicle deck via a lift.
Manannan has access to passenger lounges via a ramp forward and a lift at the stern door to the main passenger area. The main lounge has two tables designated for wheel chair users. There is a second lift to the reserved seating lounges from the main passenger deck.
Please indicate if assistance is required when making your booking.
We regret that Snaefell does not have a lift facility to accommodate wheelchair bound passengers. If you are unable to negotiate a flight of stairs on foot then please accept our apologies as we unfortunately cannot accept your booking.
For further information please contact our reservations centre on + 44 (0) 871 222 1 333 (calls cost 10p per minute from the UK and Isle of Man) or email iom.reservations@steam-packet.com.
The following guidelines have been compiled with the interests of all our passengers in mind, and dog owners in particular are asked to adhere to the code.
Ben-my-Chree
Please note that there may be designated areas for passengers with dogs. Dogs are not allowed in certain areas for hygiene reasons. Please keep your dog under control and wearing a collar and lead at all times when on board.
Please also try and prevent your dog from fouling in passenger lounges or other public areas. If the worst happens, clean up after your dog (poop scoops are available in an emergency from the Information Bureau). We request that you do not allow your dog to interfere with other passengers or block passageways. All seats are strictly for passenger use only. Stop your dog making unnecessary noise. Do not take your dog into areas where food or refreshments are being served or into the shop, bars or coffee lounge.
Snaefell and Manannan (Fast Ferries)
Animals may not be taken into the passenger accommodation. Motorists may leave their pets in the car during the crossing but are advised to ensure adequate ventilation.
Birds are an exception to this rule, please contact the reservations office for more information.
Guide dogs accompanying blind passengers will not be subject to these restrictions. Please note that there are some import restraints on pets other than cats and dogs, and if necessary certification is not provided to us, we may not be able to guarantee shipment as booked.
Certain areas on our vessels have been designated either smoking or non-smoking. We would ask that you observe the signs on board. Smoking is not allowed on the vehicle deck at any time.
Vehicle Dimensions
The size of the vehicle reserved and paid for is shown on your ticket or other accompanying literature. Please check that this is correct and inform us if it is not. If a vehicle presented at check-in exceeds the size (or weight) declared, we may not be able to carry it if the vessel is heavily booked. If we can, an excess fare may be payable.
Weight Limit
Snaefell can only carry vehicles up to 3 tonnes gross weight. Any vehicle thought to be heavier than this will be weighed to check that it is within this limit. In addition, there are also height limits on each of the different vessels. Please check that your vehicle height is compatible with the vessel on which you are travelling or we cannot guarantee shipment as ticketed.
Documentation
We suggest that you have the following documentation with you: Certificate of Insurance (including cover for your destination); Driving Licence or International Driving Permit; Vehicle Registration Document. If the car is not registered in your name, you should also have a letter of authority entitling you to use the vehicle.
Travelling to the Isle of Man
There are a large number of Disc parking zones on the Island. In these areas, parking is free for limited periods if a Disc is correctly displayed. Discs may be obtained free of charge - a stock is held on board our passenger vessels.
Vehicle security checks
You and your vehicle will pass through a security check point and you, your vehicle and its contents may be subject to a search, as required by law.
On the quayside
Loading vessels is a skilled operation and vehicles are selected according to height, width and length. If others board before you, be assured that you have not been overlooked.
On the deck
When you are directed to park your vehicle aboard the vessel would you please ensure that:
The handbrake is applied to all vehicles. Vehicles with Diesel Engines should be left in gear. Access to the vehicle decks in not permitted during the voyage. Please make sure you take anything you require from your vehicle prior to departure.
Smoking is prohibited on the car deck even when inside the vehicle for safety reasons.
Vehicles In Transit
All vehicles are carried subject to the Operating Company's Standard Conditions of Carriage as stated on the reverse of the Passenger/Car Ticket. Passengers are advised to arrange their own vehicle insurance. In the event of your vehicle sustaining damage on board, please advise a Ship's Officer at the time of the incident and in any case before leaving the vessel.