THINK MOTORCYCLING, THINK ISLE OF MAN
Home to the world famous TT races founded in 1907 and the World Championship in 1949, today known as MotoGP, the Isle of Man boasts a rich history in racing.
With much more than the ‘Tourist Trophy’ to offer the island provides plenty for bikers to experience and enjoy when they visit the historic home of motorcycling. With some fantastic Motorbike Offers available, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is the ideal way to travel with your bike to the Island.
Motorsport on the Isle of Man really needs no introduction with the TT arguably being the world’s most famous road race. However the TT is just one of many thrilling events held throughout the year.
If you visit in August you can experience the Classic TT celebrating the heritage of motorcycling on the Island and the Manx Grand Prix where many of today and tomorrow’s stars race modern machines around the famous Mountain Course.
Bring your motorbike on board and pack everything you’ll need to start your adventure, as there are no extra luggage fees to worry about. With a choice of comfortable lounges you can stretch out your legs and unwind with a hot meal and drink from the café. Before you know it you’ll soon be riding off and enjoying the same roads as your racing heroes.
TT RACES
For two weeks every year, the sights and sounds of real road racing fill the Island as thousands of fans arrive to watch their heroes race at speeds approaching 200mph just inches from the hedges and walls of the legendary 37¾-mile TT Mountain course.
SOUTHERN 100 RACES
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company International Southern 100 Road Races take place in July around the Billown circuit. Famous for being ‘the friendly races’, this meeting features a great mix of classes, including superbikes and sidecars.
Just like the TT, you can sit right on the edge of the circuit, and all within a short walk of the centre of Castletown. The harbour town, dominated by the impressive Castle Rushen, is well worth a visit at the end of the day’s racing, so you can sample the local beers, get a bite to eat or just soak up the historic charm.
SOMETHING FOR THE OFF ROADERS
The Isle of Man has more than 120km of extensive countryside trails that are suitable for off-road vehicles, pedestrians, mountain bikes and horse riders.
The trails, known as green lanes, are clearly marked with a sign displaying a motorbike and a horse and are, in mainly, easily accessible from public roads so you’ll be able to easily get off the beaten track.
MUSEUMS
You may be looking for an indoor attraction during your visit, and there are plenty of museums perfect for bike fans and petrol heads.
The Isle of Man Motor Museum, which opened in Jurby in 2015, features a collection of over 250 unique vehicles from around the world, including classic cars and motorcycles; rarely seen private motorcycles and the steam collection.
Kirk Michael is home to the A.R.E. Motorcycle Collection, featuring more than 100 classic bikes.
You can also find two, three and four-wheeled machinery from the past at the Manx Transport Heritage Museum in Peel, Jurby Transport Museum and the Manx Museum in Douglas.
AVOID THE BUSY TIMES
Planning a trip outside one of the busy race festivals will give you time to explore at your own pace, and discover more of the delights the Island has to offer. It doesn’t mean you’ll have to miss out on the racing, as there are other action-packed events to choose from.
The Pre-TT Classic is a must for anyone who wants to see older machines in action, while the Post TT Races are another chance to watch a range of motorcycles, and sometimes a few TT stars, racing on the Billown Circuit on the outskirts of Castletown.
GETTING AROUND
With our year-round sailings, you can bring your motorcycle over whenever you choose, and set off for an unforgettable journey.