We understand that the extension of Manxman's dry dock programme may affect customers' travel plans. To help keep everyone informed, this page below provides the latest updates in one place.
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company’s Fleet Operations Manager has just returned from a successful visit to Denmark, observing specialist machining to repair the shafts and liners removed from Manxman.
Scott Wright, who served as Chief Engineer aboard the Company’s vessels before being appointed Fleet Operations Manager was in Hirtshals, Northern Denmark, at the works of Marine Shaft A/S, specialist marine engineers equipped to handle components of this size and recognised as one of the leading experts in the field.
Getting the 18m long shafts to Denmark by road and ferry was itself a logistical challenge. With both now nearing completion of works to restore them to specification they will shortly return to the UK where the complex process of reinstallation will begin.
Managing Director of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, Brian Thomson, said:
“The management team working on this critical project has kept myself and the Board regularly updated on progress of repairs to Manxman. As we have said from the start, these repairs and returning Manxman to service is the Company’s first priority and while a timely resolution matters to everyone, nothing can be allowed to compromise safety. We are confident the repairs undertaken are to the highest standard and will enable Manxman to return to service and deliver the high level of reliability she has previously shown. Finding the right partner was central to that. Very few sites anywhere are equipped for work of this scale and high-quality engineering, and Marine Shaft are the right partner to deliver these specialist repairs.”
Scott Wright added: “From our first approach it has been clear how much Marine Shaft share our priorities — precision engineering and workmanship, full compliance with safety standards, and a determination to complete these repairs on time”.
Manxman entered dry dock for scheduled maintenance and inspections in July. Shortly afterwards it was found that the drive shafts, liners and associated components had experienced wear that required significant repair, extending Manxman’s time out of service. Freight vessel Arrow has been recalled from charter to provide additional freight resilience while Ben-my-Chree maintains passenger services.
