Sailings have been cancelled today due to a "critical safety issue" on the Ben-my-Chree.
The vessel's starboard steering gear has developed a fault meaning the rudder will not respond reliably to inputs from the bridge.
The Steam Packet Company says it cannot sail until the issue is identified and repaired - as a result sailings to and from Birkenhead have been scrapped.
It says due to the time of year it could be some time before the problem is fixed - the Steam Packet is now trying to get Manannan out of her winter overhaul and back into service.
The MV Arrow will be used to operate freight sailings - a further update is expected later today.
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