Steam Packet apology after sailing disruption

"The weather was really against us this weekend" said the Steam Packet.

The Steam Packet Company has apologised to passengers after fog caused extensive timetable disruption over the weekend. 

The bad sailing weather meant the Ben-my-Chree couldn't dock in Heysham on Saturday or Sunday lunchtime.

The vessel was forced to sail back to Douglas on both days.

The Steam Packet said all passengers onboard were offered free hot and cold drinks.

Meanwhile, passengers stranded in Heysham were helped to find accomodation in local hotels and the terminal was kept open through the night.

A spokesman said it's a busy time of year and while most sailings this week are already fully booked, as many passengers as possible will be offered an alternative sailing.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Managing Director Brian Thomson said: ‘Our team has worked incredibly hard to support affected passengers and arrange additional vehicle space for some of those that have been unable to travel over the weekend.

‘Obviously, we attempted to transport passengers to Heysham with the caveat we may be unable to dock and that is what occurred until Sunday night’s sailing when the fog finally eased.

‘We apologise to all passengers who have had their travel plans affected and can assure you that we are doing everything we can to minimise the onward impact during the week ahead".