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Dry dock to fathom Ben vibration issue

Steam Packet to carry out 'precautionary inspection' ahead of TT

The Ben-my-Chree goes out of service tonight for tests to establish the cause of a propeller problem (16 May).  

Steam Packet bosses say they're sending the vessel for 'a precautionary inspection' ahead of the busy TT fortnight.

Ben-my-Chree recently completed her biennial overhaul - but has since developed a vibration issue while at sea.

The ferry will operate tonight's sailing to Heysham then head to dry dock in Merseyside early tomorrow (Tuesday 17).

She's due back in service on Thursday morning, for the overnight sailing from Heysham to Douglas.

Manannan will operate a daytime Heysham service while the Ben's out of action, meaning alterations to the fast craft's schedule.

Packet chief executive Mark Woodward says there's no concern over passenger or vessel safety - but with the busiest time of the year around the corner, the company can't afford to take any chances.

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