On Air The Afternoon Show Chris Quirk | 3:00pm - 5:30pm

EVL still hoping for rival ferry service

A would-be rival to the Steam Packet Company says it’s still working to set up a ferry service between the Isle of Man and the UK.

Earlier this year Douglas-based Ellan Vannin Line was told by the Department of Infrastructure it wouldn’t use Douglas Harbour.

But the company says it’s still continuing to work hard to try to reverse the decision and set up a ferry company here.

Its chief executive Captain Kurt Buchholz didn’t want to be interviewed, but confirmed meetings are still being held to resolve the problems.

Ellan Vannin Line had planned to buy ro-ro container vessel the MV Cometa a Norwegian shipping line to bring vehicles and freight to the Island.

But the deal went sour when the government said it wouldn’t grant permission for the commercial service to start up from Douglas.

Captain Buchholz says talks are still continuing in an effort to change the department’s mind and start up the service.

And he says he’s still hopeful he can compete with the Steam Packet Company soon.

 

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