Steam Packet chief apologises after sailings cancelled

Brian Thomson admits communication ‘good’, but ‘not good enough’

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company’s Managing Director has apologised to passengers following a series of cancellations caused by technical issues on its vessels.

Fourteen sailings have been affected since late July, including 12 on the Manannan and two on the Manxman yesterday.

Passengers have described being left out of pocket and disappointed by the disruption and lack of communication.

Brian Thomson told Manx Radio the company had initially prioritised rebooking passengers and preparing the Ben-my-Chree as a contingency vessel, which delayed its response to media requests.

He admitted there had been a “glitch” where customers booking through third parties did not receive cancellation alerts, calling it “not good enough” and pledging to work with organisations to improve communication.

Mr Thomson says every case for compensation will be considered individually, but accepted responsibility for the disruption.

He acknowledged the service had fallen short of lifeline expectations, apologised to customers, and said the company was working to restore reliability:

Manx Radio has since spoken with passenger Colin Ring, who had previously expressed frustration at being stranded.

He thanked the company for putting on an extra sailing to return affected travellers to the Island, adding that although he had incurred hotel and food costs, he was confident the Steam Packet would reimburse him.

“We’re quite pleased. We’ve got home, we’re very tired, but that’s not just me.”