Steam Packet records 8% rise in ferry passengers

The Isle of Man Steam Packet company has recorded an 8% increase in the number of passengers travelling in 2025.

The firm said that throughout the year it carried more than 680,000 passengers up from about 625,000 in 2024.

Having operated 2,144 sailings , the Steam Packet said it had "put its resources into growth" following a fare overhaul in late 2024, which included free travel for children under 16.

It also reiterated that following an increased service to Ireland, in the coming year it would further improve those links with the Ben-my-Chree to be dedicated to serving Lairne three times a week from July.

That would see the first interior refitting in over a decade for the former flagship vessel which has been used as a reserve ferry since being replaced by Manxman in 2023, the firm said.

There would also be 200 more sailings between the island and England in the coming year with 2,239 crossings scheduled to either Liverpool or Heysham as regular use of the Ben-my-Chree freed up Manxman and Manannan.

Changes to fares, which also included a 10% reduction in flexi fares as well as rates for driven and unaccompanied freight vehicles brought into line, would also be maintained in the coming year.

A public consultation into a new vessel to replace the Manannan in 2030 has now concluded, the ferry operator confirmed.

"The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has its eye firmly on the future and building a fleet and service the Isle of Man can truly be proud of, and one that will bring the widest economic and social benefits," the firm said.

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