Discover the Ben-My-Chree: Ratings & Maritime News

On August 20, 2025, the ferry 'Ben-My-Chree' encountered unexpected technical difficulties while docked in Douglas. The vessel was a backup option, activated due to the main ferry, 'Manxman,' suffering a fault reported during its overnight journey from Heysham. Smoke was first detected in 'Manxman’s' machinery space on the morning of August 19, prompting safety protocols that safely escorted the ferry back to Douglas for necessary inspections. The 'Ben-My-Chree' was initially scheduled to depart Douglas at 8:30 a.m., but due to the ongoing technical issues with its crucial firefighting systems, it faced a significant delay and ultimately set sail only after 12:30 p.m. To accommodate waiting passengers during this period, the Steam Packet Company generously provided free tea and coffee. This disruption was compounded by repairs on the fire drencher pipework within the vehicle deck, damaged during freight loading activities at Heysham Port the previous night. Unfortunately, the needed permanent repairs in Douglas took longer than expected, further impacting the ferry schedule for the day.

In a recent session of the House of Keys held on November 5, Treasury Minister Alex Allinson MHK revealed that modernizing the 'Ben my Chree' ferry could come with a hefty price tag of £18 million. Allinson noted that this significant investment would not be recuperated over the ferry's remaining operational lifespan. The 'Ben my Chree' is currently facing challenges due to outdated systems that compromise both efficiency and reliability. Minister Allinson detailed essential upgrades needed to elevate the ferry to contemporary standards, which include a major overhaul of passenger accommodation and several other critical systems. During the meeting, Chris Thomas MHK raised concerns regarding the financial figures provided by Allinson, advocating for an independent assessment of the projected costs. Allinson specified that upgrading the backup vessel's propulsion system alone would range between £8 million and £10 million. To meet safety and comfort standards comparable to those of the ferries 'Manannan' and 'Manxman', the passenger accommodation would require an investment of approximately £3.5 million. Furthermore, the current lift, which is outdated and unreliable, would need to be replaced at an estimated cost of £1.5 million. Additionally, replacing the existing life-saving equipment is projected to cost around £2 million. An investment of £1 million would also be necessary for a new antifoul paint system, with updates to the control systems requiring an additional £250,000. While the proposed upgrades promise to enhance the ferry's reliability and operational efficiency, the financial implications raise questions about the feasibility of such an extensive modernization given it exceeds the vessel's future value.

On November 1, 2024, the 'Ben-my-Chree' docked back in Douglas following a series of unsuccessful berthing trials at various Scottish ports. This vessel, primarily designated as a backup for the 'Manxman', was engaged in trials with CalMac to evaluate its potential for service on the Arran route. Unfortunately, the assessments at Troon and Brodick were deemed unsatisfactory. Previously, the 'Ben-my-Chree' had undertaken berthing tests at the newly established ferry terminal in Liverpool before proceeding to Scotland. During the trials conducted on October 31, although the ferry successfully managed to dock at Brodick, it did so while operating at the limits of its safety parameters. Experts noted that only 'completely benign conditions' would allow for reliable docking, ultimately leading to the decision against chartering the vessel for the Arran service. These trials occur at a challenging time for CalMac, whose fleet has faced significant stress since the 'Caledonian Isles', the principal ferry serving Arran, was sidelined in February and is not anticipated to return until mid-November. In the interim, CalMac has arranged to charter the catamaran 'Alfred' to keep the Arran route operational, incurring an estimated monthly expense of £1 million, as reported by BBC Scotland. Additionally, the much-anticipated 'Glen Sannox', currently being constructed at the Ferguson shipyard along the Clyde, was expected to be handed over two weeks ago but is now projected to be ready for service in January.

Starting October 30, 2022, ferry services to the Isle of Man will experience interruptions as the iconic vessel 'Ben-my-Chree' prepares for essential repairs. The maintenance period at Cammell Laird's facility is expected to last around six days, during which the 'Manannan' will serve as a replacement, operating daytime crossings between Douglas and Heysham. This change marks a shift from the 'Manannan's' typical summer route to Liverpool, as it continues its service until November 7. Additionally, 'Arrow', a recently acquired ferry by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, will manage the overnight freight sailings during this period. Consequently, the regular evening passenger sailings from the Isle of Man to Lancashire, along with the overnight return service, will be suspended. Further information regarding the specifics of the repair requirements has yet to be disclosed.