Businesses feel strain from 25 percent increase in Steam Packet freight fuel surcharge

Chamber calls for government intervention as freight costs rise across the Island

The Chamber of Commerce says local businesses are experiencing real pain as a result of the 25 percent fuel surcharge introduced for freight customers by the Steam Packet Company in April.

Chamber Chief Executive Rebecca George says the vast majority of respondents to the latest survey would like to see government intervention to support a reduction in the surcharge.

She says she appreciates the increased cost burden faced by the Steam Packet, but believes government - as owners of the company - must intervene.

Simon Richardson has this report:

You can find more details about the survey here.

In response, the Steam Packet says fuel costs are double what they were in late December. 

The company points out that the fuel surcharge has existed for over 20 years under the original User Agreement and more recent Sea Services Agreement, and is a non-profit mechanism independently verified by the DoI.

Its statement in full: "The Steam Packet Company is facing fuel costs that are around double what they were in late December 2025. While global fuel markets remain volatile, the latest fuel surcharge change has had only a modest effect on freight and passenger fares, increasing standard fares by less than 2%.

The fuel surcharge has existed for over 20 years either under the original User Agreement and the more recent, Tynwald approved, Sea Services Agreement. It’s a non‑profit mechanism which is independently verified by the Department of Infrastructure.

Fuel surcharges are a common measure adopted by the travel industry to help protect service delivery during periods of fuel price unpredictability.

The Company remains focused on balancing cost pressures with its long‑standing commitment to residents and businesses.”