Cancellation of Manxman sailings caused by 'activation of sprinkler system'

Issue caused Thursday evening's Heysham crossing to be called off

Last night's sailings to and from Heysham were cancelled after the Manxman's sprinkler system was set off.

The Steam Packet Company says: 'Initial investigation suggests the system was triggered automatically following the failure of an air conditioning unit. The air conditioning unit released refrigerant gas that was detected by the vessel’s sensors, leading to the activation of the sprinklers.'

'The fire detection and suppression system functioned correctly in response to detecting gas. At no point were any passengers or crew in danger.'

Passengers had boarded the vessel in Douglas before the sailing was called off.

The Manxman departed for Heysham on schedule this morning (10 November).

This afternoon however the return journey from the Lancashire port has been brought forward by 15 minutes due to tidal restrictions.

The same applies if you're on the 2:15am return sailing overnight tonight - the Manxman will now depart at 2am, with passengers asked to check in no later than 1:15am.

On last night's cancellations, Steam Packet Managing Director Brian Thomson says: ‘In the first instance I’d like to apologise to all customers affected by the cancellations. Our reservations team have been working hard to make alternative arrangements where possible.’

‘While we fully understand the frustration, it is ultimately encouraging to know that the system seems to have functioned exactly as it was designed to. As always, safety is our first priority and we’re fully investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident in order to learn any relevant lessons for the future.’