Packet exploring new options
A new ferry route between the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland could begin in the near future, if Steam Packet berthing trials are a success.
The company has confirmed it's testing the Ben-my-Chree's capability to dock in the port of Larne.
There are currently four regular passenger crossings between Douglas and Belfast per week.
It's expected that a move to Larne would mean the end of that route.
Brendan O'Friel from passenger watchdog TravelWatch says there are a number of factors for the Packet to consider: