Manxman return inches closer

Replacement bearing delivered from Germany

The Steam Packet says work to return flagship vessel Manxman to service has 'reached another important milestone'.

Replacement shaft bearings for the port side arrived this week from Hamburg and have been delivered to the vessel, along with engineers from the manufacturer. 

The remaining bearings are expected early next week.

On Monday, a crane lowered the shafts into position in the dock bottom to begin reassembling and aligning the shafting system. The company describes this as a highly technical stage requiring precise installation.

In its latest update, the Steam Packet said: "The arrival of these key components represents a further step forward in returning Manxman to service."

It added: "Work is continuing safely and efficiently, with teams across multiple disciplines working closely together to maintain momentum while upholding the highest standards throughout the repairs."

Manxman has been out of service since July after wear was found on its propulsion shafts during a routine dry docking. The repair bill has been estimated at around £5m, which the company said would be met from its own reserves.

The vessel is showing on Steam Packet schedules as returning to service on 1 December, subject to sea trials and regulatory inspection.