No need for passenger charters for TT 2009

The Steam Packet will be able to meet the full demand for sea services to and from the Isle of Man for TT 2009, from its own resources.

The company says the introduction of the new fastcraft Manannan means it won't be necessary to charter any passenger vessels.

However, the Viking will be ready to provide backup services, if required.

In his internet blog recently, Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said the company was provisionally assuming a start date of May 22 for Manannan, two weeks before TT race week.