Steam Packet wanted to be 'certain' before issuing statement, says MD

Manxman to be out of service until late September

The Steam Packet wanted to be 'certain' of the issues facing the Manxman before issuing a statement to the public.

The company says whilst it doesn't 'know 100 percent' what caused it, it can confirm the vessel's propulsion shaft bearings 'have sustained wear'.

The three-year-old boat - which cost taxpayers £80 million - will now be out of action until late September as a result.

You can read more here.

Today's update from the company came following repeated calls from the public for more information about what was wrong with the boat.

Brian Thomson is the managing director: