Sailings cancelled as Ophelia approaches

80mph gusts possible Monday evening

Forecast high winds over the next 24 hours have already led to the cancellation of some sailings.

The remnants of Hurricane Ophelia are set to batter the Island tomorrow (Mon) and into early Tuesday morning.

The Met Office says gusts of 60 to 70 mph are expected by Monday evening, with a small risk of 70 to 80 mph, causing travel disruption and possibly some damage.

Very large waves will also break onto exposed areas after dark, producing dangerous conditions for a while along parts of the coast. 

Tomorrow's 2.15am Ben my Chree sailing from Heysham is now scheduled to leave at 1am, with passengers asked to check in no later than midnight thirty.

The return sailing from Douglas to Heysham is due to depart at 7am - an hour and three quarters earlier than normal, passengers there being asked to check in by 6.30am

The afternoon sailing from Heysham is now set for a 12.30 departure.

The Manannan's sailings to Liverpool tomorrow afternoon have now been cancelled, as has tomorrow evening's Heysham service.