Woodward confirms bow-thruster problem

The Steam Packet has confirmed the Ben-my-Chree is currently operating with a single bow-thruster, after problems developed with the second.

The vessel sailed to Heysham last night (Monday), but was unable to dock because the weather was worse than forecast, with high winds. She had to return to the Island and sailed again at 8.45am.

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward says the loss of the thruster would only be a problem in particularly bad weather conditions, when it may be necessary to use a tug to dock.

He is reassuring customers the Ben shouldn't be affected during the busy TT period (play audio file):

It's likely the Ben will have to spend a couple of days in dry dock after TT fortnight, and a similar time out of service at the end of the holiday season, so the problem can be fixed.