Reserve Ferry Chartered for Cargo Operations

A passenger ferry, previously a flagship vessel, has been leased to a Swedish company to assist in addressing a backlog of freight. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company kept the Ben-my-Chree as a reserve vessel after the Manxman commenced operations in August 2023. The state-owned company has now verified that Stena Line has chartered the vessel for at least 14 days to conduct voyages between Heysham and Dublin. According to the Steam Packet, the MV Arrow would remain accessible for the island, and the Ben-my-Chree could be recalled if necessary during this timeframe. Commencing on 16 December, the charter was initiated to assist Stena Line in managing its operations following the temporary closure of Holyhead Port. The Steam Packet stated that the Manxman would maintain its regular schedule for services to Heysham, Belfast, and Liverpool, concurrently with the MV Arrow undertaking extra freight journeys over the Christmas season. The Steam Packet indicated that the current arrangements offered “strategic resilience” during a demanding time for businesses on the Isle of Man, guaranteeing that “lifeline services are delivered”. An extension option for the charter was available if necessary, and Steam Packet personnel would operate the Ben-my-Chree throughout the charter period, the company noted. Previously, in October, proposals for the ferry operator CalMac to charter the 125m (410 ft) Ben-my-Chree to alleviate strain on Scotland’s West coast ferry services were discontinued after berthing trials proved unsuccessful. The Steam Packet affirmed that the charter adhered to the Sea Services Agreement, incorporating a provision to recall the vessel to the Steam Packet with four days’ notice “if required at any point”. The company had previously indicated its intention to sell the reserve vessel, citing the substantial expenses associated with its upkeep, but was awaiting a governmental decision regarding these matters.