Manxman Celebration Cruise is great success
It was a great pleasure to welcome local businesses, producers, charitable organisations and other community stalwarts on board our flagship Manxman over the weekend in a celebration of all things Manx to coincide with the first anniversary of its entry into service.
The ‘Manxman Celebration Cruise’, which took place on Sunday, September 15th, saw over 600 passengers enjoy a cruise along the east coast of the island down to Port Erin taking in spectacular views of the beautiful coastline in the sunshine.
Manxman was built from the start to serve the Isle of Man’s community, not just through the maintenance of the lifeline service to Heysham, but as a showcase of everything that makes the island unique. The special day was made even more enjoyable with the presence of so many talented and dedicated producers and suppliers, sharing their wares and their stories with the cruise passengers.
“We’re really pleased with the fantastic turnout and to have received positive feedback from everyone onboard,” said Brian Thomson, IOMSPC Managing Director. “This cruise was a celebration not only of Manxman’s anniversary but also of the local community and passengers who have supported our lifeline ferry services and we’d like to thank our passengers and partners for their support, enthusiasm and appreciation. Our mission has always been to serve the community, and we are looking forward to making more positive contributions in the future.”
Passengers were also treated to music from Yn Chruinnaght Celtic Festival’s Committee Band, artists whose work was commissioned for the vessel. and were able to sample and purchase items from local vendors, including Foraging Vintners, The Fynoderee Distillery, Ventosus Micro Winery, Soaral, Manx Moos, Lush Bakes, Element Isle among many more.
Guests were also able to hear about the great work carried out by local organisations and IOMSPC partners Riding for the Disabled, Vagabonds Ladies Rugby Team, FC Isle of Man and others. The team from Riding for Disabled Association was also able to give a preview of the newly filmed production showcasing the effect of their work in the community, supported by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.
The Fynoderee Distillery 
Riding for the Disabled Association 
IOM Creameries and Ventosus 
Lush Bakes 
Yn Chruinnaght performing by the Bar
Since its first passenger crossing on August 17, 2023, Manxman has transported thousands of residents, tourists, and freight between Heysham and the Isle of Man, becoming an integral part of the local transport network.
Many of the participants and guests on the cruise were experiencing Manxman for the first time. Enjoying the spacious public lounges, the comfortable seating and the carefully thought through accessibility features, there was also a wide appreciation of the stable and smooth sailing of the award-winning Manxman. The vessel is rightly considered the one of the finest ferries currently operating in the British Isles and offers increased capacity and modern amenities and facilities for island residents and visitors. It is the largest, and most well-equipped vessel in the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company’s history.
Find out more about Manxman here and book your sailing here.