IOM Steam Packet

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company can boast at being the oldest service in the world, continually operating since 1830. Prior to this there were several services to the Isle of Man, which supported the smuggling trade, which in turn caused losses in tax collection for the British Government. In 1765 the British Government purchased the Isle of Man, and commenced a ferry service to support the Garrison. Steamer services first commenced in 1815, taking 10 hours to travel from Liverpool to Douglas.

Today, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is owned by the Steam Packet Group whom has long term investors including Macquarie Bank and several pension companies.

The Isle of Mann Steam Packet Company now carries over 170,000 vehicles and over 600,000 passengers annually. Freight drivers of larger vehicle more than 8m in length, will have to ship via the Ro-Pax service (ferries capable of carrying freight and passengers) from Heysham – Douglas taking 4hours 15mins. Passengers can take their choice of the Heysham, Liverpool, Dublin or Belfast fast craft service which takes between 2h 30m to 2h 55m depending on which service (see note below). Onboard service for freight drivers and passengers is of a very high standard including cars, cafeteria and club lounge (available on the fast craft).

For further information about Isle of Mann Steam Packet Company or Isle of Mann Steam Packet Company freight ferry services, please contact our Customer Service Team on +44 (0) 844 847 9000.