Ferry operator ready to welcome passengers to new £70m terminal

Liverpool’s new £70.6m Isle of Man ferry terminal at Princes Half Tide Dock will welcome its first passengers today (June 25).

The Manx government’s terminal was originally scheduled to open in May 2021, and then in June last year.

But the work was subject to delays, which led to cost increases, from an original estimate of £38m.

Work was impacted first by the pandemic, then the discovery of unexploded World War II bombs on the site, as well as issues reinforcing the river walls during construction.

Last week, a link bridge connecting the new terminal and Princes Dock was officially opened.

IoM Steam Packet Co

Funding of £340,000, including Section 106 payments, to upgrade the bridge was approved by Liverpool City Council last August.

The new facility is 800 metres away from the previous Isle of Man Steam Packet Company terminal at Liverpool’s Pier Head.

It offers better services, including a café in the departure lounge for passengers.

The first service at the new terminal will arrive from Douglas at around 17:45 today, with the return due to depart at 19:15.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said: “The safety of passengers and crew is our priority.

“Our hard working staff have been working round the clock to bring this new terminal to completion and ensure as smooth a transition as possible.

“As with sailing to any new facility, it will take time for our captains, crew and staff to become fully accustomed to the terminal, and rectify any teething issues.

“We’d like to thank passengers in advance for their patience and understanding while we get used to the new Liverpool terminal.”