Steam Packet will be handed the vessel officially on 10 May
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has announced the new flagship Manxman vessel has passed its sea trials with ‘flying colours’.
The ship was subject to numerous tests over a 10-day period checking its handling, manoeuvrability, fuel consumption and speed.
150 people were on board as the trials took place in the waters of the Korea Strait, between the South Korean mainland and the Japanese island of Tsushima.
The Manxman, which can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers and has 10-percent more space for vehicles and freight than the Ben-my-Chree, is the third in the Steam Packet Company’s fleet and will be officially christened at a dockside ceremony seven days before the handover.
It is thought the delivery voyage will take approximately 30 days.
The ship won’t travel straight to the Isle of Man – a final installation of equipment and artwork, commissioned by Island-based artists will be completed on the South Coast of England.
The new vessel is expected to depart from South Korea on 12 May.