the Steam Packet has confirmed its chartered an extra vessel.

The company is to operate the fast craft Emmeraude France between the Isle of Man, Liverpool and Ireland.

That's in addition to the Super Sea Cat Two - with the new service running in time for this year's TT.


(MANX RADIO REPORT)

Ian, I think they have a bit of work to do on her yet! Probably be just about ready for next year! Quotes courtesy of Irish Sea Shipping.

"EMERAUDE FRANCE departed from Tilbury where she has been laid up at 08:25 on Wednesday March 28, 2007 and arrived at Douglas around 13:40 on March 29. Prior to departing Tilbury the vessel had been inspected on March 23 which revealed a number of deficiencies.

Deficiencies :

- Cargoes, Cargo securing manual

- Cargoes, Loading and unloading equipment

- Fire safety measures, Fire prevention structure

- Fire safety measures, Ventilation

- Life saving appliances , Lifeboats

- Life saving appliances , Other (life saving)

- MARPOL annex I, SOPEP

- Radio communications, VHF radio installation

- Safety of navigation, Nautical publications

- Safety of navigation, Nautical publications

- Structural safety, Closing devices/watertight doors

- Structural safety, Emergency lighting, batteries and switches

- Working spaces and accident prevention, Lighting"

Those of us booked on SS2 may have issues aswell!

"SUPERSEACAT TWO appears to have been suffering from engine problems this week which have resulted in reduced speed operation and delays."

Just so long as the ferry gets me and all my worldly goods to Douglas on saturday night, I am happy!
Seriously, I hope they get their act together and get everyone... especially competitors... across safely, timeously and without too much stress..