The new Isle of Man Steam Packet ferry, the Manxman which operates on the Douglas-Hesyham route will soon be able sail at full capacity which is 948 passengers.

Since entering service in August, the Steam Packet's £78m newbuild flagship of 24,161 gross tonnes has been sailing with a passenger capacity currently limited to 600 while final crew training was completed.

That's almost the capacity of the 630 passenger Ben-my-Chree, with the 1998 built ropax having had to step in to cover the Isle of Man-England crossings when wind-restrictions prevented the 237 car carrying Manxman from sailing.

Alex Allinson, the Manx Treasury Minister told a House of Keys sitting yesterday, that restrictions are about to change.

Manx Radio has the story along with a link to an audio clip of the Minister.