Displaying items by tag: Highest since 2016

1st February 2024

Ferry Passenger Numbers On Isle of Man Routes in 2023 Highest for 16 Years

Ferry passenger numbers carried by Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for last year, were the highest for 16 years.

Figures from the operator which has routes between Douglas and Heysham, Belfast, Dublin and Liverpool, reveal more than 623,000 passengers were carried on board in 2023. In addition last year there were over 196,000 vehicles loaded on and off for onward transport.

Also last year, in August, the Steam Packet’s new flagship, Manxman entered service on the core Douglas-Heysham route in which traffic figures from the new ferry were also included for last year.

The Isle of Man-England route is the only year-round operated service of the company’s four route network which also connect Northern Ireland and the Republic.

Statistics also show the highest numbers seen by the Steam Packet took place in 2007, the year that marked the TT's 100th anniversary.

After the challenges faced during the Covid pandemic, the Manx Government owned company has since seen that the numbers reflect a "positive trend" forward.

There was a rise in 2023 of more than 27,000 passengers when compared to the previous year and an increase of more than 3,500 vehicles than in 2022.

The previous highest traffic figures were during that TT centenary year, when the Steam Packet carried 632,942 passengers and 197,745 vehicles.

More from BBC News also on Merseyside developments.

Published in Ferry

Tagged under

About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.