PASSENGERS travelling on this morning’s (Wednesday) Steam Packet sailing to Heysham endured a long wait before docking at 4pm.
The area was under a blanket of fog, which was more severe and prolonged than that forecast, and for a long time visibility remained less than that permitted by Heysham harbour regulations to allow safe berthing.
It was thought at one stage that the Ben-My-Chree may have to return to the island, but the vessel eventually managed to dock.
Referring to this evening’s sailing, a Steam Packet spokesperson said: ‘The forecast is that fog may continue to be a problem for the rest of the day. However, there will be a sailing from Douglas this evening and passengers should check in at 8pm.
‘Passengers should, however, be aware there is a possibility of a similar scenario, where berthing in Heysham may not be possible, and should adjust their travel arrangements accordingly.’