CHILDREN from Victoria Road School in Castletown enjoyed a visit to the Isle of Man Steam Packet recently.

They were shown round the Sea Terminal, Steam Packet offices and the fastcraft Manannan.

Victoria Road deputy headteacher Rachel Ashley said: "The children, parents and staff thoroughly enjoyed the visit and it has provided us with lots of ideas to use in class.

"The children loved being able to make their own booking, try on the life jackets, visit the bridge and see around the car deck.

"They are also very proud of their personal boarding cards – and the visit from the Police dog was another highlight!

"As one of the children said, 'It was the best trip ever'.

"The Steam Packet staff who showed us around and spoke to the children made the day really special – we felt very privileged to be able to find out about and see lots of exciting things."

David Findlay, the Steam Packet's director of marketing and communications said: "We're always happy to welcome schools and groups to show how things happen behind the scenes, which, of course, we have to fit in around our sailing schedules.

"These visits present lots of ideas for helping children learning about the Island's transport.

"The children always seem to enjoy the visits, particularly going onboard and seeing areas of the vessel not normally accessible, such as the bridge – although I'm sure many of the parents and teachers who accompany them enjoy it just as much!"