The Steam Packet's newest ferry Manannan was forced to turn back from this morning’s Liverpool trip.

The fast craft suffered what the company is describing as 'a minor technical issue'.

Passengers were brought back to Douglas and transferred on to the Snaefell.

Some Manx Grand Prix visitors now face a longer wait to get home as there isn't enough room on Snaefell for all those who were on board the Mananan.

Marian Kenny reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

The Steam Packet says the captain of the Manannan took the decision to return to Douglas in the interests of safety, given weather conditions in the River Mersey.

Back in Douglas the smaller fast craft Snaefell was made ready.

But the vessel couldn't accomodate all Manannan's passengers and vehicles. Those left behind are being offered a crossing on either the Manannan, due back in service later, at 4.30 this afternoon, or the Ben-my-Chree sailing at 7.45pm.

Knock-on delays mean the scheduled return from Liverpool at 11.30 has been put back to approximately 3pm this afternoon. There is sufficient capacity on Snaefell to accomodate all those booked on the crossing.

This evenings sailings on the Dublin route may be delayed and an update is due later.