The Steam Packet's new vessel Manannan completed her maiden Irish Sea voyage with passengers today, leaving Douglas for Liverpool just before 7.30am.

The fast craft was brought over from Tasmania a year ago and has been refitted in Britain, after previously being used as a ferry and for military purposes.

Manx Radio's Alex Brindley, who was onboard for the inaugural trip, believes there will be an official naming ceremony at a later date: