Ferry passengers looking to sail away in the first week of 2009 will face some unexpected disruption.

The Ben my Chree is going into dry-dock for some unscheduled, but vital repairs.

Earlier this year the ship's propellers got caught in some fishing gear which caused significant damage.

The Ben will be out of action between Tuesday, January 6 and Friday, January 9 and her daytime sailings between the Isle of Man and Heysham will be covered by the Viking.

During that time there won't be any overnight services, but a special ship will be brought in to carry freight.

Steam Packet CEO Mark Woodward says the unplanned maintenance work is made all the more frustrating because it's been caused by visiting fishing boats putting equipment indiscriminately in the approaches to Douglas Harbour.

But he hopes that choosing to do the work at a typically quiet time will minimise disruption for passengers, and avoid the need for further lengthy repairs later on.

All affected customers will be contacted and offered alternative travel arrangements or a full refund.