See the dramatic video from on board the Ben-My-Chree as it hits the King Edward pier in Douglas Harbour. Passenger Jason Cheetham caught the who event on camera.

The Steam Packet Company have released this statement

On arrival in Douglas Harbour this evening the Ben-my-Chree encountered significantly stronger than forecast easterly winds and the vessel made contact with the King Edward Pier.

 Engineers will work through the night to assess any damage and a diving inspection will be arranged during daylight hours.

 Once the wind had dropped Ben-my-Chree was able to safely berth alongside the King Edward Pier. There are no reported injuries to passengers or crew.

 This evening's sailing to Heysham at 1945 hours and the return departure from Heysham at 0215 hours Monday morning have been cancelled. A further update on daytime sailings on Monday will be made at 0800 hours.

 The Arrow will be brought to Manx waters tomorrow to ensure vital freight services can continue.

The Steam Packet Company are working to bring Manannan out of overhaul, so that she will be able to provide passenger services if needed.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward commented: ‘We apologise to our passengers whose travel plans have been disrupted as a result of this unfortunate incident. We will do all we can to minimise the disruption and to get services back to normal as soon as possible.’

We will post regular updates on the ‘Latest Sailings’ page of our website and our social media pages.