Cruise passengers visiting the Isle of Man this week experienced unexpected changes to their travel plans after power lines serving two of the island's iconic railways were damaged. The incident, which occurred on Monday, 8 June, affected excursions for visitors aboard the Star Pride, which docked in Douglas with more than 300 people onboard.

What Happened to the Railways?

A road vehicle incident on New Road in Laxey caused damage to power lines serving both the Manx Electric Railway and the Snaefell Mountain Railway. The road was closed to allow removal of debris, forcing authorities to temporarily suspend services on both heritage railways.

Cruise passengers who had booked excursions on these railways had to curtail their trips and return to Douglas earlier than planned. The Department of Infrastructure worked quickly to manage the situation and ensure visitor safety.

Current Service Status

• The Manx Electric Railway has resumed full service following the incident
• The Snaefell Mountain Railway remains suspended as of Tuesday, 9 June
• Tour groups scheduled for today have been offered alternative travel packages
• The Douglas Bay Horse Trams are operating a special service as an alternative attraction

Support for Affected Visitors

Rather than leaving cruise passengers disappointed, the Department of Infrastructure ensured that tour groups affected by the disruptions were offered alternative experiences. The iconic Douglas Bay Horse Trams stepped in to provide a special service, giving visitors another chance to explore the island's charming coastal attractions and heritage experiences.

For those planning a cruise visit to the Isle of Man, this incident highlights the importance of flexible itineraries when exploring our vintage railways. The island's transport heritage remains a major draw for visitors—and these beloved attractions continue to deliver memorable experiences.

Source: Read full article on ManxRadio