Douglas to Heysham crossings suspended Sunday as severe weather batters the Irish Sea

By ManxRadio Published 5 April 2026

Travellers planning to cross the Irish Sea on Sunday, 5 April are advised to check before heading to the ferry terminal. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has cancelled both the morning and afternoon Manxman sailings between Douglas and Heysham due to dangerous weather conditions forecast for the day.

Strong Winds Force Ferry Cancellations

The 8:30am departure from Douglas and its afternoon return service will not operate as planned. According to the Ronaldsway Met Office, gusts of up to 80mph are expected throughout the morning and early afternoon, with a risk of coastal overtopping in exposed areas. The good news? Conditions are forecast to ease as the day progresses.

All other scheduled sailings are currently expected to operate normally, though passengers are encouraged to monitor updates from the Steam Packet Company before travelling. Weather conditions on the Irish Sea can change rapidly, so checking the latest forecasts and ferry status is always recommended during the spring months.

Travel Tips for Ferry Passengers

  • Check the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company website for real-time sailing updates
  • Monitor the Ronaldsway Met Office forecast before your journey
  • Allow extra time for alternative travel arrangements if your sailing is affected
  • Consider rebooking on services later in the day when winds are expected to ease

If you're planning a trip to or from the Isle of Man, spring weather can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on forecasts and stay flexible with your travel plans to make the most of your visit to our beautiful island.

Source: Read full article on ManxRadio