Isle of Man ferry Ben-my-Chree has to abandon sailing
A ferry had to return to Douglas on the Isle of Man when engine trouble forced the cancellation of a sailing to Birkenhead after two and a half hours.
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said the 08:00 GMT sailing was abandoned after problems with one of its two engines.
Two hundred and forty passengers were on board the Ben-my-Chree with 140 due to make the return sailing.
The company has arranged alternative sailings and overnight accommodation.
Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: "The issue with one of the engines meant the Ben was operating on one engine and one bow thrust unit.
"Given the nature of berthing in Birkenhead, the Ship's Master took the decision, on safety grounds, not to attempt the berthing and return to Douglas."
The ship travelled slowly and arrived back in Douglas at 15:15 GMT.
Planned maintenance was due to take place on Saturday evening. A posting on the company website said the next anticipated sailing for the craft was the 08:00 to Birkenhead on Sunday.