The Steam Packet's freight vessel Arrow is set to enter dry dock for repairs, dealing a fresh blow to the ferry operator while its flagship Manxman remains out of service until at least the end of September.

The Arrow entered dry dock at Cammell Laird/Balaena in Birkenhead on Sunday after an oil leak was identified in one of the vessel's controllable pitch propeller systems.

Repair work is expected to take five working days, with Arrow due to return to service on August 16.

Despite Arrow's temporary withdrawal, the company says freight services will continue throughout the week using Ben-my-Chree, ensuring the continued movement of essential goods to and from the island.

In a statement, the Steam Packet said: ‘The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company can confirm that freight vessel Arrow will enter dry dock following the identification of an oil leak from one of the vessel's control pitch propeller systems.

‘Repairs and associated works will be carried out during the dry dock period. The works are scheduled to be completed within five working days, with Arrow expected to return to service on Sunday, August 16.

‘Freight services will continue throughout the week using Ben-my-Chree, ensuring the continued movement of essential goods to and from the Isle of Man.’

The announcement comes at a particularly difficult time for the ferry operator, with Manxman undergoing an extended period in dry dock after additional work was identified during planned maintenance.

More than 25,000 passengers have already been affected by revised sailing schedules, with the Steam Packet completing timetable amendments through to September 2 while continuing to contact customers whose bookings have changed.

The company has previously confirmed it is exploring the possibility of chartering another vessel, saying it is assessing the availability and suitability of potential ships to support services for the remainder of the summer season.