The Steam Packet has launched a public consultation on the idea of relocating its Northern Ireland sailings from Belfast to Larne.

Berthing trials have been conducted with the Ben-my-Chree and Manannan as part of what the ferry operator described as ’general contingency planning’.

But now it has confirmed it is investigating the merits of relocating to Larne.

It says the port of Larne could provide a service for heavier vehicles such as vans, motorhomes, coaches and freight that can’t use the linkspan at Albert Quay, Belfast.

Passengers who have used the Douglas-Belfast route are being urged to respond to a public survey which is available online and is expected to run for three weeks.

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said: ’We constantly review our routes to ensure the best passenger experience possible is offered.

’We have identified that Larne could deliver an enhanced service compared with the Belfast facilities, but we want to know what our passengers think.

’We would like anyone who has used the route, or might intend to, to share their views. We want to hear all opinions on Albert Quay and Larne, good and bad, as passenger feedback will be a central factor in the final decision.’

Larne port, which is already used by P&O Ferries for passenger services and has been used during the TT in the past, is on the Antrim Coast, a 30-minute drive from Belfast.

It offers passenger facilities including a coffee shop, newsagents, cash machine and car parking, and is next to a range of restaurants, shops and a supermarket.

There are bus, coach and train services operated from the port for travel across Northern Ireland and into the republic.

Relocating Belfast services to Larne would lead to reduced sailing times between Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, as well as allowing some schedules to be revised to offer more convenient departure timings from Douglas.

Importantly, Larne’s dedicated harbour facilities would allow for much larger vehicles to be accommodated than can use the linkspan at Albert Quay.

Mr Woodward said: ’The type of vehicle traffic we can carry on the Northern Ireland route is restricted by the facilities in Belfast.

’At Larne we would be able to look at opening up travel for larger vans, motorhomes and coaches, which could help boost tourism to the Isle of Man as well as being a benefit to island residents.

’We would also be able to look at providing new freight capability between Douglas and Northern Ireland, which could be a boost for businesses too.’

You can find the survey at at www.islandglobalresearch.com/steampacketsurvey