The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has announced changes to four Liverpool ferry sailings in November because of ‘tidal and operational issues’.

The adjustments affect the Ben-my-Chree's Liverpool to Isle of Man departures on November 7, 14, 21 and 28.

On each of those dates, the ferry will now leave Liverpool at 1.30pm instead of the previously scheduled 7pm.

The earlier departures mean the sailings are no longer suitable for passengers who have booked day trips to Liverpool on those dates.

The Steam Packet said the changes were also necessary to maintain its core Heysham passenger and freight services while repairs to the Manxman continue.

The Ben-my-Chree is currently helping to maintain those services, while the Arrow continues to operate freight sailings.

Passengers affected by the Liverpool changes will be able to rebook onto the 1.45am Heysham to Isle of Man sailing.

The company is also arranging coach transport from Liverpool to Heysham for foot passengers wishing to use that alternative service.

However, customers must book their coach transfer in advance when making changes to their ferry reservation.

The Steam Packet said its reservations team would contact affected passengers directly, working through bookings in travel-date order, to help arrange alternative journeys.

Anyone unable to find a suitable alternative sailing will be entitled to a full refund.

Meanwhile, work to repair the Manxman is continuing.

The vessel is now in dry dock at Balaena Birkenhead, where its two propulsion shafts, liners and bearings are being refitted following repairs in Denmark.

Once the reassembly work has been completed, the Manxman will undergo sea trials before returning to passenger service.

The Steam Packet is targeting a return to service no later than the end of November, although the vessel could resume operations sooner if repairs and testing are completed successfully.