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Introduction
Description
The history of Britain as a maritime nation is rich and varied, and the ferry trade is no exception. The Manxman is the last ship of her type left in the British waters; a floating memory of a bygone era when shipbuilding drove the British economy. Although her basic design dates back to the 1930’s, she was craftsman built in 1955 for the world’s oldest and most distinguished ferry operator – The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. She survived to be the last traditional steam turbine, passenger-only vessel to operate in European waters, serving the Steam Packet until 1982. All of her sisters and consorts have since gone to the breakers but the Manxman was saved. She has subsequently had several ‘adventures’: some good, most not so.
This is the intriguing story of a ship famed for her elegance and luxury, who when left to rust became a symbol of an industry in decline. It tells the tale of her building, career in service, survival and the fight for her restoration. The video contains previously unseen archive film, photographs from collectors and contemporary footage from on-board the vessel herself. It also features exclusive interviews with the personalities who have shaped the history of the Manxman and the Isle of Man shipping industry in general.
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