There’s talk of the Isle of Man getting together with the Isle of Wight to address the ferries that both Islands rely on.
As you’ll be aware, the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner’s actions persuaded the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to look into the Isle of Wight Ferries.
Macquarie
It turns out that the same company – Australian investment bank, Macquarie – that owns Wightlink also owns Steam Packet, the Isle of Man ferry company.
The Isle of Man has their own OFT, which in February, launched an investigation into Steam Packet fares and profits, including the fuel surcharge.
The Steam Packet company was bought in October 2005 by Macquarie for £230 million, just four months after it purchased Wightlink for the same price.
Interestingly Macquarie look like they’re trying to shift a lot of their UK assets, although the ferry companies are not specifically mentioned.
Your comments needed
You’ve only got until 27 March to let the OFT know your views about the Island’s ferries.
Read more about the Isle of Man story
image: ahisgett
