Getting to the Isle of Man is not always a simple task; there’s no train down the road that you can hop on to take you there. The two main methods of getting to the island are sailing with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company or flying to Ronaldsway Airport with one of the three commercial airlines that operate routes. Outside of these options, charter flights can also be arranged to fly from specific destinations.

By Ferry

The first and most affordable travel method is by ferry with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. The Steam Packet has daily sailings throughout the year between Heysham Port in Lancashire and the Sea Terminal in Douglas. Once the weather improves in the summer, the Steam Packet then expands its fleet with the addition of its fast craft vessel, the Manannan, which also sails daily to Liverpool.

The Steam Packet also operates routes to and from Belfast and Dublin during the summer months; however, you should be aware that these are less frequent throughout the week.

Visitors can travel as foot passengers or with vehicles on all routes. 

Additional sailings are offered during the TT period to meet the high demand; however, popular dates often sell out fast, so you’ll need to book early in advance. 

The Sea Terminal in Douglas is within a couple of minutes’ walk of the central bus hub, where you can transfer to the rest of the island. There is also a taxi rank just outside the front of the building if you do not wish to use the public transport network.

By Commercial Airline

Travel via air goes through Ronaldsway Airport in the south of the island and is served by three airlines Easyjet, Loganair and Aer Lingus. Travel time can vary, and some flights can take as little as 30 minutes, making it the ideal option for many travellers.

The below eight airports are covered by these three airlines, and some routes are only run on a seasonal basis.

Belfast International – Easyjet

Birmingham – Loganair 

Bristol – Easyjet 

Edinburgh – Loganair

Liverpool – Easyjet and Loganair 

London Gatwick – Easyjet

Manchester – Easyjet and Loganair 

Dublin – Aer Lingus

Similar to the ferries, flights can sell out early for popular times, particularly during the TT period, so it is advised that you book as soon as possible. For those travelling from international locations such as mainland Europe or the Americas, we recommend first flying into London Heathrow or Dublin then transferring onto one of the above routes.

A bus stop is situated just outside the airport’s main exit with routes running through Castletown, Port St. Mary and Port Erin for those staying in the south of the island and to the main transport hub in Douglas for those staying elsewhere on the island. A taxi rank is also located just outside the main exit.

Charter Flights

Charter flights can also be arranged through Duke Travel and are ideal for large groups who may be travelling from a location further afield from one of the previously mentioned routes. They are also perfect for smaller groups or individuals who are willing to pay extra for the VIP experience. To book a charter flight, call us on 0330 088 8434 or email [email protected] with your requirements, and our local experts will be happy to assist you.

Like the routes operated by commercial airlines, charter flights also fly into Ronaldsway airport, so the same transport links are available; transport such as coaches can be hired through Duke Travel for big groups if needed.