The Extraordinary Isle
Welcome to the Isle of Man – a captivating gem in the Irish Sea, where timeless charm meets modern adventure. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the British Isles, the island offers cruise visitors a rare blend of accessibility and authenticity. Nestled between England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the Isle of Man is a natural stopover on British and Northern European itineraries, with seamless port access and efficient tendering options.
Despite its compact size—just 30 miles long by 10 miles wide—the Isle of Man delivers a rich tapestry of experiences. Cruise visitors can explore rugged coastlines, lush countryside, and vibrant towns steeped in Celtic and Viking heritage. From ancient castles and the world’s largest working waterwheel, vintage steam railways, artisan distilleries, every excursion offers a glimpse into the island’s unique character.
As the world’s first entire nation designated a UNESCO Biosphere, the Isle of Man is committed to sustainability and preserving its natural beauty. With engaging shore excursions, a calendar full of cultural events, and the warm welcome of the Manx people, the island promises cruise visitors unforgettable memories and a truly distinctive destination experience.
The Island has long been a popular port of call for cruise liners, with a choice of anchorages on our picturesque coastline, from the sweeping Victorian promenade of Douglas to a dock alongside the ancient fortress, Peel Castle.
We have an experienced and dedicated team in place with a wealth of local knowledge to co-ordinate your arrangements and ensure your passengers and crew have an unforgettable experience in the Isle of Man.
Top Five Facts Extraordinary Facts About the Isle of Man
1. The Isle of Man is home to the oldest continuous parliament in the world – Tynwald. Dating back over 1,000 years, Tynwald is a living symbol of the island’s deep-rooted democratic tradition. Its annual open-air sitting on takes place on Tynwald Day (July 5th).
2. The Isle of Man has many hills but only one mountain – Snaefell, standing at 2,036 feet (621 metres). From its summit, on a clear day, visitors are said to see seven kingdoms: the Isle of Man, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the sea, and Heaven.
3. The Isle of Man is home to the largest working waterwheel in the world – the Great Laxey Wheel, also known as Lady Isabella. Built in 1854 to pump water from the Laxey Mines, this iconic engineering marvel has a diameter of 22 metres (72 feet 6 inches).
4. The Isle of Man TT Races – short for Tourist Trophy – are world-famous motorcycle races held annually on the island. The races are over 100 years old and the course spans 37¾ miles (60.7 km) of public roads, which are closed for the event. The fastest competitors complete the circuit in just 18 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 200 mph (322 km/h).
5. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) was founded in 1824 by Sir William Hillary, a resident of the Isle of Man.
GMT
24hrs
54° 08’.7N – 04° 28’.2W
Winds: SW
Douglas Head: 212° x 0.8′ 14mtr depth.
Max 15mins by ship’s launch
Victoria Pier outside – protected with vertical & Yokohama fenders
140mtr up to 155mtr in certain cases
No restriction
No restriction
6.0mtr depending on size of the vessel
5.5m – tidal range 8.3m above ACD
Available but not complusory
An 8T bollard pull tug is available
Fully ISPS compliant
Shore gangways available
Connection on Victoria Pier
No
With prior approval of port authority
Yes – Garbage skips can be provided at the pier
There is a passenger lounge with comfortable seating, rest rooms, Costa Coffee outlet, WH Smith, retail pods, Cruise Welcome Pod and Tourist Information Welcome Desk with advisers who can assist with maps, advice, ticket sales, transport etc.
The Isle of Man Post Office branches in Douglas, Ramsey, Port Erin and Peel offer currency exchange and are open Monday to Saturday.
Free WiFi at sea terminal building
Not available
There is a letter post box and parcel drop point in the terminal building.
A taxi rank is located outside the terminal building. Private taxis can also be booked at the Welcome Centre in the terminal building.
The Steam Railway station and nearest Horse Tram stop is a 15 minute walk from the terminal building whilst the Electric Tram station is 2700m (36 minute walk).
There are bank branches in Douglas city centre (10 min walk) and two ATM machines outside the terminal building.
There is a Costa Coffee (café) inside the terminal building and numerous bars, restaurants and cafes nearby in the city centre and on the quayside which are within walking distance from the terminal building.
Visit Isle of Man
+44 (0) 1624 686663
See below for GlenLeven Marine
Visit Isle of Man, Sea Terminal, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2RF
GlenLeven Marine Ltd
+44 (0) 7624 200292
