The Steam Packet says its new fast craft is an instant hit with passengers.

The company says Mannanan has impressed with her bright, spacious accommodation with many positive comments on independent, online forums.

One posting, quoted by the company in a media release says the vessel provides "a new experience of sea travel to the Isle of Man".

The passenger is impressed by the size of Manannan and says she is just what the Steam Packet and the Island needed.

Adjectives used to describe the vessel include fast, classy, spacious, light and airy, the only drawback being the lack of decent outside space.

Steam Packet Chief Executive Mark Woodward says when Manannan arrived the company made a point of saying how good it felt she would be when she entered service.

He says feedback that has been received from passengers suggest the company's expectations have been justified.