The Steam Packet has apologised for the continuing problems with the SuperSeacat which has resulted in crossings being slower than normal.

They have now given a full explanation of the gearbox difficulties to passengers.

They say "the craft is fitted with four main engines each equipped with a gearbox, one of which recently and without warning suffered a major failure which necessitated it being removed from the craft and despatched to the manufacturers in Germany for assessment and repair.

This is unfortunately resulting in the craft operating on three engines and the slower passage time will inevitably and regrettably affect most of our departures and all of our arrival times, especially those scheduled for later in the day.

The length of the delay will vary day by day due to tidal and weather conditions, but please be assured we will make every effort to minimise delays as much as we can.

We fully appreciate this will cause you some inconvenience but we are doing all we can to expedite the repair and return Superseacat to her normal schedules just as soon as possible".