For the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company becoming an Island of Culture 2014 financial partner is a logical extension of its support of the Manx community, as marketing manager Renee Caley explained:

‘The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is the oldest continually operating passenger shipping company in the world, serving the Isle of Man since 1830, so involvement in all aspects of island life is fundamental to “being a good neighbour”. As an Isle of Man-based company we are always keen to get behind local campaigns, provide support in areas such as sport, education and the arts, and also to seize opportunities that will promote the Isle of Man to a wider audience.

‘Our company has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and we put the communities we serve at the heart of what we do. Over the years, through our extensive community involvement, we have been pleased to support some truly exceptional local artistic talent and have welcomed many international performers to our shores.

‘It is against this background that the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is pleased to be a financial partner of Island of Culture, an initiative we applaud and which we believe is showcasing the Island as a nation rich in cultural and artistic diversity.’