Full Ahead Ep 3 Gearing up for the Isle of Man TT races with the world's oldest ferry company

Full Ahead has been behind the scenes of the world's oldest ferry company as it gets ready to transport some of the fastest people on the planet.If you're listening to this on the day of release (Friday 30th May) then spare a thought for the crew and staff working for the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Because today is the busiest day of their year.Well over 40,000 motorcycling fans are transported across the Irish Sea to the island which hosts the famous TT races. Practice week sees a steady increase in travellers but it's today and during race week when the rate really increases. The ferries - the Ben My Chree, Manxman and fastcraft Manannan - work flat out.Hosts Alistair Eagles and Nigel Thompson have been aboard the flagship Manxman to meet the crew, passengers and hear a few TT tales.3' Meet our guides to life on the Manxman, James and Steve4' The Manxman came into service two years ago and James was among the crew who brought it to Manx waters.6' Coping with bikers from all over the world8' Feeding the hungry! Hope Steve copes with catering for a sudden influx of bikers.12' A cinema for the crew, how accommodation has changed over the years.14'30" Even 'man's best friend' is catered for16' The galley at lunchtime18' 30" On the cargo deck as traffic for the TT begins to board20' We meet a TT fan who is making his first crossing and another marking his 40th!25' Why the Manxman has shutes not lifeboats.29' Alistair and Nigel review the Manxman and look ahead to the next edition of Full Ahead.Thanks to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and particular thanks to James Taylor and Steve Allen.Subscribe now, leave a comment and if you'd like to be involved, get in touch,Full Ahead is a Nigel Thompson Media production https://www.nigel-thompson.co.uk/