Having spent its first 20 years as a ferry between the Isle of Man and Liverpool, The Manxman was built at the Cammell Laird shipyard in 1955 for the Isle of Man Steam packet company and ceased service in 1982. It originally arrived at Preston Docks to be converted into a floating museum and visitor centre, but this project failed and it became a floating nightclub and restaurant.
When the docks were redeveloped the Manxman was towed to Liverpool (in 1991) and used as a floating nightclub in the Trafalgar Docks area. It was then left rusting in dock in Sunderland before being dismantled in 2012. We hope these pictures bring back some great memories.
Still looking for some more retro? Check out these other recent pieces...

17. Navigating the Ribble aboard the Manxman as it comes in to dock at Preston Photo: Archive
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18. Just some of the hundreds who gathered on the docks at Preston to witness the arrival of the Manxman Photo: Archive
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19. As well as a nightclub, the Manxman was home to a maritime museum Photo: Archive
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20. Excited for the arrival of the Manxman at Preston Docks in 1982 Photo: Archive
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