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...
29. One of the owners of the Manxman down the years was Greek shipping tycoon Michael Kollakis and he had the shipped blessed before its grand opening Photo: Archive
National World
30. There's plenty of images showing the magnificent Manxman as it came in to dock at Preston - but here's a picture taken from aboard the ship of the crowds lining the dock area Photo: Archive
National World
31. Anyone recognise this happy pair who came along to see the Manxman come in to dock at Preston? Photo: Archive
National World