One of the most pleasing decisions the Steam Packet made in 2008 was to rename the fast craft Superseacat Two and give her the name of the first true fastcraft built in 1905 the Viking.

Thus Viking appeared on the Mersey early in 2008 in the new Steam Packet livery - which is really the traditional livery with a modern twist - another very pleasing decision.

However the future career of the Viking with the Steam Packet would appear to be limited as she will be replaced by the new as yet un-named Incat 50 in 2009. This gallery celebrates what could be the final full season of the Viking for the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Shots are in easily recognisable places - Douglas, on the Mersey, at the Pier Head, in the dock system at Liverpool or simply at sea and are all taken in 2008.

All photographs copyright Adrian Sweeney/Ships of Mann