Isle of Man Showcases Maritime Powerhouse Credentials at UK- Isle of Man Coastal Powerhouse Maritime Event
The Isle of Man will today host a landmark gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators at the Maritime UK/ Isle of Man Maritime Coastal Powerhouse event, jointly organised by Isle of Man Maritime and Maritime UK. Held at the scenic Bradda Glen in Port Erin, the event underscores the Island’s vital role in the global maritime sector, celebrating its economic importance, social value, and strategic potential as a hub of innovation, skills, and sustainability.
The event brings together figures from across the maritime industry, including senior representatives from the Isle of Man and UK Governments. Notably, the event received high-level political support, with keynote speeches set to be delivered by the Isle of Man’s Chief Minister, Hon. Alfred Cannan MHK, and Hon. Dr. Michelle Haywood, Minister for Infrastructure. Their participation highlights the Isle of Man’s long-standing maritime heritage and future as a forward-looking, resilient maritime centre aligned with broader UK objectives.
The event also features words from UK Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security Mike Kane MP via video link, who underscored the rich and varied maritime heritage of the Isle of Man whilst showing support for creating stronger bonds between UK and Isle of Man maritime industries as we look to drive innovation and greater social value. The event’s Master of Ceremonies is Dick Welsh MBE, former Director of the Isle of Man Ship Registry.
On delivering the event, Capt. Lee Clarke, Managing Director, Isle of Man Maritime:
“We are delighted to welcome Maritime UK and delegates from across the UK to the Isle of Man as we come together to celebrate and collaborate on all things maritime. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the strength, diversity, and potential of our sector, both locally and nationally.
We’re particularly looking forward to hearing from the Chief Minister and the Minister for the Department of Infrastructure, whose keynote addresses will help set the tone for this important occasion. We were also honoured to receive a video message from the Minister for Maritime, Mike Kane MP.
We hope this collaborative gathering will shine a spotlight on the Isle of Man as a maritime centre of excellence and affirm our position as a true maritime powerhouse.”
Maritime UK Chief Executive, Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE, praised the partnership:
"The Isle of Man is a true maritime powerhouse - combining expertise, innovation, and deep-rooted community value. Having spent a lot of time here during my own childhood and receiving part of my primary school education here on the Isle of Man, I still fondly remember spending time on the island and witnessing the significant role that maritime has within local communities and local economy, which is one of the many reasons why I’m delighted to be here today with Lee and the team to help forge even stronger partnerships between the UK and the Isle of Man’s maritime communities. Together, we are strengthening regional clusters and building a more inclusive, resilient and high-performing maritime sector across the UK and its Crown Dependencies."
The programme features three dynamic panel discussions- The Maritime Connection, People Power, and Smart Seas - covering everything from UK-Isle of Man collaboration, skills development and workforce diversity, to digital innovation and emerging technologies. Prominent voices from Northern Ireland Maritime & Offshore, PDMS, and Liverpool John Moores University joined Manx leaders in charting a path forward.
As the sector looks ahead to delivering clean growth, greater inclusion, and enhanced global competitiveness, today’s event marks a milestone in the Isle of Man’s maritime journey, strengthening ties with the UK and reaffirming its role as a trusted and visionary maritime nation.