Boost for island ferry routes as three vessels return to service

A major ferry returned to service on Tuesday afternoon as Government-owned operator CalMac continued to struggle with disruption.

The Loch Seaforth returned to its route between Ullapool and Stornoway in the Western Isles after having been taken out of service due to a damaged bow door.

The ferry will run at reduced capacity, taking 25 less cars than usual, with weather restrictions in force.

The Glen Sannox, which usually operates between Troon and the Isle of Arran, will continue its journey north to support on the route until at least the end of the week, CalMac announced.

Two smaller vessels are also due to return to service on Wednesday, with the Loch Frisa returning to the Oban to Craignure route and the Loch Bhrusda heading back to the Sound of Harris.

Six ships remain out of service, four of which are considered “major” by the operator, as it continues to struggle with weeks of disruption as a result of technical issues impacting parts of the west coast fleet.

The MV Hebrides is due back this weekend and will “unlock a cascade of major vessels” which will give the network a boost, according to bosses.

CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison said: “Welcoming one major vessel and two small vessels back into service is a welcome step in the right direction as we work through a challenging set of circumstances.

“There’s still disruption on a number of routes, but MV Hebrides is on track to return from planned maintenance this weekend and that will unlock a cascade of major vessels that should improve service provision to multiple islands.

“We’re working through that at pace and will publish plans later this week.”