CalMac shuffles ferry fleet after ‘exceptional’ delays

Ferry operator CalMac has shuffled its fleet’s operations in response to “exceptional” delays in vessels returning from maintenance periods.

MV Caledonian Isles, one of the largest ferries on the network, was due to re-enter service from repairs at the end of March.

It now needs additional work on its stern tubes and is not expected to return until mid-April.

Meanwhile, another large vessel, MV Isle of Lewis, has had its overhaul period extended and will now return to service on March 23 rather than February 28.

Challenges with several vessels in the fleet have converged at the same time, creating a significant capacity issue which leaves us with difficult choices to make in terms of service provision

MV Clansman’s overhaul has been slightly delayed and it is due to return on March 9.

CalMac has chartered a catamaran ferry called MV Alfred from Pentland Ferries and it will now remain on the west coast routes until the end of May.

The ferry operator said a lack of vessel availability means it cannot continue its usual summer service between Campbeltown and Ardrossan this year.

CalMac’s fleet received a boost in January when the long-awaited Glen Sannox entered service.

It is currently back in dock for planned remedial work and due to return to service in early March.

CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison said: “We are dealing with an exceptional set of circumstances here.

“Challenges with several vessels in the fleet have converged at the same time, creating a significant capacity issue which leaves us with difficult choices to make in terms of service provision.

“Given the age of our fleet and the need to overhaul all vessels outside of the busy summer season, our vessels are spending a record amount of time in overhaul this winter.

“This stretches our services and, when unplanned delays such as those we’re experiencing with MV Isle of Lewis and MV Clansman are factored in, our resources to the limit.

“With MV Isle of Lewis and MV Clansman delayed in overhaul, MV Isle of Mull operating a reduced capacity and MV Caledonian Isles still in for repairs, we’re operating with approximately one third of our major vessels unavailable or carrying restrictions. Despite this, we are maintaining core services to all island communities.”

He said he recognised the decision will be “disappointing” for the Campbeltown community but the ferry operator chose to prioritise island communities.