CalMac eyes up new May 21 return date for broken down ferry MV Loch Seaforth, after repair day slips
A BROKEN down ferry which has been out of service for a month will not now return to its Ullapool-Stornoway route before May 21 – but an end to the disruption is at last in sight.
The MV Loch Seaforth has been undergoing repairs in Greenock ever since its port engine failed in the middle of April.
The MV Isle of Lewis has been covering the route in its absence, with other vessels stepping in to operate the overnight freight crossings.
But these are all smaller ships than the Loch Seaforth – and this has caused headaches for islanders in particular.
After several delays CalMac had been hoping to have the ferry back at sea by May 17. But that date has now slipped again to May 21 at the earliest after "specialist engineers carrying out final testing... identified that further work is needed on one of her engine bearings".
However, the ship's repair looks like it is nearly complete, as CalMac has announced that the ship will be leaving the dock in Greenock for two days of sea trials on May 17.
All going well, it hopes to have it back in The Minch just days later.
Robbie Drummond, managing director of CalMac, said: “We will continue to keep all customers informed of updates and we are very grateful for their patience and understanding at this time.
“Any change to services can be challenging for our customers and the communities we serve, and we apologise for the disruption this will cause.”
Passengers looking to take the ferry are being urged to keep an eye on CalMac's website for any updates or changes, and the company will be providing another update to staff, customers and stakeholders on May 19.
Related news: CalMac confirms MV Loch Seaforth now out of action until at least May 17
