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DATE |
NEWS |
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31/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Loch Alainn arrived on Barra at 1600 this afternoon after her
long trek from the Clyde. Her trials on the Ardmhor - Eriskay
roster should begin shortly in view to displacing the Loch Bhrusda.
The Clyde ferry has a greater car capacity of 24 over the Hebridean
vessels 18 which should allow her to cope with increased demand for the
route generated by new Island Hopscotch©
tickets CalMac now provide.
Lord of the Isles is lying Bow first in Oban tonight while the
Isle of Mull berthed in Craignure.
Isles of Arran took up the 1250 sailing from Kennacraig to Port
Ellen. Hebridean Isles left Kennacraig at 1300 bound for
Scrabster. Her ETA at the Pentland port is 1000 tomorrow morning.
Clansman is settling in to her relief duties on the Northern Minch
roster between Ullapool - Stornoway. |
Loch Alainn
at Barra Today
Clansman at Stornoway Today |
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30/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Loch Alainn has been continuing her journey up towards Barra
today. She was spotted in the Sound of Jura, off Loch Crinan at 1030
this morning which would indicate she was making for Oban and a passage
through the Sound of Mull. She is due to arrive on Barra late tomorrow.
Isle of Arran was seen sailing south past Whiting Bay, Arran at
1315 this afternoon, she later arrived in Port Ellen this evening. She will sail
for Kennacraig tomorrow morning and will take over from the Hebridean
Isles for the 1300 sailing to Islay. Hebridean Isles will
depart for Stromness at around 1400 as she is due to relieve on the
Stromness - Scrabster route for NorthLink's Hamnavoe.
Company News:
V Ships Pulls Out of Ferry Tender
(external link to BBC)
CalMac to Begin Meetings to Inform CHFS Tender Bid
CalMac Comment on CHFS Tender Process
CalMac Welcomes Clarification on Relocation
CalMac to Survey Bute Customers
(external links to CalMac) |
Loch Alainn Heading North Today
Isle of Arran at Port Ellen Tonight |
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Did You Know...? This Page Has Been
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29/01/07 |
Isle of Lewis arrived in the Mersey around 0600 this morning. She later
berthed alongside Birkenhead at 0700. |
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Western Isles:
Isle of Mull was reduced to a crawl approaching
Craignure this morning. She eventually docked at 0755 with more possible
engine difficulties. She then completed a fast turn around and departed
Craignure at 0805.
Raasay is now back on her winter station at Tobermory while
Loch Linnhe has moved on, destination currently unknown. |
Raasay at Tobermory Today |
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Clyde:
Saturn was called upon to assist in a search and rescue
operation off Wemyss Bay this afternoon. She missed one sailing and then
made for Rothesay where she arrived at 1540. Juno sailed as
normal and took the backlog of traffic caused by Saturn's missed
sailing.
Loch Alainn called at Rhubodach yesterday en route through the
Kyles of Bute to Lochranza. |
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28/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Isle of Lewis was passing Macarthur's Head on
Islay today at 1400 southbound to Birkenhead for her overhaul. She was
later noted sailing down the Kintyre coast around 1450 and emerged from
the North Channel at 1630.
Update 2245:
Isle of Lewis was, at 2245, off the Isle of Man - Chickens
Rock en route to Birkenhead for overhaul.
Lord of the Isles was 17min late arriving in Castlebay tonight. Her
timetabled arrival was 2020, she arrived at 2037. |
Clyde:
Isle of Cumbrae took over as Cumbrae ferry this evening. Loch
Alainn sailed for Lochranza, calling at Rhubodach on the way. She is
making for Ardmhor on Barra where she will carry out trials with a view
to replacing Loch Bhrusda later this year. She will return to
Largs in just over a week after the trials are complete.
Colintraive - Rhubodach (Loch Dunvegan):
Service is now running but may be liable to disruption or cancellation
due to weather conditions.
Terminals:
Work to improve the Terminal at Port Askaig continues with
further engineering works on site. Works vessel
Laura M is currently on site with pontoon and excavator (Pictured
opposite). Engineering work includes a new Linkspan, Sheet Piling and
Berthing Dolphins. All ferries are currently still diverted to Port
Ellen. |
Isle of Cumbrae arriving at
Largs
Laura M at Port Askaig |
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27/01/07 |
Birkenhead Ship Yard Expected Ferry Arrivals:
29/01/07 Isle of Lewis - No 4 Dry Dock
19/02/07 Clansman - No 7 Dry Dock
25/02/07 Hrossey - No 5 Dry Dock
Clyde:
Caledonian Isles resumes service today with a sailing at 0700 ex
Ardrossan to re-position in Brodick for the first sailing at 0820.
Isle of Cumbrae is due to take up the Largs - Cumbrae roster
tomorrow to allow the Loch Alainn to head north. The Loch
Alainn will then trial her capabilities on the Ardmhor - Eriskay
roster in view of displacing the Loch Bhrusda on the crossing.
Loch Riddon was temporary grounded at Portavadie at 1045 due to
the weight of a coach pushing her onto the slip. The coach then also
grounded its self on the slip at Tarbert delaying the 1115 departure to
1123. The coach was conveying the Clyde River Steamer Club to Kennacraig
for a sailing to Islay and back.
Isle of Arran is due to depart fro Kennacraig on Tuesday morning
to relieve the Hebridean Isles.
Largs - Cumbrae (Loch Alainn):
From mid-day on Sunday 28/01/07, Isle of Cumbrae will be
operating the Largs - Cumbrae service while regular vessel, Loch
Alainn, is away on trials.
This means a reduced vehicle carrying capacity on this service.
Loch Alainn is expected to return to service on the Largs -
Cumbrae route on Sunday 04/02/07.
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Western Isles:
Clansman is currently en route to Coll to drop off the gangway
she used at Brodick and will make for Castlebay to drop off her other
gangway she uses at Ardrossan before heading to Stornoway to relieve the
Isle of Lewis. Isle of Lewis will most likely head for
dry-dock (at Birkenhead) after her last run today which should allow her
to reach the Mersey for Monday morning.
Update 1200:
Clansman is currently berthing in Castlebay
en-route to Stornoway, she is expected to stay for the day in the
harbour.
Update 1455:
Clansman is just departing Castlebay
Update 1505:
Clansman is now exiting the bay to and is making for Stornoway.
Clansman later arrived at Stornoway appx 2030.
Raasay was on the Tayinloan - Gigha run but was reported
heading North yesterday, probably to Tobermory.
SoC Live!
Update 1550:
Hebridean Isles is currently conducting fire and lifeboat drills.
The crew conducted an exercise on the stern car deck with fire fighting
gear, her lifeboat was then lowered 6 feet and raised. |
Clansman in Castlebay Today
Clansman exiting Castlebay |
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26/01/07 |
Western Isles:
SoC Live!
Update 2135:
Isle of Mull departed Oban at 2132 on her 2130 departure to
Craignure.
Clyde:
A reminder for Saturday 3rd February 2007 - Withdrawn sailings:
Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian
Isles):
The 1230 sailing from Ardrossan and the 1350 sailing from Brodick have
been withdrawn from service on Sat 3rd February 2007, as per information
printed in the winter timetable. |
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25/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Lord of the Isles performed some interesting manoeuvres this
morning. At
0635 she was noted Bow first at Oban Linkspan, at
0735 she had switched to Stern first, by
0835 she was back to Bow first and seconds later she departed for Coll and Tiree, 1hour and 50mins
down on her timetable. At
0930 - CalMac Advised that the 1530 sailing to Castlebay & Lochboisdale is running 2
hours late and Intending Passengers are advised to check in at 1630. It is
possible she may have a Bow Visor or Bow Ramp problem but it must have been fixed
in readiness for her 0835 departure.
SoC Live!
Update 1545:
Lord of the Isles is currently passing Pennygowan on Mull en
route to Oban.
Update 1640:
Lord of the Isles called into Craignure at 1615 stern first to
pick up traffic, she left again at 1630 for Oban almost full.
Isle of Arran is anticipated to depart Gourock for Kennacraig on
Monday to take up the Islay roster. This will allow the Hebridean
Isles to make fro Orkney and relieve the Hamnavoe for
overhaul.
Oban - Castlebay / Lochboisdale (Lord
of the Isles):
Service is running approximately 2 hours late at present. All
vehicles should check in at Oban at 1630 for boarding.
Oban - Coll / Tiree (Lord of the
Isles):
The ferry from Oban to Coll & Tiree is currently running 1hour and 50minutes
late.
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Clyde:
Clansman performed the 1800 departure from Ardrossan - Brodick
while Caledonian Isles has sat for the day at the Irish Berth.
Clansman later departed around 2000 leaving Brodick for the Western
Isles.
Colintraive - Rhubodach (Loch Dunvegan):
Due to technical problems with Loch Dunvegan the Colintraive - Rhubodach route
may be subject to delays and cancellations. |
Caledonian Isles Today |
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| 24/01/07 |
Western Isles:
SoC Live!
Update 1630:
Isle of Mull is currently just passing the mouth of Loch Spelvie
presumably on her way back from Colonsay.
Loch Linnhe is still at Tobermory on the Kilchoan roster as
Raasay is away.
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Clyde:
Update 0745:
Caledonian Isles is just entering the Clyde area rounding the tip
of the Mull at 11kts.
Update 1130:
Caledonian Isles is now berthed at the
former Burns & Laird berth at Ardrossan. The changeover with Clansman
will take place on Friday, exact time is to be confirmed.
Update 1900:
Caledonian Isles is still currently berthed in Ardrossan while
Clansman sits at Brodick.
Isle of Cumbrae was floated out of Ardmaleish Boat Yard around
1500 this afternoon after her overhaul. |
Caledonian Isles Today |
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| 23/01/07 |
Update 0740:
Caledonian Isles is just passing through the Pentland Firth. Assuming there
are no stop
over's, she is expected to be at Arran / Brodick by about 0700 tomorrow.
Clansman will possibly not head off back to Oban tonight just in case
there are any last minute difficulties. It's also a crew change tomorrow for
Clansman, so she might hang
around at Ardrossan in the morning.
Western Isles:
Lord of the Isles was berthed stern in tonight at Oban last
night, she was later sighted passing Tobermory at 0836 bound for Coll -
Tiree.
Update 1830:
Caledonian Isles is currently just off the north tip of Skye
bound for the Clyde.
SoC Live!
Update 1613:
Loch Fyne seems to have hit the forecasted gales first, she is
making her crossing but kicking up some impressive spray. |
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| 22/01/07 |
Clyde:
Isle of Arran is still currently berthed at Gourock Wires berth.
It is anticipated that Caledonian Isles will return to Arran
after her overhaul on the 27/01/07, changing over with the Clansman
on the evening or following morning.
Update 2015:
Caledonian Isles left Aberdeen at 2012 tonight, so she should be
expected to be at Ardrossan for Wednesday morning. |
Isle of Arran This Morning |
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| 21/01/07 |
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2005 both Caledonian Isles and Isle of Mull met
up with each other at Gourock, it was to be only the second time the
vessels had met each other in such close quarters. |
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NorthLink Ferries:
Scrabster - Stromness
(Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe arrived in Stromness at 1445.
The next scheduled sailing will depart Stromness at 1645 to arrive in
Scrabster at 1815 due to adverse weather.
Update 1910:
Hamnavoe departed Scrabster at 1900 and is expected to arrive in
Stromness at 2030.
The next scheduled sailing will depart Stromness at 0630 to arrive in
Stromness at 0800 tomorrow. |
Hrossey In Aberdeen Today |
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Caledonian Isles in Aberdeen Dock Today |
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| 20/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Update 0925:
Fionnphort - Iona (Loch Buie): Service suspended. To be reviewed at 1100.
Tarbert - Portavadie (Loch Riddon):
Service suspended until further notice. Review mid-morning.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Tarbert):
Service suspended until further notice.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
0700 ex Kennacraig and 0945 ex Port Ellen cancelled. 1250 sailing to
be reviewed at 1200.
Update 2000:
Hebridean Isles arrived at Port Ellen at 1530 and departed at 1545 due to
weather.
Oban - Coll - Tiree (Lord of the Isles): Due to adverse weather conditions the Lord of the Isles has delayed her
departure from Oban to Coll and Tiree until 1200 today.
Update 1655:
Isle of Arran is noted heading to Gourock, she has just rounded the Mull
of Kintyre inbound. Destination presumably Gourock, updates to follow on her
location.
Update 2100:
Isle of Arran has gone straight into the wires with no unloading of Crew
cars. This could suggest she is not hanging about on the Clyde. She could be
just collect stores before heading back to Kennacraig to relieve the
Hebridean Isles.
NorthLink Ferries:
Scrabster - Stromness
(Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe departed Stromness at 1645 to arrive in
Scrabster at 1815.
The next scheduled sailing will depart Scrabster at 1900 to arrive
in Stromness at 2030.
The 0900 sailing from Stromness - Scrabster on Sunday 21st will be
delayed and is now expected to depart at 1100.
The 1200 sailing from Scrabster - Stromness will be departing at 1300.
The 1645 sailing from Stromness and the 1900 from Scrabster is under
review. |
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| 19/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Isle of Mull was having her
starboard side liferafts refitted today. The liferafts and cradle were
removed last Saturday and taken away by lorry presumably to have them
checked.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
Due to the overnight forecast the Captain has advised that they will
return to Kennacraig this evening rather than lie overnight in Port
Ellen.
The vessel will sail as per timetable at 1800 to Port Ellen, on arrival
they will offload and reload any traffic for shipment from the scheduled
0415 tomorrow (Saturday 20th January 2007).
The 0415 Saturday 20th January 2007 has been cancelled.
Next sailing as per timetable at 0700 Saturday 20th January 2007 -
Weather Permitting.
Update 2105:
Hebridean Isles arrived at Port Ellen at 2045 and departed at
2100 for Kennacraig.
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NorthLink Ferries:
New containers specifically designed for the transport of
livestock from the Northern Isles will be trialled by NorthLink Ferries
next month.
NorthLink expects to receive three prototypes of the newly designed
livestock containers from its supplier’s manufacturing plant in China
early in February. The containers are being shipped in to Grangemouth,
where they are scheduled to arrive on Friday, February 2.
Thereafter, they will be transported to the Northern Isles for
inspection and trials on the company’s freight vessels Hascosay
and Clare. The ferry operator will consult with a range of
interested parties on the prototypes, including industry experts,
farmers, buyers, and importantly, the appropriate health and welfare
authorities. Once the testing and consultation process is complete,
NorthLink will have the opportunity to make modifications to the design
prior to contracting the full production run of more than 100
containers. |
NorthLink's New
Livestock Container Demo |
| |
Gareth Crichton, NorthLink’s commercial director, said: “We’re looking
forward to receiving the prototypes in the next few weeks and are very
encouraged by photos showing one of the containers before they left
China recently.
“The shipping of the prototypes is a significant milestone in the
process of introducing a new system for shipping livestock from the
Northern Isles. The next stage is for us to test the system’s
suitability in practice and this is crucially important. During this
testing period we will also seek the views of those involved in the
livestock industry, from farmers themselves and the appropriate
regulatory bodies.” |
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| 18/01/07 |
Western Isles:
SoC Live!
Update 0750:
Isle of Arran is currently alongside the south berth (opposite
the linkspan) in Craignure.
SoC Live!
Update 1330:
Lord of the Isles is currently running late, she has just past
Tobermory now.
SoC Live!
Update 1615:
Isle of Arran has just fired up her engines as Isle of Mull
entered Craignure Bay, destination currently unknown.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
Update 1400:
Hebridean Isles is currently running a hour late. Updates to follow.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Tarbert):
Service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions. |
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| 17/01/07 |
Western Isles:
SoC Live!
Update 1000:
Isle of Arran is currently lying outside Oban bay waiting for
the Isle of Mull to depart from the linkspan.
SoC Live!
Update 1027:
Isle of Mull is now on the North Pier out of service and
having her Liferafts stowage attended too. Isle of Arran
is just departing the linkspan with a delayed 1000 departure to Craignure.
Eigg has just appeared in the bay arriving from Lismore.
SoC Live!
Update 1615:
The weather has suddenly deteriorated in the Sound of Mull and Loch Fyne is
struggling to make it across to Fishnish.
Dolphins were noted playing in front of Lochnevis on her way from
Mallaig - Armadale today.
Barra - Eriskay (Loch Bhrusda):
Due to Weather Conditions the Chargehand has cancelled the 1710 sailing ex
Ardmhor and the return 1815 sailing ex Eriskay.
The next return sailing will be as timetabled for Thursday 18 Jan.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
Update 2100:
Due to Adverse Weather the 1815 departure ex Kennacraig by
Hebridean Isles is returning to Kennacraig ETA approx 2100, where
she will berth overnight.
This in effect will mean that the scheduled 0415 sailing tomorrow
(Thursday 18th Nov) from Port Ellen has been cancelled.
Next sailing to Islay will be as per timetable at 0700 (Thursday 18th
Nov 07) - bound for Port Ellen.
Clyde:
Isle of Cumbrae is now in for her annual overhaul. Loch Ranza
is currently sitting at Rothesay with her radar spinning presumably
making ready to sail soon.
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2005 we reported that Researchers at Southampton and Highlands & the
Isles universities believe recent severe storms would become more
frequent and stronger in future. They weren't half right! |
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| 16/01/07 |
Western Isles:
The Inflatable Liferafts recently lost overboard from the Isle of Mull
have appeared at Tralee Bay, near Appin, Benderloch.
The intended route from Oban - Craignure is shown opposite
with the location of the Liferafts recovered shown by the orange dot.
They were carried by the tide up towards the Lynn of Lorn and were
washed ashore in the bay. |
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SoC Live!
Update 0720:
Isle of Arran was berthed stern in at Oban and departed
the Linkspan 5min late (0655) and
moved slowly towards the South Pier before leaving the bay very slowly
bound for Coll / Tiree. The crew had to lower her anchor last night and
retrieve it before leaving this morning. Isle of Mull spent the
night in Craignure, all of her starboard side inflatable rafts are now
missing following her roll on the 12/01/07.
SoC Live!
Update 0737:
Isle of Arran is just passing Craignure bound for Coll / Tiree.
SoC Live!
Update 0846:
Lord of the Isles is currently just passing Tobermory bay bound for Oban
returning from Lochboisdale.
SoC Live!
Update 0852:
Isle of Arran is just passing Lord of the Isles at Tobermory now.
Isle of Arran 18min late outward bound and Lord of the Isles
inward bound.
SoC Live!
Update 0925:
Lord of the Isles is currently 15min late outbound for Castlebay
passing Fishnish. Isle of Arran is also running late but only
by about 5min, she should make this up on her run to Coll / Tiree.
SoC Live!
Update 1102:
Lord of the Isles is just departing Oban for Colonsay now.
SoC Live!
Update 1410:
Isle of Arran is currently running a hour late returning from Coll &
Tiree, she is just visible nearing Tobermory now where she should be passing
Fishnish. |
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SoC Live!
Update 1650:
Lord of the Isles is just departing Oban for
Castlebay and Lochboisdale, 1 hour and 20 mins late, a result of previous
disruptions.
SoC Live!
Update 1715:
After arriving in Oban and departing again, Isle of Arran
is just arriving at Craignure for a overnight berth, a sharp turn around for the
relief vessel in her busy emergency rosters and a well earned rest. Isle
of Mull is just departing Craignure now on a late 1700 departure back to
Oban, the delay caused by ferry congestion in Oban.
SoC Live!
Update 1740:
Lord of the Isles is just currently passing Craignure
running about 90min late outbound for Castlebay with supplies on her second run
of the day to Barra after the recent storms |
Isle of Arran Approaching Craignure |
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Oban - Castlebay / Lochboisdale (Lord of the Isles):
Today's Amended Timetable for Castlebay & Lochboisdale will be as
follows:
2100 dep Oban*
0220 arr Castlebay
0240 dep Castlebay
0435 arr Lochboisdale
0455 dep Lochboisdale
1015 arr Oban
* Last Night (Monday)
Lord of the Isles departed at 2101 last night en route to
Castlebay as expected. Updates to follow on her progress.
Uig - Tarbert - Lochmaddy (Hebrides):
Due to the weather conditions yesterday Hebrides will be running a revised timetable for
today (weather
permitting):
0730 dep Tarbert - Uig
0940 dep Uig-Lochmaddy
1150 dep Lochmaddy - Uig
1400 dep Uig - Tarbert
1600 dep Tarbert - Lochmaddy
1800 dep Lochmaddy - Uig
2000 dep Uig - Tarbert
Oban - Colonsay (Lord of the Isles):
Due to adverse weather conditions over the last few days an extra sailing will be departing Oban at 1100
today.
Mallaig
- Small Isles (Lochnevis):
Loch Nevis is due to make a call at all four islands today in lue of
missing them previously due to severe weather conditions. Timetable
available form Mallaig office.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Tarbert):
Due to debris being cleared a Tayinloan, Loch Tarbert is now
operating to normal timetable.
NorthLink Ferries:
Delays Affecting Aberdeen Arrivals:
Due to adverse weather conditions the 0700 arrival of
Hjaltland has been
delayed, she is currently estimated to arrive in Aberdeen at 1015.
Update 1030:
Hjaltland has just
docked in Aberdeen at 1025. Her 1900 departure tonight is as timetabled.
NorthLink has confirmed this year’s dry-dock schedule for the Hamnavoe.
The vessel will travel to the Danish port Fredericia for its annual maintenance,
coming out of service on Saturday, February 3, returning on Wednesday, February
14.
During this period, the chartered ferry Hebridean Isles will operate to a
revised schedule across the
Pentland Firth, due to the longer crossing times.
The Hamnavoe departs for dock following the last arrival in Stromness on
Friday, February 2. The Hebridean Isles will stand in from Saturday,
February 3, until Tuesday, February 13, with the Hamnavoe picking up
schedule from 0630 Wednesday 14th February.
Stand-in timetable as follows:
Mon - Fri
0615 dep Stromness - 0815 arr Scrabster
0845 dep Scrabster - 1045
arr Stromness
1115 dep Stromness - 1315
arr
Scrabster
1400 dep Scrabster - 1600 arr Stromness
1645 dep Stromness
- 1845 arr Scrabster
1915 dep Scrabster - 2115 arr Stromness
Sat & Sun
0830 dep Stromness - 1030 arr Scrabster
1200 dep Scrabster - 1400 arr Stromness
1645 dep Stromness - 1845 arr Scrabster
1915 dep Scrabster - 2115 arr Stromness
Note: with the longer
crossing time the rescheduled 1100 departure from Stromness will not for the
period of the drydock connect with the scheduled 1300 coach or 1306 southbound
train. NorthLink has therefore made arrangements to lay on a coach running from
Scrabster to Train making a connection available with the southbound train from
Train at 1542.
Foot passengers wishing a direct connection southbound are advised to use the
first sailing off Stromness connecting with morning southbound bus and train
schedules as usual.
On Sat & Sun arrangements have been made to move the scheduled sailing forward
to 0830 to allow connection with the southbound coach at 1045. |
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| 15/01/07 |
Caledonian Isles is well underway with her annual overhaul in Aberdeen as
these current pictures show. |
Caledonian Isles in Aberdeen Dry Dock |
Western Isles:
Isle of Arran was seen heading south in Firth of Lorne at 1345 into a strong South /
South-easterly. It looked like she had maybe departed Craignure. Perhaps on the Colonsay sailing.
She will be staying in Oban tonight with Lord of the Isles who is
presumably preparing for either tomorrow morning 0645 or
tonight's 2115 sailing.
Update 1800:
Lord of the Isles at 1615 had her Radar & Navigation Lights on, but her
Bow Visor was sitting at 10 Degree angle off the closed position for some
reason. She was also sitting south side of the pier in Craignure. It is
currently unknown what is in Oban as there is nothing in at the Linkspan.
Update 1830:
Isle of Arran is currently backing stern first into Oban linkspan.
Update 2000:
Lord of the Isles is preparing to take the 2115 sailing to the
Outer Isles, after which she should make the Colonsay sailing tomorrow
morning. (See Colonsay Roster today).
Update 2105:
Lord of the Isles berthed stern first into Oban linkspan at 2040
and has just departed now at 2101 for the overnight sail to Castlebay.
For Timetable see Castlebay roster below.
SoC Live!
Update 2337:
Lord of the Isles is just passing Tobermory bound for Castlebay.
Mallaig
- Small Isles (Lochnevis):
Loch Nevis has been unable to berth at Isle of Eigg and Muck today
due to adverse weather conditions.
She is attempting to call at Rum at the moment with an ETA of 1220.
Update:
Loch Nevis missed both Eigg and Muck as she was unable to
berth due to the weather.
Mallaig
- Armadale (Lochnevis):
The 1600 ex Mallaig and the 1645 ex Armadale have been cancelled for today due
to severe adverse weather conditions.
Next sailing will be tomorrow 16/01/07 at 0840.
Oban - Colonsay (Isle of Arran):
Due to adverse weather conditions, today's 1200 sailing from Oban
(delayed until c1300) did not
make it's scheduled arrival in Colonsay and has had to turn back for Oban
arriving back around 1800.
The next sailing will be departing Oban at 1100 tomorrow morning performed by
Lord of the Isles after she returns from the Outer Isles.
Oban - Castlebay / Lochboisdale (Lord of the Isles):
Today's Amended Timetable for Castlebay & Lochboisdale will be as
follows:
2100 dep Oban
0220 arr Castlebay*
0240 dep Castlebay*
0435 arr Lochboisdale*
0455 dep Lochboisdale*
1015 arr Oban*
* Tuesday
Update 2105:
Lord of the Isles berthed stern first into Oban linkspan and has
just departed for the overnight sail to Castlebay.
Fishnish - Lochaline (Loch Fyne):
Due to worsening weather conditions, the 1600 from Lochaline and the 1625 from
Fishnish will be the last sailings of the day.
Leverburgh - Berneray (Loch Portain):
Due to adverse weather the following sailings have been cancelled:
0800 ex Berneray
0940 ex Leverburgh
Update 1300:
All further sailings today have been cancelled due to the adverse weather.
Uig - Tarbert - Lochmaddy (Hebrides):
Due to worsening weather conditions Hebrides returned to Tarbert.
The situation will be re-assessed at 1500.
Update 1530:
All sailings on this route have been cancelled for today as there is no
improvement in the weather.
There will be a revised timetable for tomorrow in operation (weather
permitting):
0730 dep Tarbert - Uig
0940 dep Uig-Lochmaddy
1150 dep Lochmaddy - Uig
1400 dep Uig - Tarbert
1600 dep Tarbert - Lochmaddy
1800 dep Lochmaddy - Uig
2000 dep Uig - Tarbert
Barra - Eriskay (Loch Bhrusda):
The Chargehand has advised that due to the weather conditions he was cancelling the
0925 sailing ex Ardmhor and the return 1030 sailing ex Eriskay.
The next return sailing will be reviewed at approx 1200 today.
Update 1230:
With no improvement in the weather conditions the following sailings have also
been cancelled:
1230 ex Ardmhor - Eriskay
1410 ex Eriskay -Ardmhor
The last return sailing will be reviewed at 1600 today.
Update 1730:
With no improvement in the weather conditions the following sailings have also
been cancelled:
1710 ex Ardmhor - Eriskay
1815 ex Eriskay -Ardmhor
The next sailing should be tomorrow morning (weather permitting).
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
1030 ex Ullapool and 1345 sailing ex Ullapool have been cancelled.
Isle of Lewis hopes to resume normal schedule at 1715 from Ullapool to
Stornoway.
Update:
All further sailings today have been cancelled.
Sconser - Raasay (Loch Striven):
Due to worsening weather conditions the 1000 ex Raasay and the 1030 ex Sconser
are now cancelled.
Further sailings will be reviewed on a sailing to sailing basis.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Tarbert):
Due to the ongoing problems at Tayinloan slipway combined by adverse weather
conditions today, CalMac are currently operating the service between Kennacraig
- Gigha.
Passenger numbers are restricted to 12 as with pervious diversions.
If weather permits the next sailings will be
1315 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1530 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
Fionnphort - Iona (Loch Buie):
This service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions.
The next sailing will be 1415 ex Fionnphort, weather permitting.
Update 1430:
Service is still suspended due to adverse weather conditions. This will be
reviewed at 1500.
|
Clyde:
Bute moved to James Watt Dock from
Gourock in the morning.
It appears Jupiter has 'lost' her Starboard 'Dodger' (the
piece of glass that protects the crew on the flying bridge wing)
sometime recently. It was last noted in place on the 11/01/07 so can
only have disappeared recently. It's possible that
they were taken off for some reason, but given the weather recently on
the Upper Firth, it's equally possible that they were literally torn off
by the high winds during the squalls.
The opposite image depicts the lower bridge deck dodger in place (brown
fixing with glass) while the upper flying bridge deck is missing. It was
of a similar appearance. Her Port side remains in place. |
Jupiter Minus 'Dodger'
(Intact on Lower Deck) |
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay (Saturn, Juno):
Due to a deterioration in the weather conditions further sailings will be
reviewed at 1800.
The following sailings have been cancelled;
1730 ex Rothesay
1815 ex Wemyss Bay
Update 1745:
Juno is currently in Rothesay while Saturn is battling to get out
of Wemyss Bay.
Update 1830:
Due to an improvement in the weather conditions Saturn will carry
out the following sailings:
1815 ex Rothesay - Wemyss Bay
1900 ex Wemyss Bay - Rothesay
Weather permitting Juno will carry out last departures from
Rothesay & Wemyss Bay.
Intending passengers are advised to check prior to travelling.
Update 1850:
Route now operating as timetabled.
|
NorthLink Ferries:
A gap in the weather seems to have allowed the Hjatland
to sail from Aberdeen northbound.
Hjaltland arrived in Lerwick at 0740 this morning and is
scheduled for departure at 1900 sailing for Aberdeen.
Hrossey arrived in Aberdeen at 0650 this morning and departed
Aberdeen at 1840 sailing for Lerwick.
Hrossey is scheduled to arrive in Lerwick at 0730.
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe undertook her
1315 sailings and arrived back in
Stromness at 1445.
Owing to adverse weather conditions the 1645 sailing from Stromness and the 1900
sailing from Scrabster have been cancelled. |
Hjaltland in a Blue Aberdeen...
...Compared to Hamnavoe the other Day! |
| |
|
| 14/01/07 |
Disruptions to Ferry Services Caused by Severe Weather
Light to moderate winds are forecast for a time on Tuesday, but strong
winds and gales are set to return on Tuesday evening, Wednesday and
Thursday along with a risk of severe gales or perhaps storm force winds
in northern and western areas on Thursday. This is expected to lead to
service disruptions across CalMac's network.
Western Isles:
Isle of Arran is currently on the Oban - Craignure
crossing standing in for her fleet mate Isle of Mull which is
currently out of service with a fault in her second engine again.
SoC Live!
Update 1000:
Isle of Arran has just departed Oban and is currently heading for
Craignure.
SoC Live!
Update 1140:
Isle of Mull has been repaired in Oban and is currently operating
a 0850 sailing to Coll and Tiree from Oban which departed this morning.
Lord of the Isles is currently assigned a 1530 timetabled Oban -
Castlebay - Lochboisdale run this afternoon (weather dependant).
SoC Live!
Update 1155:
Isle of Arran is just docking at Oban linkspan
and will possibly return to Tobermory once she unloads. She is berthing
Bow first suggesting a Stern load at Craignure. A pretty short return to
service for the standby vessel.
The Castlebay - Lochboisdale sailing has now been cancelled although
Lord of the Isles is currently circling Oban bay awaiting the
Isle of Arran's departure. She may take up the Craignure roster
until the Isle of Mull returns. Barra has not had a ferry from
Oban since Tuesday now due to the adverse weather.
SoC Live!
Update 1230:
Lord of the Isles is now at the Linkspan berth Bow First with
Isle of Arran nowhere to be found.
Update 1900:
Isle of Mull is now stern in at Oban linkspan ready for a early
departure.
Loch Linnhe left Gigha this morning at 0700 and made for
Lochaline. She then changed over
and is now at Tobermory to relieve Raasay which will make for Corpach and
her overhaul tomorrow.
Loch Tarbert has taken up the Tayinloan - Gigha run today where
she worked the 1200 & 1300
services to Gigha. Following completion of the Sunday schedule at 1320 Loch
Tarbert then headed for Kennacraig where she was noted at around 1500.
The illuminated notice at Tayinloan slip informs that sailings to Gigha will be
from Kennacraig for the next few days.
Oban - Castlebay / Lochboisdale (Lord of the Isles):
This afternoons sailing has been cancelled due to adverse weather
conditions.
Mondays Amended Timetable for Castlebay & Lochboisdale will be as
follows:
2100 dep Oban
0220 arr Castlebay
0240 dep Castlebay
0435 arr Lochboisdale
0455 dep Lochboisdale
1015 arr Oban
Lord of the Isles cabins may be required for these sailings!
Leverburgh - Berneray (Loch Portain):
Due to the worsening weather 1330 ex Berneray and 1440 ex Leverburgh
have been cancelled.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
Due to the adverse weather the 1800 sailing this evening from Kennacraig
has been cancelled.
This will mean the 0415 from Port Ellen tomorrow morning (Monday) will
also be cancelled.
The next sailing from Kennacraig will be 0700 tomorrow (Monday).
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Tarbert):
Due to the ongoing problem with the sand and seaweed compounded by tidal
conditions at Tayinloan the AM sailings are subject to disruption or
cancellation.
The Loch Tarbert is to be based at Kennacraig in the meantime
instead of Gigha for the shelter and operational reasons.
|
| |
Clyde:
Update 1100:
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay appears to be operating as normal. Clansman
is still in Brodick and is timetabled to depart at 1105 to Ardrossan,
updates to follow on her destination if she departs at all.
Update 1120:
Clansman appears to be on course fro Ardrossan making 16kts.
Update 1145:
Clansman appears to be just off Ardrossan as timetabled.
Update 1200:
Clansman has just berthed at Ardrossan as scheduled. |
Clansman Battling
The Firth Today |
| |
Company News:
Islanders see Catamarans As Sea Links Way Forward
Ferry
Journey Cut Short By Hurricane Winds |
| |
|
| 13/01/07 |
Its is surmised the remaining Loch Class overhauls will run as
follows:
Loch Fyne - late Jan / early Feb, covered by Loch Tarbert
Loch Ranza to return to Gigha (mid-late Jan) to release
Loch Linnhe
Loch Linnhe to go out to Barra to release Loch Bhrusda
Loch Bhrusda - overhaul during early-mid Feb, covered by
Loch Linnhe
Loch Portain - late Feb / early Mar, covered by Loch
Bhrusda (Loch Linnhe remaining at Eriskay until Loch
Bhrusda returns just before summer timetable)
Isle of Cumbrae - after Loch Ranza
Loch Tarbert - after Isle of Cumbrae
Eigg will not be doing the Islay - Jura relief this year for
the Council operated ferry.
Western Isles:
An update on the current situation with Isle of Mull (see
yesterdays Fleet News):
It is possible that the MCA had Detained
the Isle of Mull because of the lack of liferafts now onboard but, however true it may be, she will be
operating well within her limits for the time being as she is running on
restricted passenger numbers as she
normally does during the winter timetable. Her capacity is reduced to around 500 passengers
including the car deck passengers. At this time there does not seem to be any evidence of the MCA detaining her
though.
She will operate the 0700 this morning which should depart as normal as the
winds are forecast in a southerly direction with a 5mph wind.
Update 1300:
Isle of Mull is currently running 1 hour late due to the fact that the pressure of the weather
yesterday has managed to shut down her 2nd engine onboard. Reports are that
it may be
damaged again.
Isle of Mull has now been in Craignure again for the best part of today with
Lord of the Isles arriving
back in Oban and disappearing between 1430 and 1530.
SoC Live!
Update 1845:
Isle of Arran has now moved from Tobermory and is currently sitting stern
first in Oban Linkspan Pier which is usually allocated to
tomorrows Mull sailings. It appears Isle of Mull is suffering some
serious technical fault with her second engine and could be off for some time.
It is assumed she may be making ready for a slow voyage to the Clyde for
repairs.
Isle of Arran looks set as the Mull ferry for tomorrow at least.
Isle of Mulls liferafts and cradles have been taken away by lorry
for checks.
SoC Live!
Current Locations of the Fleet As of 1930:
Isle of Arran: Oban Linkspan Pier
Isle of Mull: Craignure Pier, South Side
Lord of the Isles: Craignure Pier North Side
Raasay has broken down this afternoon but is expected to be back
in service shortly. Loch Tarbert has left Campbeltown to take
over the Gigha roster but was diverted
due to adverse weather to Kennacraig.
Oban - Craignure (Isle of Mull, Isle of Arran):
Update 1300:
Isle of Mull is currently running 1 hour late due to the fact that the pressure of the weather
yesterday has managed to shut down her 2nd engine onboard and reports are that
it may be
damaged again.
Due to adverse weather the 1600 sailing from Oban to Craignure and the 1700
sailing from Craignure to Oban has been cancelled.
The next sailing from Oban will be at 1000 on Sunday 13th January presumably
operated by the Isle of Arran.
Oban - Coll - Tiree (Lord of the Isles):
The 0645 sailing from Oban today has failed to dock at either Coll or Tiree and
is heading back to Oban - arrival time in Oban will be approximately 1600.
Next sailing from Oban to Coll and Tiree will be at 0900 - this is very much
weather dependent and a final decision will be made on this sailing on Sunday
morning.
Uig - Tarbert - Lochmaddy (Hebrides):
Hebrides departed Lochmaddy @ 1150 for Tarbert.
Due to worsening weather 1330 ex Tarbert & 1530 ex Uig have been cancelled.
Next scheduled sailing will be from Lochmaddy @ 1200 Sunday 14th Jan.
Update:
Revised sailings for Sunday 14th Jan on the Tarbert Uig Service are as follows:
Dep Tarbert at 0900 (via Lochmaddy) arr Uig 1340
Dep Uig at 1400 (via Lochmaddy) arr Tarbert approx 1730
Clyde:
SoC Live!
Current Locations of the Fleet As of 1930:
Clansman: Gourock
Jupiter: Further Up Clyde (Possibly Below Erskine Bridge)
Juno: Rothesay
Saturn: Gourock Possibly at the Wires
Loch Alainn: Largs
Bute: Gourock
Coruisk: Rosneath
Ardrossan - Brodick (Clansman):
Due to adverse weather conditions the 1640 will be diverted to Gourock.
There for the 1800 will be sailing from Gourock and will arrive in there at
approx 1840.
Passengers are advised to be at Gourock for 1815. Clansman will then
load and depart as soon as possible.
A bus will leave Ardrossan for Gourock at 1755.
Update 2000:
Clansman is currently passing Dunoon outbound for Brodick.
Update 2045:
Clansman is just arriving outside Brodick bay after transiting in
service from Gourock.
Rhubodach - Colintraive (Loch Dunvegan):
Due to adverse weather conditions the crossing has been suspended for the
rest of this evening.
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay (Juno, Saturn):
Due to an improvement in the weather the service is now operating as
timetabled.
NorthLink Ferries:
Routes running to schedule.
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2006 Eigg, was involved in the rescue of four divers
after their speedboat, the Sunbird, broke down on the way to a
dive site in Ardmucknish Bay off Ledaig north of Oban. |
| |
|
| 12/01/07 |
Disruptions to Ferry Services Caused by Severe Weather
Severe weather, including high winds and heavy rain, is forecast for Thursday
and Friday. This is expected to lead to service disruptions across CalMac's
network.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has advised of a Severe Weather Warning for the
Western Isles for the next 24 hours. High water levels could lead to flooding,
particularly on the West Coast of South Uist. Transport, particularly on
exposed coastal routes is likely to be affected and drivers are urged to
exercise caution.
CalMac's OFFICIAL website (see above) will be updated with service disruptions, and all passengers
are advised to check with the website or with their local port before setting
out on their journey.
Please Check Above Company Links For Regular Updates.
Western Isles:
On the 0800 from Oban - Craignure, Isle of Mull headed through
the Lighthouse and Lady Rock Marker where the 3 tides meet. The Swell coupled
with the force of the tides meeting forced the vessel to list to starboard very
heavily (it was reported that the Port side stabilizer was seen above the water)
and she lost 2 inflatable liferafts positioned directly below the funnel. The
Isle of Mull reached Craignure, unloaded and returned to Oban as timetabled
but slightly late. She then returned to Craignure where she has sat since 1030
this morning. The ramp on which the Liferafts stay is reported to be wedged in
to prevent anymore becoming loose and she was in Bow First with the visor up,
reason currently unknown why. Eigg was sent to attempt to recover the
liferafts but to no avail. Isle of Mull is currently berthed in
Craignure tonight with Lord of the Isles in Oban stern first unable to
get off the pier with the wind.
Sconser - Raasay (Loch Striven):
1730 ex Raasay and 1800 ex Sconser, have been cancelled due to adverse weather.
Normal timetable will resume tomorrow, weather permitting.
Barra - Eriskay (Loch Bhrusda):
The 1710 sailing ex Ardmhor and the return 1815 sailing ex Eriskay have now been
cancelled.
Thus there have been no sailings on this service today.
Weather permitting timetable as normal for Sat 13/01/07.
Oban - Craignure (Isle of Mull):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been cancelled:
1600 ex Oban - Craignure
1700 ex Craignure - Oban
2130 ex Oban - Craignure
The next sailing from Oban will be 0800 Tomorrow
The next sailing from Craignure will be 0700 Tomorrow
(Both Weather Permitting)
Oban - Coll - Tiree (Lord of the Isles):
The extra sailing from Oban to Coll & Tiree at 0500 this morning has failed
to dock at either port and returned to Oban. The next sailing will be from Oban
to Coll & Tiree at 0645 on Saturday 13th January as scheduled.
Oban - Colonsay - Oban (Isle of Mull):
Due to adverse weather conditions the 1000 sailing from Oban - Colonsay and the
1240s sailing from Colonsay - Oban have been cancelled.
The next sailing from Oban - Colonsay will be Monday 15th January at 1200 as
timetabled.
Uig - Tarbert - Lochmaddy (Hebrides):
Amended Timetable for Tomorrow (Saturday 13/01/07) Weather Permitting:
0300 ex Tarbert - Uig
0515 ex Uig - Lochmaddy
Hebrides will then resume normal service as per timetable at 0730 ex
Lochmaddy after clearing a backlog of traffic built up from today's cancelled
sailings.
Stornoway - Ullapool (Isle of Lewis):
Due to worsening weather conditions the 1030 sailing from Ullapool, 1345
from Stornoway and 1715 from Ullapool today (12/01/07) have been
cancelled.
Weather permitting Isle of Lewis will depart from Ullapool at
0400 on Saturday 13 January and hope to take up the scheduled timetable.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean Isles):
Hebridean Isles cancelled her 0700 sailing to Port Ellen to day due to
adverse weather, they departed Kennacraig at 1300 and got to the mouth of West
Loch Tarbert and turned back due to the adverse weather, it is reported that she
recorded winds of 90kts near the mouth.
The 1800 sailing from Kennacraig has also been cancelled tonight due to adverse
weather.
This in
effect will mean that the 0415 sailing tomorrow - Saturday 13th January 2007 has
also been cancelled.
The next sailing to Port Ellen is at 0700 Saturday 13th January. (Weather
Dependent)
Mallaig - Small Isles / Armadale (Lochnevis):
All sailings cancelled today due to adverse weather.
Clyde:
Ardrossan - Brodick (Clansman):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings were cancelled:
1350 ex Brodick - Ardrossan
1515 ex Ardrossan - Brodick
1640 ex Brodick - Ardrossan
1815 ex Ardrossan - Brodick
Weather permitting the next sailing will be 0820 from Brodick Tomorrow.
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay (Juno, Saturn):
1345 ex Rothesay - Wemyss Bay diverted to Gourock and returned at 1530. (Juno)
1600 ex Rothesay - Wemyss Bay diverted to Gourock and returned at 1820. (Saturn)
NorthLink Ferries:
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe undertook her
1115 & 1315 sailings and arrived back in
Stromness at 1545.
Owing to adverse weather conditions the 1645 sailing from Stromness and the 1900
sailing from Scrabster have been cancelled.
The next scheduled sailing will depart Stromness at 0900 on Saturday 13th
January.
Kirkwall - Aberdeen ( ):
Due to severe weather
conditions the 2345
departure from Kirkwall (Hatston) to Aberdeen on Friday 12 January has been
cancelled.
The next scheduled departure from Kirkwall (Hatston) will be the 2345 sailing to
Lerwick on Saturday 13 January.
Lerwick - Kirkwall - Aberdeen (Hjatland):
Due to severe weather conditions the 1730 sailing from Lerwick to Kirkwall (Hatston) and
Aberdeen has been cancelled.
The next scheduled sailing due to leave Lerwick is on
Saturday 13th January at 1900 sailing direct to Aberdeen.
Aberdeen - Lerwick ( ):
Due to severe weather conditions the 1900 sailing from Aberdeen to Lerwick has
been cancelled.
The next scheduled sailing is due to leave Aberdeen at 1700 on Saturday 13th
January.
Hrossey and Hascosay have been stormbound at Aberdeen and
Hjatland has been stormbound in Lerwick since yesterday.
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2005 the 11th and 12th of January were equally bay days for weather as
has been this year. All routes were off on the 11th and almost the same again on
the 12th! |
| |
|
| 11/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean
Isles):
Today the Hebridean Isles did not have any sailing to Port Ellen.
The following were canceled:
0700 depart Kennacraig,
0945 depart Port Ellen,
1300 depart Kennacraig,
1530 depart Port Ellen,
Hebridean Isles stayed in Kennacraig all day, the next timetabled sailing
is at 0700 Friday 12th January 2007 (Weather Permitting)
Oban - Lismore (Eigg):
1445 sailing Cancelled due to adverse weather.
Oban - Castlebay (Lord of the Isles):
All sailings today have been cancelled. |
| |
# SoC Apologises, Detailed News Unavailable for Remainder of Today #
 News to Report? Let Us Know via Email, Use
the Links at the Top of This Page |
Jupiter Battling
The Firth Today |
| |
|
| 10/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Kennacraig - Port Ellen (Hebridean
Isles):
Due to the severe overnight forecast the Captain has advised that they will
return to Kennacraig this evening rather than lie overnight in Port Ellen.
Hebridean Isles will then sail as per timetable at 1800 to Port Ellen, on arrival they will
offload and reload any traffic for shipment from the scheduled 0415 tomorrow
(Thursday 11th January 2007).
The Following sailings have been cancelled:
0415 ex Port Ellen - Kennacraig: Thursday 11th January 2007
Next sailing as per timetable at 0700 Thursday 11th January 2007, Weather
Permitting.
Update 2115:
Hebridean Isles arrived in at Port Ellen at 2043 then departed at 2100. She unloaded her cargo and took the
cancelled 0415 (Tomorrow AM) cargo back to the mainland.
The next timetabled sailing
is 0700 ex Kennacraig - Port Ellen, Weather Dependent.
Oban - Craignure (Isle of Mull):
Update 0900:
Isle of Mull is currently taking shelter in Oban due to adverse
weather conditions.
As a result the following sailings have been cancelled:
0800 ex Oban - Craignure
0900ex Craignure - Oban
The master will revue the situation for a 1000 departure from Oban.
Update 1000:
Service now operating as timetabled.
Kennacraig - Gigha [Temporary Roster] (Loch Linnhe):
Service now resumed from Tayinloan.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Linnhe):
Service now resumed from Tayinloan after debris have been cleared from the
slipway. All sailings are now operating as to timetable.
Clyde:
Loch Tarbert was noted loading crew cars at Gourock with a possible
destination of Completion.
Updates to Follow.
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2005 Muirneag ran aground at 0430 on a routine departure from
Stornoway. A high tide floated her off about an hour later and she made for
Liverpool for inspection and repairs the next day. |
| |
|
| 09/01/07 |
Clyde:
ClydeSite AIS is showing Saturn arriving at Gourock (0920),
which would indicate that the high winds are causing problems with berthing at
Wemyss Bay. Clansman is having no such problems however, as she
successfully got into Ardrossan with her first sailing of the day from Brodick. |
| |
|
| 08/01/07 |
Clyde:
Saturn moved from Rosneath to Gourock and then on to Rothesay
where she took over from Coruisk for the 1600 sailing to Wemyss Bay.
Coruisk then sailed for Gourock where she berthed at the wires for the
night. Tomorrow she is due to sail for Rosneath after Juno sails down the
river to re-enter service and replace Bute.
Western Isles:
Kennacraig - Gigha [Temporary Roster] (Loch Linnhe):
Due to continuing problems with debris blocking Tayinloan slipway the
timetable will be as follows until further notice as of today:
0830 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
0945 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1130 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1315 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1500 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1630 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
Passenger numbers onboard Loch Linnhe are restricted to 12 while this
diversion is in place. |
| |
|
| 07/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Update 1200:
Caledonian Isles is just off the north end of Skye
making for the Pentland Firth and Aberdeen for her Annual overhaul.
Update 2120:
Caledonian Isles is now just off Dunnet Head
in the Pentland Firth making 17 knots. She's
due in Aberdeen at 0900 tomorrow.
Kennacraig - Gigha [Temporary Roster] (Loch Linnhe):
See Yesterdays Fleet News For New Timetable in Operation Tomorrow (08/01/07)
Clyde:
Update 1235:
Clansman is now in Ardrossan having run 20 minutes
late on her first sailing of the day from Brodick.
Update 1320:
Loch Alainn has just left
Troon on trials after dry docking for repairs, it is assumed she is now fixed.
Update 1450:
Loch Alainn is now passing through towards Largs suggesting she is headed
back for service.
Update 1545:
Loch Alainn is berthing at Largs slipway now. Isle of Cumbrae has
departed and is heading towards Rothesay or Gourock. |
| |
|
| 06/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Isle of Mull has had some paint scrapped off her Starboard bow
side, presumably a result berthing in the recent strong winds. It is interesting
to note it was on this day last year that she moved to Inchgreen repair quay for
repairs to a dinted bow from another incident. See
Fleet News
06/01/05.
Clansman departed Oban at 1535 this afternoon and headed south for Brodick
where she will take over from Caledonian Isles.
Track the ships positions LIVE! via
ClydeSite AIS
HERE (external link).
Update 2000:
Clansman is nearing the tip of the Mull about to round it and head for
Brodick. Caledonian Isles has just departed Brodick en route to her
overhaul allowing the Clansman to berth overnight on her arrival.
Update 2145:
Clansman & Caledonian Isles are just passing each other of the
south western tip of Arran.
Update 2230:
Clansman is nearing Whiting Bay on Arran on course for her 2330 arrival
while Caledonian Isles rounds the Mull heading north.
Kennacraig - Gigha [Temporary Roster] (Loch Linnhe):
Due to continuing problems with debris blocking Tayinloan slipway the timetable will be as follows until
further notice as of Monday 08/01/06:
0830 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
0945 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1130 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1315 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1500 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1630 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
Passenger numbers onboard Loch Linnhe are restricted to 12 while this
diversion is in place.
Clyde:
Loch Tarbert is now berthed at Rosneath with Juno and Saturn
while she is not required for winter relief operations.
Bute is due to replaced by Juno on Tuesday PM
Coruisk is due to replaced by Saturn on Monday PM
Both replacements are for annual overhaul. |
| |
|
| 04/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Mallaig - Small Isles (Lochnevis):
The Small Isles timetable has been changed for today and is going to do one call
at the Isle of Eigg.
The timetable will be as follows:
| |
Dep |
Arr |
| Mallaig |
1020 |
|
| Eigg |
1145 |
1135 |
| Rum |
1250 |
1240 |
| Canna |
1400 |
1350 |
| Mallaig |
|
1500 |
These times are all approx.
Oban - Craignure (Isle of Mull):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been cancelled:
Oban - Craignure 0800
Craignure - Oban 0900
Oban - Craignure 1000
Craignure - Oban 1100
Oban - Craignure 1200
Isle of Mull is currently stormbound in Craignure due to strong
north-westerly winds. Her first sailing into Oban was berthed Bow In.
The next schedule sailing from Craignure will be 1300 and from Oban at 1400
weather permitting.
Update 1300:
Route Now operating to timetable.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Linnhe):
Due to the problem at Tayinloan with the sand and debris caused by the adverse
weather. There will a sailing today from Gigha -
Kennacraig see times noted below - also passenger numbers are restricted.
0800 dep Gigha - Kennacraig
1000 dep Kennacraig - Gigha
There will be divers again in attendance today at Tayinloan to try and clear the
debris and if successful the service will again operate as timetabled from
Tayinloan - Gigha
Update 1145:
Due to the ongoing problem at Tayinloan with sand and Seaweed and now compounded
by debris after the severe gale on Sunday 31st December 2006. CalMac are
awaiting divers to come back tomorrow morning to clear the obstacles that are
keeping the boat from getting into Tayinloan slip. So the boat will be operating
a sailing from Gigha to Kennacraig please find times noted below:
Thursday 4th January 2007
0800 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1000 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1230 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1500 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
CalMac are hoping the divers may have cleared the debris and then the sailings will
operate as normal from Tayinloan - Gigha but still awaiting divers to advise.
Bookings are essential as passenger numbers are restricted to 12 only.
Update 1930:
Due to the ongoing problems at the Tayinloan slip, the Gigha Service is
operating on a temporary basis from Kennacraig.
See below for route timetable.
Kennacraig - Gigha [Temporary Roster] (Loch Linnhe):
Due to debris blocking Tayinloan the timetable will be as follows until
further notice:
0830 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1015 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
1230 ex Gigha - Kennacraig
1415 ex Kennacraig - Gigha
Passenger numbers onboard Loch Linnhe are restricted to 12 while this
diversion is in place.
Please Check Above Company Links For Regular Updates.
Clyde:
Loch Alainn was
sighted heading outbound near Dunoon earlier this morning.
Update 1330:
Loch Alainn has been
noted outbound passing Arran at 1335. Destination presumably Troon for repairs.
Largs - Cumbrae (Isle of Cumbrae):
All sailings have been cancelled until further notice due to weather conditions.
Update 1145:
Service has now resumed.
Colintraive - Rhubodach (Loch Dunvegan):
Due to the adverse weather conditions the Colintraive - Rhubodach route is
operating a limited service until further notice.
Update 1700:
Route now operating to timetable.
Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian Isles):
The 1105 sailing will depart Brodick and head for Ardrossan. However, due to
adverse weather conditions the Captain is giving no guarantee that he will be
able to berth in Ardrossan. If he does, the next sailing from Ardrossan will be
1230.
Update 1300:
Route now operating to timetable.
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay (Bute, Coruisk):
Due to adverse weather conditions the 0700 sailing from Rothesay (Coruisk) has been
diverted to Gourock.
Therefore the 0800 sailing from Wemyss Bay and the 0845 sailing from Rothesay
have both been cancelled.
The next departure from Gourock to Rothesay will be 0900. Transport will be made
available between Wemyss Bay and Gourock.
Weather permitting there will be a 1010 sailing from Rothesay heading for
Gourock. Intending passengers are advised to please check prior to travelling.
Update 1145:
Due to an improvement in weather conditions the Rothesay/Wemyss Bay service is
now operating as timetabled.
Gourock - Dunoon Passenger Only (AliCat):
Due to adverse weather conditions the passenger only service has been cancelled
this morning.
Please Check Above Company Links For Regular Updates.
NorthLink:
Stromness - Scrabster (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe arrived in Stromness at 1100.
Due to adverse weather conditions the 1100 sailing from Stromness and the 1315
sailing from Scrabster have been cancelled.
The next scheduled sailing will depart Stromness at 1645 to arrive in Scrabster
at 1815.
Update 1650:
Route now operating to timetable.
Please Check Above Company Links For Regular Updates.
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2006 Both the Isle of Mull and Lord of the Isles were
Flying there Flags at Half mast in a mark of respect for the long serving
Crewman of Colonsay pier Mr Charlie McKinnon that past away on the 21/12/06. The
Isle of Mull also stayed an extra hour in Colonsay to let the crew attend
the funeral. |
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| 03/01/07 |
Western Isles:
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
Due to adverse weather the following sailings have been cancelled:
1030 ex Ullapool
1345 ex Stornoway
Isle of Lewis will remain in Ullapool until approx 1700 this afternoon.
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Linnhe):
Due to the problem at Tayinloan with the sand and debris caused by the adverse
weather. There will a sailing tomorrow (Thursday 4th January 2007) from Gigha -
Kennacraig see times noted below - also passenger numbers are restricted.
0800 dep Gigha - Kennacraig
1000 dep Kennacraig - Gigha
There will be divers again in attendance tomorrow (Thursday) at Tayinloan to try
and clear the debris and if successful the service will again operate as
timetabled from Tayinloan - Gigha.
Kennacraig - Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Hebridean Isles):
Hebridean Isles diverted her 0945 sailing to Port Askaig, due to the
barley boat
occupying her berth.
The later 1530 sailing arrived in at Port Ellen as normal but due to
wind turning around to the west she was 20mins late departing.
Fionnphort - Iona (Loch Buie):
This service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions.
The next attempt will be at 1430.
Update 1450:
The ferry managed a crossing at 1430 but weather conditions are still very poor.
The next attempt will be at 1615 ex Fionnphort.
Update 1600:
Due to worsening weather conditions there will be no further sailings on this
route today. |
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| 02/01/07 |
Past Fleet News - On This Day...
In 2005 recently sold Pioneer (renamed Brenda Corlett) arrived
around 1100 today at Gibraltar and is currently awaiting a berth at the port.
Her next step will be the west coast of Africa. |
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| 01/01/07 |
Welcome to 2007!
SoC Crew & Reporters Welcome You To Another Year of CalMac Fleet News, all
the best for 2007!...
 New Year Timetable
Restrictions:
There are NO sailings on Monday 1 January and restricted sailings on
Tuesday 2 January.
Western Isles:
Loch Linnhe
is now operating on the Tayinloan - Gigha crossing whilst the Loch Ranza
lies at Rothesay awaiting her annual overhaul at Ardmaleish.
Clyde:
Also a reminder that the 1230 sailing from Ardrossan and the 1350
sailing from Brodick have both been withdrawn from service on Monday 8th
January 2007 as per information printed in the current winter timetable. |
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Past News Logs: |
| Click
HERE to see the past fleet news logs |
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