|
DATE |
NEWS |
| 30/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Bhrusda set out across the Minch this morning and is now
back in service on the Sound of Barra. Loch Linnhe is now en
route for Raasay and her next relief duty, covering Loch Striven. |
| |
|
| 29/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull left JWD for trials and adjustments before
berthing at Gourock at 1230 to collect crew cars. She then made for
Ardrossan to undertake berthing trials and discharge the cars and she
then sailed across to Brodick, exchanging places with Caledonian
Isles in time to take over with the 1920 ex Brodick. Caledonian
Isles then sailed north direct to JWD, where she arrived at around
2130.
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Bhrusda left Campbeltown this morning and made for
Mull, berthing at Tobermory this evening. |
Isle of Mull unloading at Ardrossan this
afternoon |
| |
|
| 28/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Loch Bhrusda and Loch Buie now appear to be out of
Ardmaleish Boat Yard after there annual overhaul. Loch Alainn was
noted hovering nearby waiting to get in for her turn. She eventually
went in sometime after 1300.
UPDATE:
Loch Buie is now sitting in Rothesay harbour and Loch Bhrusda
made for Largs and then Campbeltown to pick up crew cars and for an
overnight berth respectively. She is
expected to head North for relief tomorrow.
Isle of Mull is to take on crew cars at Gourock tomorrow at 1140.
She will then perform berthing trials at Ardrossan at 1515 and Brodick
at 1700 in preparation to entering service on the Arran roster with the
1920 ex Brodick.
Caledonian Isles will discharge her load at 1855 at Brodick and
head for Garvel dock where her annual overhaul will be carried out. She
is expected to deploy her MES systems at 1100 on Friday, and remain in
dock for 17-18 days for her overhaul.
 Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian Isles):
Due to a high tide passengers arriving from Ardrossan on the 1230 &
leaving on the 1350 had to use the car deck to board / alight the ferry. |
| |
|
| 27/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull is expected to take up the 1350 ex Brodick on Thursday
from Caledonian Isles. She
is also expected to perform trials tomorrow to finalise her preparation
for the route, it will be the first time the Western Isles vessel has
operated on this Clyde route. |
| |
|
| 26/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull continues to have work carried out on her stern ramp
in JWD - a task that has been being carried out for the past few days.
COMPANY NEWS:
'Thousands Against Sunday Ferry' (external link, new window) |
Workers on Isle of Mull Today |
| |
|
| 25/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Loch Shira was back at Largs at c1200 today after receiving repairs.
Loch
Alainn departed at 1245 after swapping over with her larger counterpart
at 1230 and headed straight for the Wires, Gourock arriving there at
1400. |
Loch Alainn and Loch Shira 1230 |
| |
|
| 24/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Isle of Arran diverted her 0700 sailing from Kennacraig this morning
to Port Askaig instead of Port Ellen. She Docked at Port Askaig
at 0945 then departed at 1008, this was due to adverse weather
conditions.
Hebridean Isles:
UPDATE 1700:
Hebridean Isles is currently off the Garvellach Isles.
It appears that she travelled via the Sound of Sleat and then Sound of
Mull probably due to the bad weather.
UPDATE 2000:
Hebridean Isles arrived at Port Ellen tonight at 1923 where she will
spend the night. She will then depart at 0800 tomorrow bound for Kennacraig where she
will berth until her 1800 sailing tomorrow night.
Isle of Arran is due to do the timetabled sailings
tomorrow then
finish off in Kennacraig tomorrow night. She will then depart Kennacraig at 0700
Sunday morning bound for Port
Ellen where she will take up her 0945 sailing to Kennacraig and
will do the 1300 sailing to Port Askaig then finish up at Kennacraig
on Sunday Night.
Monday 26th November the Islay timetable will be back to normal.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Caledonian Isles appears to have suffered some kind of engine failure
and had
problems berthing at Ardrossan today. She eventually berthed safely at
the mainland terminal on the 1350 sailing. It is possible she lost her bow
thrusters & nudged into the pier before berthing. After attempting to rectify
the malfunction it was decided to cancel any remaining sailings for today. |
Loch Shira at the Wires Today |
| |
|
| 23/11/07 |
Hebridean Isles is expected to depart Aberdeen at 0900 this
morning. However as of 0930 she was still moored near Pocra Quay with
newly arrived ex fleet mate Claymore.
UPDATE 1800:
Hebridean Isles departed Aberdeen today bound for Port Ellen
her ETA is tomorrow night where she will berth overnight. She will then
depart at 0700 Sunday morning bound for Kennacraig and remain there
until her timetabled 1800 to Port Ellen that evening.
Isle of Arran will perform the timetabled sailings tomorrow, she
will then finish off in Kennacraig tomorrow night. She is then expected
to depart Kennacraig at 0700 Sunday morning bound for Port Ellen where
she will take up her 0945 sailing to Kennacraig. She will also do the
1300 sailing to Port Askaig then finish up at Kennacraig on Sunday
Night.
Monday 26th November the Islay timetable will be back to scheduled.
WESTERN ISLES:
There are numerous expected disruptions due tomorrow as a result of
forecasted adverse weather. Please check the official disruptions page
above for further updates.
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
Isle of Lewis remained in Ullapool last night due to adverse
weather, as a result the
0715 sailing from Stornoway this morning has been cancelled.
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
The overnight freight service from Stornoway - Ullapool tonight & return
tomorrow morning has been
cancelled due to adverse weather.
CLYDE:
Saturn (currently on layup at Rosneath) is in the process of
running her engines and making a lot of smoke as of 0950 this morning.
Updates on her movements (if any) to follow.
UPDATE 1900:
No reported movements.
Isle of Mull was noted receiving attention to her stern ramp
today while she nears completion of her annual overhaul in JWD. She also
has a new radar set fitted in the shape of Sperry Marine similar to
Saturn's.
Loch Alainn tested her fast recovery craft this afternoon at
Largs launching while she sat at the slipway.
Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian Isles):
Caledonian Isles is berthing in Brodick tonight due to adverse weather.
Therefore the 0700 departure from Ardrossan tomorrow has been
cancelled.
The first sailing, weather permitting from Ardrossan tomorrow will be
0945.
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Aberdeen - Kirkwall (Hatston) - Lerwick (Hjaltland, Hrossey):
Hrossey departed directly for Lerwick at 1650 yesterday evening omitting her call at Kirkwall due to
severe weather conditions. She is expected to arrive in Lerwick c0730
this morning.
Therefore the next call at Kirkwall will be Hrossey tonight at 2300
en-route from
Lerwick - Kirkwall - Aberdeen. |
| |
|
| 22/11/07 |
Hebridean Isles is due to depart Aberdeen tomorrow morning bound
for Kennacraig after completing her annual overhaul. It is estimated to
take her between 34 & 36 hours to complete the voyage round the
North coast of Scotland (weather dependant).
WESTERN ISLES:
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
It appears the overnight freight service ran last night but is
subject to heavy delays on retuning this morning due to adverse weather.
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
All sailings have been cancelled for today due to adverse weather.
Isle of Lewis will remain in Ullapool tonight, as a result the
0715 sailing from Stornoway tomorrow is also cancelled.
Please call Stornoway or Ullapool office for further details or see link
above for official updates.
Mallaig - Eigg - Muck - Rum - Canna
(Lochnevis):
All sailings disrupted today due to adverse weather.
Kennacraig
- Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Isle of Arran):
Isle of Arran diverted her 1300 sailing from Kennacraig to Port
Ellen today. She arrived at Port Ellen at 1545 then departed at 1615 she
was 45mins late due to adverse weather and volume of traffic.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull is due to relieve Caledonian
Isles as of Monday 26/11/07 on the Ardrossan - Brodick roster
for an estimated three weeks. This will allow the regular Arran vessel
to receive her annual overhaul. Normally the relief is provided by the
Outer Isles vessel Clansman but in a first the Mull vessel will
stand in.
Isle of Cumbrae arrived at Largs this afternoon c1345 and briefly
unloaded crew cars before heading to Rosneath for her winter layup with
Juno and Saturn. |
Isle of Mull in JWD Today |
| |
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe took the alterative route from Scrabster- Stromness this
morning. She sailed round the East side of Hoy as appose to the West
side and past the Old Man of Hoy. This route is much more sheltered than
the East side but slightly increases the passage time between ports. She
sailed back via the usual East side on he return.
UPDATE 1330:
Hamnavoe departed Scrabster at 1325 and is expected in Stromness
at 1455.
As a result of adverse weather the next sailing will be:
1645 dep Stromness
1815 arr Scrabster |
Hamnavoe's Position at 1500
Track: Blue South | Green North |
| |
UPDATE 1350:
Hamnavoe is again retuning via the East side of Hoy as noted above
to Stromness.
UPDATE 1550:
Hamnavoe arrived in Stromness Bay at 1520 and is expected to depart
at 1645 with a arrival at Scrabster of 1815.
UPDATE 2000:
Hamnavoe spent the rest of the day heading North via the East
side of Hoy and South via the West.
Aberdeen - Kirkwall (Hatston) - Lerwick (Hjaltland, Hrossey):
Hrossey arrived in Aberdeen at 0710 this morning and is scheduled to
depart directly for Lerwick at 1700 omitting her call at Kirkwall due to
severe weather conditions.
Therefore the next call at Kirkwall will be tomorrow at 2300 from
Lerwick - Kirkwall - Aberdeen.
Hjaltland departed Lerwick at 1900 sailing directly for Aberdeen.
Aberdeen - Kirkwall (Hatston) - Lerwick Freight (Hascosay, Clare):
UPDATE 1100:
Clare is currently en route for Lerwick, upon her ETA of 1400 she
will not return as scheduled at 1800 to Aberdeen due to adverse weather
predicted.
Hascosay arrived in Aberdeen at 0752 this morning and is expected
to sail at 1800 directly for Lerwick. |
| |
|
| 21/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Bhrusda left Ardmhor, Barra at 0950 this morning -
destination unknown but it is anticipated she is heading South.
Isle of Cumbrae has now left Tobermory and is currently heading
for an overnight berth at Craighouse, Jura. Raasay is now on the
Tobermory - Kilchoan roster having been awaiting her turn patiently at
the buoy.
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
UPDATE 1000:
Muirneag was entering Loch Broom Ullapool bound at c0315 and
was returning mid-Minch at c0630 and arrived in Stornoway at c0815 this
morning.
The overnight freight service from Stornoway - Ullapool tonight & return
tomorrow morning has been
cancelled due to adverse weather.
CLYDE:
UPDATE 1030:
Isle of Mull has just departed Garvel dry dock in the past 30mins
and moved to the wet dock.
PAST FLEET NEWS:
ex CalMac ship Claymore, now owned by Pentland Ferries has today
sailed from Gills Bay to Aberdeen for a passenger certificate survey and minor overhaul
rumoured to be in anticipation for her to operate the revised
Campbeltown - Ballycastle service. |
| |
|
| 20/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Linnhe arrived at Barra today to relieve the
Loch Bhrusda. The smaller ship arrived at 1500 this afternoon
and both vessels berthed at Ardmhor, Barra while crews prepared the
vessels for there appropriate duties. Loch Bhrusda is due to
leave Ardmhor tomorrow morning.
Isle Of Arran arrived at Port Askaig at 1520 this afternoon
and departed at 1546 due to a strong tide against her on her way
into Port Askaig. There was also a large volume of traffic for the
sailing.
TERMINALS:
Oban:
The new linkspan at Oban was used by Lord of the Isles
today on returning from Craignure at 1540 and again on the outward
at 1600.
The new passenger gangway was not used, instead foot passengers
boarded the vessel using stern ramp. |
Loch Bhrusda & Loch Linnhe
at Ardmhor, Barra Today
Lord of the Isles at New Berth |
| |
|
| 19/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Clansman trailed the new linkspan berth at Oban today.
She berthed bow in.
Kennacraig
- Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Isle of Arran):
Due to Adverse Weather the additional 1800 sailing tonight and the
return sailing at 0415 tomorrow from Port Ellen have been cancelled.
Normal Service will resume as per timetable tomorrow.
|
Clansman at New Berth Today |
| |
Saturn has had a brand new, larger and much more sophisticated
main radar unit in the shape of a Sperry Marine fitted during her
overhaul. Jupiter
and Juno still have old ones. A lot of the fleet are due to
receive new radar units this year, one reason being upgrades from CRT
Displays to Flat Panel. Lord of the Isles had two new Furuno
Radars fitted at her recent dry docking, the new 'S' band being quite
different from the old Decca one. Isle of Mull will also receive
new ones at this overhaul docking. It is unsure what kind though. It is
possible that hers will not be Furunos to give the company a comparison
between two different kinds.
CLYDE:
Saturn has been temporarily fitted with ribbons attached to her
guide wires on her masts while she is in her lay up period. This is to
help stop birds / gulls messing on her decks. |
Saturn's Sperry Marine
Saturn's New Radar & Ribbons |
| |
|
| 18/11/07 |
CLYDE:
SoC LIVE UPDATE 1320:
Loch Alainn and Loch Dunvegan are
currently changing over at Rhubodach. Loch Alainn is due to head
down to Largs later this afternoon to relieve the Loch Shira,
while the latter goes up to Gourock for repairs.
Lock Alainn and Loch Shira have now changed rosters at
Largs, the latter will now presumably make for repairs at the Wires,
Gourock. It is thought that possible shaft alignment corrections and
minor deck work is expected but not confirmed during this period. |
Loch Alainn & Shira Today |
| |
|
| |
COMPANY NEWS:
Independent Market Research to be Carried out Onboard Ferry on
Stornoway - Ullapool Service
Caledonian MacBrayne has received a number of representations from
certain groups wishing to see a change to the ferry timetable on
Saturdays, requesting, in particular, the opportunity to return later
from the mainland on Saturday evenings.
Consultation meetings have been held with various groups and with the
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar but, to sound out the views of the wider
community, Caledonian MacBrayne has engaged the services of an
independent market research company whose staff will be travelling on MV
“Isle of Lewis” this Saturday, 17 November, and for the following three
consecutive Saturdays.
In addition to the current timetable, two suggested alternative
timetables are being investigated, one involving a later start on
Saturday mornings from Stornoway and one altering the times of Saturday
afternoon sailings. No changes would take place without detailed
consultation with connecting coach operators to ensure that their
services would be adjusted to suit.
Caledonian MacBrayne welcomes the opportunity, now that the new contract
has been signed, to consider such requests from communities in order to
continue to improve timetables where possible.
Source:
CalMac (external link,
new window) |
| |
|
| 17/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Linnhe departed Campbeltown today, heading
round the Mull of Kintyre and North to Craignure this evening to spend
the night then presumably onto Barra.
UPDATE:
Loch Tarbert is to relieve Loch Bhrusda early in 2008.
Loch Linnhe was not due to go to Barra at all this winter, as she
can only carry 12 cars and they ideally need an 18-car vessel. She's
also no longer due to relieve at Raasay. It is now expected that Loch
Riddon will be doing that once she is able to get away from Iona
relief. It is therefore thought that Loch Linnhe is on her way to
cover the Loch Bhrusda and allow her away either for maintenance
or to cover on the Sound of Harris.
Fionnphort - Iona (Loch Riddon):
UPDATE 1000:
May be liable to disruption / delays due to adverse weather.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Loch Alainn and Loch Dunvegan are due to change
places tomorrow on the Kyles of Bute crossing. The later returning from
her annual overhaul.
Loch Alainn will then go to spend the next 10 days or so
on the Largs - Cumbrae run. Loch Shira will go to the wires for
repairs.
Saturn and Juno continue to lie at Rosneath jetty.
Saturn in a reserve mode for Clyde emergencies and Juno lied
up awaiting her inevitable future.
Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian Isles):
May be liable to disruption / delays due to adverse weather. |
Loch Alainn's Novel Hose Reel
Saturn & Juno at Rosneath |
| |
|
| 16/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Loch Linnhe appeared at Rothesay, Bute last night and spend the
morning receiving minor repairs to her ramps via welding. She then
departed again for an overnight berth at Campbeltown. |
Loch Linnhe at Rothesay Today |
| |
|
| 15/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Loch Dunvegan is now moored at the Wires in Gourock awaiting her
return to service after her overhaul. She left JWD around 1345 and
reached Gourock about half an hour later. |
Loch Dunvegan at Gourock Today |
| |
|
| 14/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
A Few Shots From Around the Network Recently... |
| |
1) Raasay Back at Tobermory Buoy 2) Clansman,
Craignure 1655 Mon
3) LOTI in Oban 0500 Mon |
| |
|
| 13/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Buie departed Craignure this morning at 0800
heading south for her overhaul. She was meant to spend the night at
Kennacraig but she is now at Gigha. She will head round the Mull of
Kintyre tomorrow morning.
Uig
- Tarbert (Hebrides):
1330 Tarbert - Uig sailing has been delayed by 30
minutes due to an earlier delay
Oban
- Craignure (Lord of the Isles):
SoC LIVE UPDATE 1300:
Lord of the Isles is currently running 20min late due to high
winds.
CLYDE:
It appears that one of
Hebridean Isles lifeboats has made the long road trip back from
Aberdeen to the Clyde. The vessel is currently undergoing her annual
overhaul in the North Eastern port and left Islay with it onboard. The
fast recovery craft was sighted on the back of a trailer heading down
the main road through Gourock towards CalMac HQ at the Pier.
RATHLIN FERRIES:
Ballycastle - Rathlin (Canna):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been
cancelled:
1500 ex Rathlin - Ballycastle
1600 ex Ballycastle - Rathlin
COMPANY NEWS:
HOPES GROW FOR FERRY SERVICE TO OUTER ISLES
Hopes are high that the ferry link between Mallaig and Lochboisdale
could be renewed after a lapse of over thirty years. A new steering
group including representatives of both Mallaig and Uist is at present
being set up to push for the service to Lochboisdale in South Uist.
Residents of Uist as well as Lochaber are very much in favour of the
re-establishment of the route, which would cut travelling time
considerably. The steering group will consist of MSPs and MPs, Community
Councillors, Transport Executives and representatives amongst others.
Fergus Ewing MSP has already had a positive meeting with Caledonian
MacBrayne at the beginning of the month and the group have now arranged
to talk to Scottish Minister for Transport, Stewart Stevenson, before
the end of the month.
They are still researching facts and figures in an attempt to find out
why the service was not included in the new contract awarded to CalMac
earlier this year, when the communities on both sides of the water have
made their desires for the service known. The link would save up to
three hours travelling time. The route from Oban takes over 5 hours and
from Mallaig it would last just over 2 hours. The extra road time from
Glasgow is only 30 minutes or so and the improvements intended for the
A830, the A82 and at Crianlarich will make it an easier journey.
Source:
Road to the Isles Online (external link,
new window) |
| |
|
| 12/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Riddon arrived at Fionnphort at 1025 this morning allowing
the regular vessel Loch Buie to make for Ardmaleish and her
annual overhaul. Loch Buie fuelled then left at 1115 heading north.
She is spending tonight at Craignure before heading south for the Clyde
tomorrow.
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull vacated JWD sometime mid morning today and lay off of
Greenock Esplanade for a while. Once the Loch Dunvegan had
vacated gravel Dry Dock and berthed in the JWD, the Isle of Mull entered
dry-dock
at 1250 / 1300.
Saturn departed the Wires (Gourock HQ) at
1230 for Rosneath, with Jupiter duly restored to service on the
Gourock - Dunoon roster after repairs. |
SoC
LIVE
Loch Buie & Riddon
Changing at Fionnphort 1030 |
| |
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Aberdeen - Hatston - Lerwick
(Hjaltland, Hrossey):
Sailings delayed.
Hjaltland departed Kirkwall
at 0045 and arrived in Lerwick at 0725.
The next scheduled departure from Kirkwall will be the 2345 sailing to
Aberdeen on Wednesday 14 November. |
| |
|
| 11/11/07 |
Hebridean Isles passed through
the Pentland Firth en route to Aberdeen at 0740 this morning. She is expected at
Aberdeen c1600 this afternoon to commence her annual overhaul.
UPDATE 1640:
After loading the pilot
Hebridean Isles was in Aberdeen Harbour by 1630.
WESTERN ISLES:
Kennacraig
- Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Isle of Arran):
Additional 1800 sailings on Monday 12 &19th
November and Thursday 15 & 22nd November from Kennacraig and also additional 0415
sailings on Tuesday 13 & 20th November & Friday 16 & 23rd November from Port Ellen.
Due to the ongoing pier work at Port Askaig all 1800 sailings from
Kennacraig will operate to Port Ellen.
CLYDE:
Isle of Mull passed both the Island of Bute and her
fleet mate Bute at 0815 this morning inbound for
Greenock to commence her annual overhaul. Lord of the Isles
is now performing her sailings out of Oban.
SoC LIVE UPDATE 0925:
Isle of Mull has just arrived at Gourock HQ after
sailing directly from Oban overnight.
Later in the morning she deployed her side cute and fast rescue craft
for testing purposes.
|
| |
A Few Shots of Various Movements Around the
Clyde Today
1) Jupiter & Saturn at Gourock 2) Isle of Mull Freshly
Arrived in JWD
3) Coruisk and IoM in JWD |
| |
TERMINALS:
Kennacraig:
UPDATE on 04/11/07 News Report.
Following the landslip on the A83 between Arrochar and Cairndow at
Rest and be Thankful (Marked RED on
map), the road has now been cleared in one direction and is open to
traffic. It is however traffic lighted and single carriageway so
passengers heading for Islay still need to take a little extra time to
reach the terminal. |
| |
|
| 10/11/07 |
As part of the Island class
overhaul it appears the car decks are being sprayed and coated with
a non slip surface as found on some of the larger fleet's passenger
decks. Loch Riddon is the latest example of this safety initiative.
WESTERN ISLES:
Hebridean Isles
departed Kennacraig this Morning bound for Aberdeen her ETA at the
Eastern port is 1600 on Sunday 11th November.
Isle of Arran has taken up the Hebridean
Isles roster for the Islay Run.
Lord of the Isles
is due to relieve Isle of Mull at 1600 on Saturday.
Lord of the Isles will take the 1600 to Craignure
while Isle of Mull will then move to Craignure
until 2200 before leaving for the Clyde. Her ETA for Gourock is
currently 0900 Sunday.
Kennacraig
- Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Isle of Arran):
SERVICE REMINDER:
1720 Monday ex Kennacraig - Port Askaig
0700 Tuesday ex Port Askaig - Kennacraig
These sailings will operate to and from Port Ellen until further
notice due to the ongoing Pier Work at Port Askaig.
|
| |
CLYDE:
SoC
LIVE UPDATE 1315:
Loch Alainn is now in Rothesay Bay and beginning to
make her way to Rhubodach after repairs to free a trapped object at
Ardmaleish boat yard.
SoC LIVE
UPDATE 1415:
Loch Riddon is now leaving Rhubodach after swapping
over with Loch Alainn and heading out through the
narrows possibly for Lochranza or Campbeltown.
|
Loch Alainn & Riddon
Changing at Bute Today |
| |
Gourock
- Dunoon (Jupiter, AliCat, Relief:
Saturn):
UPDATE 0845:
Vehicle sailings cancelled
for today due to technical reasons.
Jupiter left Gourock on her first roistered sailing to Dunoon
at 0650 but suffered problems en-route and returned light to Gourock
at 0800 after berthing at Dunoon.
A passenger only service
will be resumed on arrival of the AliCat.
UPDATE 1000:
AliCat has now arrived and
as a result the service is currently operating as passenger only.
Jupiter's crew have secured her alongside CalMac HQ and have
journeyed across to Rosneath (presumibly on the Kilcreggan ferry) to
make ready Saturn. Saturn then left Rosneath at
1155 and would appear to be going to replace her older fleet mate.
UPDATE 1230:
AliCat performed the 1020, 1120 and the 1220 Gourock -
Dunoon passenger only.
UPDATE 1300:
Saturn appears to
be on station now as of 1230 to provide vehicle traffic with a
crossing. She left Gourock at c1325 en route for Dunoon.
Normal service resumed.
|
| |
|
| 09/11/07 |
All passenger sailing are now back on schedule after yesterdays
cancelations due to adverse weather.
WESTERN ISLES:
Hebridean Isles arrived in at Port Ellen at 2030 tonight, she
will depart at 0415 tomorrow bound for Kennacraig. She will then lye at
Kennacraig until she departs for dry dock.
Isle of Arran will depart Kennacraig at 0700 bound for Port
Ellen, she will then commence the winter Hebridean Isles roster.
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
Tonight's sailing may be cancelled
due to adverse weather in the
Minch.
CLYDE:
Loch Alainn departed Gourock at 0900 bound for Ardmaleish
boat yard where she will undergo her annual overhaul. She had to wait for about
an hour outside while the Corran Ferry Corran made ready
for her departure.
Lord of the Isles is still in James Watt Dock this morning at
1145 after her overhaul. It is expected she will leave tonight at the
latest and journey direct to Oban to relieve the Isle of Mull.
UPDATE 1600:
Lord of the Isles departed JWD around 1400 and was noted passing
Wemyss Bay at 1500 heading south. She is now passing Brodick on Arran
with a eta to Oban of 0200 tomorrow.
|
| |
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
All passenger sailing are now back on schedule after yesterdays
cancelations due to adverse weather.
Aberdeen - Hatston - Lerwick
Freight (Hascosay, Clare):
Hascosay arrived in Aberdeen at 0428 yesterday morning, her
estimated time of Departure is 0900 this morning with an ETA in Lerwick
of 2200 this evening. Loading was commenced last night in anticipation
of this departure. Clare arrived in Lerwick at 0810 yesterday and
has a estimated time of departure of 0700 to 0800 hours this morning
dependant on ongoing weather conditions. Loading was due to commence
yesterday afternoon in anticipation of this departure. |
Hamnavoe Arriving in a Slightly Calmer
Stromness
1045 This Morning |
| |
|
| 08/11/07 |
Due to gale force winds resulting in adverse weather conditions on the
West Coast and in the Northern Isles, most of today's sailings have been
disrupted or cancelled.
Main List Updated at 1000, further updates as
annotated.
WESTERN ISLES:
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
All sailings cancelled today
due to adverse weather in the
Minch.
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
All sailings cancelled today
due to adverse weather in the
Minch.
Berneray - Leverburgh (Loch Portain):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been
cancelled:
0800 ex Berneray - Leverburgh
0920 ex Leverburgh to Berneray
Will review afternoon sailings at 1300 today.
UPDATE 1230:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions all sailings have been
cancelled today.
Barra - Eriskay (Loch Bhrusda):
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been
cancelled:
0715 ex Barra - Eriskay
0820 ex Eriskay - Barra
0925 ex Barra - Eriskay
1030 ex Eriskay - Barra
The next review for this service will take place at approx 1200.
UPDATE 1200:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions the following sailings have
been cancelled:
1230 ex Barra - Eriskay
1410 ex Eriskay - Barra
UPDATE 1530:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions all sailings have been
cancelled today.
Mallaig - Armadale (Lochnevis):
This service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions,
the situation will be reviewed at 1400.
UPDATE 1400:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions the following sailings have
been cancelled:
1600 ex Mallaig - Armadale
Mallaig - Eigg - Muck - Rum - Canna
(Lochnevis):
All sailings cancelled today
due to adverse weather.
Tobermory - Kilchoan (Raasay):
Cancelled due to adverse weather, update due at 1500.
UPDATE 1530:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions all sailings have been
cancelled today.
Lochaline - Fishnish (Loch Fyne):
Disrupted / delayed due to adverse weather.
The next attempt will be at 1045 ex Lochaline and 1110 ex Fishnish.
Fionnphort - Iona (Loch Buie):
This service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions,
the situation will be reviewed at 1200.
Oban - Craignure (Isle of Mull):
Isle of Mull is currently berthed at Craignure.
Due to adverse weather conditions the following sailings have been
cancelled:
1100 ex Craignure - Oban
1200 ex Oban - Craignure
The situation will be reviewed at 1230.
UPDATE 1400:
Due to continuing adverse weather conditions the following sailings have
been cancelled:
1300 ex Craignure - Oban
1400 ex Oban - Craignure
The situation will be reviewed at 1430 for a possible departure from
Craignure at 1500.
UPDATE 1530:
Isle of Mull departed Craignure bound for Oban at 1525 and is
currently en route for the mainland. |
| |
Kennacraig - Port Ellen / Port Askaig (Hebridean
Isles, Isle of Arran):
Hebridean Isles arrived at Port Ellen this morning at 0945, 25mins
late due to adverse weather. She departed at 0955.
Isle of Arran departed Port Ellen this afternoon at 1420 due to
adverse weather.
Hebridean Isles diverted her 1300 sailing to Port Ellen this afternoon
due to adverse weather plus the swell in the sound.
|
Hebridean Isles Departing
a Windy Port Ellen Today |
| |
Tayinloan - Gigha (Loch Ranza):
UPDATE 1420:
Due to adverse weather conditions Loch Ranza departed Gigha at
1405 if she is able to land at Tayinloan she will then depart Tayinloan
again at 1430 back to Gigha where the will tie up for the remainder of
today.
Cancelled sailings:
1500 ex Tayinloan - Gigha
1530 ex Gigha - Tayinloan
1635 ex Tayinloan - Gigha
1705 ex Gigha - Tayinloan
1735 ex Tayinloan - Gigha
Normal Service will resume as per timetable tomorrow, weather
permitting.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Lord of the Isles is due to depart James Watt Dock, Greenock
tomorrow morning at c1100 (weather dependant).
She is expected to sail direct to Oban with no calls at company HQ in
Gourock as is the usual fro such overhaul completions.
Ardrossan - Brodick (Caledonian Isles):
This service is currently suspended due to adverse weather conditions,
the situation will be reviewed at 1500.
UPDATE 1330:
There will be a 1515 sailing from Ardrossan to Brodick.
The 1640 departure from Brodick and the remainder of the sailings today
may be subject to disruption or cancellations due to adverse weather
conditions.
UPDATE 1500:
Crew at Ardrossan are about to attempt to fit four sailings of bookings
on to one boat for a 1515 departure.
Bookings have now closed for tomorrow suggesting that the weather is not
particularly optimistic for tomorrow. Sailings are also presumably
backlogged from today.
Wemyss Bay - Rothesay (Bute, Argyle):
Most sailings today have been liable to slight disruption / delays due to adverse weather.
Largs - Cumbrae (Loch Shira, Loch):
UPDATE 1200:
May be liable to disruption / delays due to adverse weather.
RATHLIN FERRIES:
Ballycastle - Rathlin (Canna):
All sailings cancelled today
due to adverse weather.
|
Caledonian Isles Made Fast At Ardrossan Today
SoC
Live
Ferry Traffic at 1600 in Brodick awaiting
the Caly Isles
Loch Shira Battling on Today |
| |
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Kirkwall (Hatston) - Lerwick
(Hjaltland):
Due to severe weather conditions the 2345 sailing has been cancelled.
Further sailings are under review.
Aberdeen - Hatston - Lerwick
(Hjaltland):
Hjaltland arrived in Aberdeen at 0645 this morning.
Due to severe weather conditions the 1700 sailing has been cancelled.
Further sailings are under review.
Lerwick - Hatston - Aberdeen (Hrossey):
Hrossey arrived in Lerwick at 0730 this morning.
Due to severe weather conditions the 1900 sailing has been cancelled.
Further sailings are under review.
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe is currently berthed in Stromness.
All sailings cancelled today
due to adverse weather.
PAST FLEET NEWS:
On this day in 2005, Craignure gangway was damaged last night
resulting in passengers boarding / alighting via the car deck ramps on
the Oban - Craignure crossing. And in 2003, it was reported in
today's Herald that CalMac are to abolish the position of Purser on
their vessels. |
| |
|
| 07/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Ullapool - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis):
UPDATE 1100:
There is the possibility off a disruption to service tomorrow
due to adverse weather predicted in the
Minch.
Ullapool - Stornoway Freight (Muirneag):
UPDATE 1100:
Freight service from Stornoway - Ullapool & return on 07/11/2007 has been
cancelled due to adverse weather.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Loch Riddon was back on her original route at Colintraive today covering for Loch Alainn.
Loch Alainn has suffered a tangled rope or similar around her
machinery and is currently at Gourock for repairs. |
Loch Riddon at Rhubodach Today |
| |
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Early sailings disrupted due to weather, see yesterdays news for details.
UPDATE 0930:
Route running to schedule
Hamnavoe is
currently berthed in Stromness.
The next scheduled sailing is due to depart Stromness at 1100 to arrive
in Scrabster at 1230. |
| |
|
| 06/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Raasay sailed today from Port Askaig at 1235 bound for Tobermory
and is due to arrive near 1930 tonight. She has completed her brief
charter for the Eilean Dhiura at Jura. (See Yesterdays
News)
NORTHLINK FERRIES:
Scrabster - Stromness (Hamnavoe):
Hamnavoe departed Scrabster at 1930 and is expected to arrive in
Stromness at 2100 this evening.
Due to adverse weather conditions and in the interest of passenger
safety and comfort, the following sailings have been cancelled on
Wednesday 7th November (tomorrow):
0630 ex Stromness - Scrabster
0845 ex Scrabster - Stromness
The following sailings are under review and a decision will be made at
0800:
1100 ex Stromness - Scrabster
1315 ex Scrabster - Stromness
Vehicle and Passenger check-in still opens 90 minutes prior to departure
and closes 30 minutes prior to departure. |
| |
|
| 05/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Raasay arrived at Port Askaig at 1300 today
for a brief charter to take up the Port Askaig - Jura
ferry run for the regular Council owned vessel Eilean
Dhiura. The regular ferry having been off since Saturday with
bow ramp hydraulic issues.
Oban - Colonsay - Oban (Isle of
Mull):
Sailing cancelled for today due to adverse weather.
The next sailing from Oban - Colonsay - Oban will be Wednesday 07/11/07
at 1200. |
Raasay at Jura Today |
| |
|
| 04/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Loch Linnhe left Largs this morning about 0645 heading north.
Loch Riddon is currently Lying at Rothesay having finished her
overhaul. She is due to head north to Iona and relive Loch Buie
for her annual overhaul towards the end of next week.
Loch Dunvegan is in currently receiving shot blasting to her
underside. She will be out for the arrival of Isle of Mull.
WESTERN ISLES:
Raasay is now not heading directly for overhaul / repairs at
Corpach. She is to spend the next two weeks relieving the Islay - Jura
council owned ferry.
Loch Buie is due for her annual overhaul at Ardmaleish on the
12th of November.
|
| |
New Islay Ferry Update
A few more details on the new build due in spring 2011.
There is to be an
outside viewing area overlooking the bow accessed from the upper deck
restaurant. The main deck forward is crew accommodation etc.
There will be outside decks
overlooking car deck - similar to Argyle and Bute and upstairs (which from
the diagram look to be level with bridge, so obviously it will not go all
the way forward.)
|
New Islay Ferry Profile |
| |
TERMINALS:
Kennacraig:
Following the landslip on the A83 between Arrochar and Cairndow at
Rest and be Thankful (Marked RED on
map) on Sunday 28th October engineers from Transerve Scotland
said on Friday that the road would remain closed for the foreseeable
future. Road engineers are on site but it is too dangerous to work on
and bad weather is making the situation worse. Transerve Scotland has
staff on site but is unable to begin work to re-open the road.
Passengers who are travelling to Kennacraig for the Caledonian MacBrayne
ferry service to Islay should allow up to forty minutes extra travelling
time as the diversion involves a 25-mile loop detour.
Suggested Option 1: Take the A82 north to Crianlarich and then head up
for Tyndrum. Head west to Dalmally on the A85 and then take the A813
south to Inveraray where drivers will gain access to the A83.
Suggested Option 1: Take the CalMac ferry from Gourock to Dunoon and
head north on the A815 through Strachur or head for Portavadie and take
the CalMac ferry to Tarbert via the B836, A886 and A8003 through
Tighnabruaich. |
 |
| |
Source: The Herald, 02/11/07
| Additional Information:
Duncan Wilson |
Map: Ships of CalMac
|
| |
PAST FLEET NEWS:
Isle of Arran Making Headway to Islay in a Winter Storm. February This
Year |
| |
|
| 03/11/07 |
CLYDE:
Isle of Cumbrae left Rosneath at lunchtime and sailed to Largs
arriving at about 1600 where she briefly lay at the slip until Loch
Shira came in. She collected a couple of crew cars and lay on the
outside the Loch Linnhe on the outside of the pier until about
1615 before heading south. She's due to relieve the Raasay which
possibly requires repairs.
Loch Linnhe called in at Rhubodach at around 1400 prior to
crossing over to Largs. She dropped off crew cars while Loch Alainn
was over at Colintraive. |
Two Lochs & IoC at Largs Today |
| |
Lord of the Isles in James Watt Dock Today
Completing Her Overhaul
1) Welders Working on Stern 2) Coruisk Tied up Astern
3) Bow Complete |
| |
|
| 02/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Linnhe went from Craignure
to Oban this morning for fuel and is now headed down towards Islay -
hopefully passing via Port Askaig but may go down the Sound of Jura.
CLYDE:
Gourock - Dunoon (AliCat, Jupiter):
Currently disrupted / delayed due to volume of vehicle traffic on
service.
COMPANY NEWS:
Caledonian MacBrayne Welcomes New Ferry for Islay...
Ferry operator
Caledonian MacBrayne has welcomed the confirmation today (Friday, November 2,
2007) by asset owning company Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd that a new ferry
will become available on the routes serving Islay from the mainland within four
years.
The new ship, which will cost a total of £24.5 million will be built by
the Remontowa yard in Gdansk, Poland, and delivery is expected in
spring, 2011. The Remontowa yard has already completed two highly
successful ferries operated by CalMac on the route from Wemyss Bay to
Rothesay, MV Argyle and MV Bute.
CalMac’s Managing Director, Lawrie Sinclair said: “The new ship will
enable CalMac to provide the additional capacity on the routes from
Kennacraig to Islay which is required to meet the demand of a booming
economy and to offer improved services to local residents, businesses
and tourists.
CalMac has consulted extensively with the local community to establish
the best level and type of service to be offered. It was very important
that we took every opportunity to consult and explain the type of vessel
we had in mind and the facilities she will have. The community became
involved in the process of achieving the desired outcome at an early
stage, and we are confident that we will be able to operate a very high
level of service with the new vessel, along with another ship, giving
the island the level of service it needs.”
The ship will be 89.90m long and capable of 16.5 knots. She will be a
modern Ro-Ro Euro Class B passenger vessel designed to carry 550
passengers, up to 88 cars, as well as coaches, cars and commercial
vehicles. The vessel will also be capable of carrying dangerous goods.
Passengers will be accommodated on two well-appointed decks, with access
gained at the lower of the two from an enclosed passenger gangway. and
modern, comfortable facilities. The design and quality of the passenger
accommodation will match the new standards set by the two ships
previously built at the Remontowa yard and according to CalMac will
provide Islay with a ship to match the islanders’ aspirations. There
will be two lifts, one on each side of the ship, to all decks. The ship
will also be built in line with DPTAC guidance on facilities for
customers whose mobility is impaired. |
| |
|
| 01/11/07 |
WESTERN ISLES:
Loch Linnhe changed over with Raasay today.
|
| |
CLYDE:
Isle of Cumbrae arrived at Rosneath jetty this morning.
Loch Alainn is now in service on the Colintraive - Rhubodach
route after departing Campbeltown c0700 having sailed via the
Kilbrannan Sound to Bute. She changed over with Loch Dunvegan
at 1130 at Rhubodach after she berthed at Colintraive briefly this
morning. The
latter is now berthed at the wires in Gourock next to Coruisk.
UPDATE:
Loch Dunvegan is now at James watt Dock getting ready for her
annual
overhaul. |
Two Lochs at Rhubodach Today |
| |
MAJOR VESSEL OVERHAUL PLAN:
An update on the major units overhaul plan so far...
| VESSEL |
VESSEL TO
COVER |
DOCK YARD |
ENTER DOCK |
EXIT DOCK |
| Lord of the Isles |
N/A |
Garvel (Clyde) |
22/10/07 |
08/11/07 |
| Hebridean Isles |
Isle of Arran |
Aberdeen |
12/11/07 |
22/11/07 |
| Isle of Mull |
Lord of the Isles |
Garvel (Clyde) |
12/11/07 |
22/11/07 |
| Lochnevis |
Ullin of Staffa |
Garvel (Clyde) |
16/10/07 |
30/10/07 |
| Caledonian Isles |
Isle of Mull |
Garvel (Clyde) TBC |
26/11/07 |
13/12/07 |
| Isle of Lewis |
Clansman |
Liverpool (Birkenhead) TBC |
07/01/08 |
24/01/08 |
| Clansman |
N/A |
Fergusons (Clyde) TBC* |
28/01/08 |
14/02/08 |
| Hebrides |
Clansman |
? |
25/02/08 |
13/03/08 |
| Isle of Arran |
N/A |
? |
28/01/08 |
14/02/08 |
* Also in for fuel conversion similar to
Hebrides
TBC - To Be Confirmed |
PAST FLEET NEWS:
On this day in 2003, much favoured CalMac vessel Pioneer made
her final trip round the Small isles leaving her name tagged on the
rocks as a permanent reminder to her visits there.
OTHER NEWS:
New Plane Planned For Beach Strip (external link, opens in new
window) |
| |
|
Past News Logs: |
 Click
HERE to see the past fleet news logs |
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