Ferry operator CalMac has apologised after a number of cars were left on the quayside, despite there being room on the ferry.
The photograph which caused the furore on Facebook.
They said it was as a result of ‘human error’ after a photo showing a half empty vehicle deck was posted on Facebook leading to considerable anger. And it led to concerns being raised once again about the maximum vehicle carrying capacity being fully utilised on crossings.
Following a particularly busy crossing last weekend, when at least 16 unbooked vehicles were unable to be accommodated on the 11.5am sailing to Ardrossan, an undated photograph raised ire on Facebook as the image showed a large vacant space that could have accommodated a number of vehicles. Despite no further details regarding possible weights or height issues with other vehicles on the sailing, discussions about the difficulties of obtaining a booking within two weeks also contributed to a fierce discussion on the forum. While some made the assertion that the ferry was not being fully utilised to the detriment of customer convenience, others suggested that the image might be misleading as other factors such as load line, weight and stability were not being taken into account.
A CalMac spokesman said: ‘We apologise for vehicles that were left behind on this particular sailing. This was due to a breakdown in communication among staff managing boarding operations. Human error does occur from time to time and we are sorry for the inconvenience this caused passengers who had their journey disrupted.’