CALMAC could be starting its busy summer season without two major vessels, causing disruption across its ferry network, writes Sandy Neil.
The MV Clansman is taking longer to fix, while the MV Hebrides is due for dry dock, just as the ferry operator’s ageing fleet is ‘stretched to its full capacity’.
A CalMac spokesman explained: ‘Complications during the repair of the MV Clansman’s propulsion system means there is a possibility we will be operating for a period of time without two major vessels. The MV Hebrides is due for dry dock. However, we are exploring ways to postpone this until the MV Clansman has resumed service. We are working extremely hard to get the Clansman back in service as quickly as possible. ‘In the meantime, we are developing potential options to continue to provide lifeline services to the communities we support.’