Islay's Hebridean Isles Ferry Damaged

Passengers on the Hebridean Isles due to leave from Kennacraig on Saturday afternoon (14 July) found themselves being asked to transfer to the Isle of Arran after damage to pins on the Hebridean Isles loading ramp rendered it inoperable. A statement from CalMac attributed this to suspected excess weight by lorries being overloaded or due to abnormal loads being carried in recent weeks. This meant lengthy delays on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, before the Hebridean Isles was re-introduced to the route. The ship will now require remedial work, but in the interim will sail using the stern door only and CalMac apologise for any inconvenience. Caledonian MacBrayne emphasised that this is entirely a mechanical problem and there are no corresponding safety issues.

The Hebridean Isles is likely to be withdrawn from service at a convenient time, and the company are currently unsure whether she will require docking or whether repairs can be carried out on site. Further information will be issued as necessary. In the meantime, a portable weighbridge is being taken to Kennacraig for use on the route to check the weight of vehicles.

This story was published with kind permission from The Ileach - Community Newspaper of the year.