CalMac in 'better place' as third repaired ferry returns to service

Scotland’s ferry situation is showing signs of improvement as Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) prepares to bring a third significant vessel back into operation. The MV Lord of the Isles, which services the Oban to Mull route, had been out of commission due to an engine failure but is now ready to resume sailing. This update offers some relief after a difficult period where the ferry network was severely impacted by multiple vessel breakdowns and scheduled maintenance.

Last weekend proved particularly challenging for CalMac, as issues left four ferries sidelined for repairs while another four were undergoing their annual overhauls. Among the vessels recently returning to service are the MV Glen Sannox, reinstated on the Arran route, and the MV Isle of Islay, the newest addition to the fleet, which had been delayed due to technical problems. Despite these positive developments, CalMac acknowledges that certain services remain below expectations, especially with a named storm forecast to hit the region soon.

In addition to the technical setbacks and maintenance work, the operator is closely monitoring Storm Dave, which is expected to bring blizzards and strong winds across Scotland. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow wind warnings, covering areas such as the west Highlands, Argyll, and the Western Isles. Power company SSEN has anticipated gusts reaching approximately 80mph in some parts, including the Western Isles and Skye, further complicating ferry operations and travel plans during the Easter weekend.

CalMac described the current ferry shortage as “unprecedented,” caused by a combination of technical faults and routine maintenance requirements. To manage the limited availability, vessels have been reallocated across the west coast island routes, with some disrupted services such as the Lochboisdale route being temporarily replaced by combined sailings from Castlebay, Uig, and Lochmaddy. Meanwhile, older vessels like the 49-year-old Isle of Cumbrae have also encountered faults, adding to the operational challenges as the company works toward stabilizing the network

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