Caledonian MacBrayne ( CalMac ) operates ferry services connecting Scotland's west coast islands and peninsulas with the mainland. The operator runs routes to destinations including Arran, Mull, Islay, Skye and Bute, carrying passengers, vehicles and essential supplies throughout the year. Serving more than 50 ports and harbours, CalMac is a key part of Scotland's transport network and provides lifeline ferry connections for many island communities. Read the latest CalMac news, ferry service updates, disruption alerts, route information, analysis and interviews from across Scotland.
Latest CalMac news
As reported by The National, here is a selection of the latest CalMac news stories.
Read more
Costs rise by around £20m for new Turkish-built CalMac ferries Rhoda Meek: Resilience fund is too flawed to mitigate ongoing ferry disasters Ferguson Marine ferries have taken an 'obscene amount of time', Stephen Flynn admits
Who owns CalMac?
CalMac operates services on behalf of the Scottish Government. The ferries themselves are owned by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), while CalMac is responsible for running passenger and vehicle services across Scotland's west coast ferry network.
CalMac tickets for young people
The Scottish Government operates a concessionary ferry travel scheme which allows eligible young people living on Scotland's islands to make selected journeys free of charge.
Eligible residents in Orkney, Shetland, the Outer Hebrides, islands in North Ayrshire, Argyll and Bute and Highland Council areas aged 16–21 (with some support for full‑time volunteers up to 25) can make four single or two return trips to the mainland for free each year.
In addition, island residents under 22 can travel free as foot passengers on inter‑island ferry services within their own local authority area in Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides.
Find out more about how to benefit from the scheme here .
Glen Sannox
MV Glen Sannox entered passenger service in January 2025 following years of delays during construction. The vessel now operates on the Arran route and remains one of the most talked-about ferries in Scotland's network.
You can read about our reporter's experience on one of its first sailings here .
Cancelling CalMac ferry bookings
People can cancel their CalMac ferry bookings more than 24 hours before sailing, subject to an administration fee (currently £10), by contacting the company’s Customer Engagement Centre.
CalMac tickets and food menu
The ferry operator has a wide range of tickets and food options. CalMac offers a range of passenger, vehicle and concessionary fares across its network. Adults aged 16 and over require a ticket, while children aged five to 15 travel at reduced fares.
Many vessels also feature onboard catering, with options including hot meals, snacks, sandwiches, pizzas and children's meals.
CalMac service status and timetable
CalMac ferry customers can check the timetable and status of their service online or on X, @CalMac_Updates.
