ONE of CalMac’s oldest ferries is to be retried in November as the operator looks to “modernise” its ferry fleet.
CalMac said the 39-year-old MV Hebridean Isles if it were to be retained, would need a “significant programme of work” that would keep her out of service for months.
MV Hebridean Isles certification expires on November 21, meaning the ship will be removed from service by that date.
CalMac expect her to exit active service in mid-November, allowing time to travel to a recycling facility before certification expires.
The operator added that given the ferry’s age and general condition, significant works had already been identified for overhaul.
This, along with the requirement for a five-year survey, meant the vessel would have spent a large period in drydock, certainly missing the bulk of the winter timetable.
CalMac said: “The vessel, which is one of the oldest in the CalMac fleet, has served west coast communities with distinction since her maiden voyage in December 1985.
“Affectionally known as the ‘Heb Isles,’ the ship has primarily served Islay in recent years.”
A second vessel, MV Loch Indaal, will serve Islay from early 2025.
Craig Ramsay, CalMac’s fleet management director, said: “MV Hebridean Isles’ planned disposal marks the latest step in a period of significant change for CalMac, which will see the rapid modernisation of our fleet of major vessels by 2026.
"In providing an update on her disposal now, we’re aiming to provide certainty to our communities and customers ahead of winter.
“Vessels become a part of the fabric of the island communities they serve, and CalMac colleagues and islanders, particularly on Islay, will be sorry to see the Heb Isles exit the fleet after a long period of service.
"That’s why we are keen to mark her departure in some form come November.”
Glen Sannox update
Meanwhile, the handover date for Glen Sannox, the long-delayed ferry under construction at Ferguson Marine, has been pushed back once again.
The shipyard says its new official handover date will be September 30, despite last month saying it hoped to deliver the vessel in the week beginning August 19.
The operator said it has identified more areas which need work as it continues to wrestle with problems around the installation of a liquefied natural gas fuel system, something it has been dealing with since last year.
However, Ferguson Marine says the date could be pulled forward if it makes good progress and successfully completes further sea trials.
