THE first of four new CalMac ferries being built in Turkey is to be delivered four months late amid supply chain issues.
The ferry — MV Isle of Islay — had been expected to be delivered in mid October, before it was then delayed until the end of 2024. However, it is now estimated to be handed over in February 2025.
The Cemre Marin Endustri shipyard has cited global supply chain difficulties which has affected equipment and parts deliveries.
It comes as operator CalMac warned travellers of a "inevitable" disruption this winter after announcing that one of its largest vessels will remain out of action until “at least” mid-November.
The remaining three ferries being built in Turkey also now face delays.
MV Loch Indaal will now be delivered to serve the Kennacraig-Islay route between April and June 2025.
MV Lochmor won't be ready until July to September 2025. It will sail on the Uig-Tarbert and Lochmaddy route,
MV Claymore has then been pushed back to between October and December 2025. It will serve also Uig and Tarbert and Lochmaddy.
An Islay Community Council Ferry Committee (ICCFC) spokesperson told the Oban Times: "ICCFC has already raised the alarm that a single vessel service with Finlaggan on her own for most of the winter is not adequate in relation to anticipated demand.
"CalMac has said it is reviewing possibilities.
"There now has to be further discussion with CalMac regarding their vessel deployment play for March 9 to March 27 when Finlaggan is due for its annual overhaul.
"Currently, the Isle of Arran is allocated to the Islay route on her own and clearly would be totally inadequate unless working with either the new vessel or a reasonable-sized substitute."
