CalMac services in 'much better place' as third ferry to return after 'unplanned technical issues'

CalMac services are in a “much better place” with its third major vessel due to return following “unplanned technical issues”.

MV Lord of the Isle, which operates between Oban and Mull, is scheduled to start carrying passengers again “early next week” after it suffered an engine issue.

Last weekend, the situation was described as “critical”, with every island facing disruption as four vessels were undergoing scheduled maintenance and four others were facing a range of unplanned technical problems.

At the beginning of the week, CalMac welcomed the newest member of its fleet, MV Isle of Islay, after a few snagging issues.

The MV Glen Sannox also re-entered service.

However, CEO Duncan Mackinson has warned passengers that Storm Dave could disrupt various routes due to adverse weather conditions.

He said: “We recognise that, though we’re getting to a much better place, services in parts of the network are below what was planned and there’s a named storm on the way over Easter weekend. All our efforts are on stabilising things, and we expect two vessels back from annual overhaul next week.

“We have detailed information on our website for customers travelling over Easter weekend. I’d urge anyone booked or looking to travel to refer to our channels for the most up-to-date information on their route.”