Behind the scenes: What we thought of Glen Sannox as ferry finally set sail on Arran route

This will allow for a significant increase in capacity on the Arran route which has been served by two smaller vessels while the island’s regular ship, MV Caledonian Isles, is away for repairs.

CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison, who was on the first scheduled sailing, said: “As the first major new vessel built to serve Arran in more than three decades, MV Glen Sannox will see the island benefit from increased capacity and a more robust service.

“We hope many, many people will enjoy travelling on her to experience everything our islands have to offer.

“Since her handover in mid-November, crew and colleagues across CalMac have pulled out all the stops to get her into service on a tight schedule.

“This is a massive milestone for us and for the people of Arran. MV Glen Sannox’s entry into service marks the start of an exciting period which will see six major new vessels enter our service, effectively modernising half of our major vessel fleet.”

While the sailings on Monday were the first official scheduled sailings, Arran residents and travellers were pleasantly surprised to see MV Glen Sannox operating the 12.45pm from Troon and the 2.35pm from Brodick in place of MV Alfred on Sunday.

Away from the glare of the media, CalMac completed a trial run the day before its scheduled starting date, allowing 154 surprised foot passengers, 53 cars and two commercial vehicles to be the first foot passengers, cars and heavy goods vehicles to sail on the vessel.

Mr Mackison explained the reason for the trial run: “Operating a test run with MV Glen Sannox gave the crew a fantastic opportunity to stress test the vessel and ensure the experience people have aboard is optimal before she formally enters service.

“A massive effort has gone into getting MV Glen Sannox to this stage and everyone at CalMac is excited to have her in the fleet and serving Arran.”

MV Glen Sannox is the first of six new major and seven small vessels being built over the ensuing years to serve Scotland’s west coast ferry network. Among them is the MV Glen Rosa - MV Glen Sannox’s sister ship - which is currently being built at the Ferguson Marine shipyard with an expected delivery date of September this year.

MV Glen Rosa has been earmarked for the Arran route and is widely expected to replace MV Caledonian Isles which is due to return to service in March this year after more than a year of repairs.