Caledonian Isles’ return delayed until end of summer season

Engineers had hoped they would not have to remove the main engines, however, the main engines will need to be lifted off their bedplates to allow access to renew the tank top steel directly below the sump.

The removal of the engines, along with having to work systematically while supporting the entire structure, means the work is time consuming and will continue until at least the end of August.

CalMac’s interim chief executive officer Duncan Mackison said: “MV Caledonian Isles is now expected to return

to service by the end of August. In the last week, we have been advised that the repairs will take significantly longer than anticipated.

“We know this news is disappointing, particularly for people on Arran, which is normally served by the vessel. We issued a revised summer timetable when we knew MV Caledonian Isles would be unavailable for a significant period of time. That timetable will remain in place until she is ready to return, though we will continue to explore what we can do to support the service on that route.

“The scope of work provided in February was indicative and subject to change based on a full analysis of the vessel’s repair needs. The nature of the vessel’s structure is such that this analysis has been ongoing alongside repairs. This is a highly complex repair effort where we have to be mindful of the vessel’s age and condition.

“As part of the works, the auxiliary engines and their bedplates were removed from the vessel to allow access to the double bottom water ballast tank tops. The structure below the main engines is being supported using hydraulic jacks, whilst the steel around these engines is renewed. The main engines will need to be lifted off their bedplates to allow access under the engines for renewal of the tank top steel directly below the sump.

“With our partners, we exhausted every possible avenue to avoid removing the engines, but this is the only way to complete the works to the standard required.

“Our aim is to get the vessel back into service as quickly as possible, and it is in that spirit that we are in regular contact with the dry dock operator, which is working around the clock to complete these repairs at speed. We will continue to liaise with the Arran Ferry Committee and other local stakeholders on the vessel’s progress.”

Arran Ferry Committee has been in discussions with CalMac’s fleet manager and its major vessel head about capacity concerns on the Arran route and has said it will keep pushing CalMac and Transport Scotland for additional capacity over the summer season.